How to open tailgate with inoperable latch mechanism?
 

Hello, new member.

I am trying to fix the tailgate mechanism for my daughter's 2008 XC90. When I press the key, there is no sound. I cannot open the tailgate. I think I have removed as much as I can, from the inside, but I can't figure out how to open tailgate.

So, my questions:
1. Can I open the tailgate without removing latch mechanism?
2. How can I determine if the problem is with the latch mechanism or the wiring to it or something else?
3. If I have to replace the latch mechanism, how do I get to the screws on the underside of it?

http://www.richardchinn.com/jpgfiles...teinterior.jpg

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,

Richard

Ok, this might sound silly but, have you tried locking the car pushing the outside release lever/handle towards the front of the car then unlock again and see if it will open. The release handle can stick. Try this and see if it works. Handle all the way closed position with car locked then unlock and open as normal. Good luck.

Hi
Not sure if it helps.
My brothers BMW had a similar problem but had a switch/wiring problem. We were able to use 2 wires off a battery to operate the lock directly on to the lock connector pins with the loom unplugged. Will only work if it is a wiring problem, but not if it is a burnt out or jammed lock.

Iain

Adieu, the problem is not with the cable as a rusted rod would create. I can move the cable freely, but there is no resistance. The problem is with the latch mechanism, not the handle.

IainG, that may work, but I don't know which pins should get power and which should be grounded.

Hi

We only had 4 pins and it was more by luck than knowledge that it worked on first attempt!

Someone might know the pin layout on the Volvo to save trial and error.
We did only use 1 strand of the copper wire to touch the terminal, just in case there was a short,(1 strand will just melt like fuse wire) but it worked

Iain

similar problem with mine-ended up drilling/breaking the cover -from recollection near where the cable enters the latch and prodded inside until the latch opened and replaced-Volvo replacement(genuine) appeared poorly constructed compared to original -hope it lasts!
Good luck

Pull the cylinder above the yellow connector to the left of the rear wiper motor upwards. That yellow connector thing has become dislodged along with the cylinder form the latch handle by the looks of it, so just clip that back in it should work.

Here's my write up of what went wrong, boot stuck shut...

http://www.volvoforums.org.uk/showthread.php?t=245596

That was a good guide rsymes2k. Have bookmarked the thread. Very useful one.
When mine got stuck I have to push that cable inside the lock mechanism to release the latch.
Thank you.