2002 XC70 Tailgate won't unlock/open

Discussion in 'Volvo C70' started by Craig.Holdsworth, Jan 13, 2007.

  1. Hello all

    2002 XC70. When I got it a few months ago the passenger side (left, I
    am in the UK) rear door central locking wasn't working. Volvo dealer
    said it needed a new lock. I haven't had it fixed yet as it really
    doesn't cause me any problems and I can still lock and unlock it
    manually. Don't think this is anything to do with the problem but just
    in case I thought I'd say...

    BUT, earlier this week my wife borrowed the XC70 and came back saying
    tailgate wouldn't open.

    Thought it might be crap in the boot that got jammed when she closed
    the tailgate but the boot was/is empty and I have had a good look
    around.

    When I pull the handle on the outside of the tailgate I can feel it is
    connected to something (it moves fully with a small amount of
    resistance but isn't opening a lock) so it isn't the rods that have
    come loose. On further inspection the central locking makes no noise in
    the tailgate when I lock or unlock the car. It is a 5 seater so no
    internal release handle or hidden hole for the key to go in next to the
    handle in the tailgate.

    Any ideas of either how I solve the problem or how I can just get the
    door open.

    Have so far had a go at getting the trim off the back door (the bottom
    half of the trim is screwed along the bottom and sides according some
    pics I have found from the Volvo workshop manual) and have pulled the
    top free but that doesn't really help me I don't think. Even if I apply
    more force and get my hand near the lock it is still locked. Is there
    any way to unlock the lock if you can get to it or is it all inside a
    sealed unit?



    Cheers
    Craig
     
    Craig.Holdsworth, Jan 13, 2007
    #1
  2. Craig.Holdsworth

    Shawn Guest

    When you pull the trim apart at the top, look down inside for a white piece
    of plastic. This piece is connected to the lock motor. Slide it toward the
    passenger side (I think, really whatever way it will slide) and you should
    be unlocked.

    I had this same problem and it turned out that the wiring harness leading to
    the hatch had broken wires in it (a common problem from what I am told.)
    The wires were broken where they route thru the hinge mechanism. The wiring
    harness goes along the passenger side (left) hinge. It doesn't take much
    disassembly to get to the wires. A few butt connectors and some heat shrink
    tubing and you'll be back in business.

    Shawn
     
    Shawn, Jan 14, 2007
    #2
  3. Many thanks Shawn - I do hope you are right. I will give it a go
    tomorrow when there is a bit of light.

    Cheers
    C
     
    Craig.Holdsworth, Jan 14, 2007
    #3
  4. Craig.Holdsworth

    C XC70 Guest

    After much grunting and swearing I managed to get the tailgate open -
    many thanks for your help. I will stick a note on here at some point
    pointing to a geocities website with some pics to help other people.

    Now I can open the thing I have had more of a look. It ALWAYS locks
    but sometimes sticks when unlocking and won't unlock with help. I have
    done quite a bit of messing around and the feed to the lock when it is
    not working is strong and healthy and I can hear the motor trying its
    best to unlock the lock so in this case it isn't the wires. Something
    is sticking.

    I have asked a few places for prices for the lock and waiting for a few
    responses. Volvo dealer wants £96.

    I may well mess around with the lock a bit and see if I can get it
    working (it is such a low tech device) before shelling out.

    Many thanks again Shawn
    C
     
    C XC70, Jan 17, 2007
    #4
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