glove box locked shut

[jpliddy]

hi all
i got something out of the glove box today went to put it back found the glove box was locked shut i put my key in and the lock works turned it to unlock but the knob just turns clock wise but door won't drop down to open . any tips on how to get in first time ever in 20 years its done this !!!

[Laird Scooby]

Have you tried turning the key the other way Jim?

[Forrest]

I had exactly the same problem on my 1994 940 last November. In a nutshell, it was this problem.

http://www.stepbystepvolvo.com/glove%20box%20lock.html

The link gives a step-by-step guide with pictures to fixing the fault. You will need a working lock barrel from a breaker car. The repair can be done in minutes if you’re not bothered about being able to lock the glovebox. I have kept my original lock barrel with the intention “one day” of rekeying it.

Tips I can add from my experience.

(1) I still don’t understand the clever methods I found described online to get the glovebox open again in the first place. I looked carefully at how the lock engages on one of my other 940s and then managed to force it open with dinner knives and a screwdriver. Do this when the interior is warm to avoid damage. It’s not far off the putty knife method described in the FAQ. Essentially you need to force the latch on the door down so you can get it past the locking bar.

https://www.volvoclub.org.uk/faq/Int...loveBoxRemoval

(2) An effective temporary repair while you await delivery of your replacement part is to loop a thick rubber band around the locking bar, pass it out through the hole from where you have removed the lock barrel and secure in place with a biro or similar. This stops the door flapping around as you drive and enables you still to use the glovebox.

[Forrest]

PS. Because the blob of pot metal that holds the lock latch in place will be broken when you finally do release the door there is a good chance the latch, spring and possibly the blob of metal will fire into the air. This will be less alarming if you are expecting it. I managed to find all the bits.

[jpliddy]

Originally Posted by Laird Scooby

Have you tried turning the key the other way Jim?

yes tried that

[jpliddy]

thanks forrest
i will delve further
the ignition key works in the lock perfect

[aardvarkash10]

Originally Posted by Forrest

PS. Because the blob of pot metal that holds the lock latch in place will be broken when you finally do release the door there is a good chance the latch, spring and possibly the blob of metal will fire into the air. This will be less alarming if you are expecting it. I managed to find all the bits.

Larfed so hard I almost spilt my beer!

Almost

[Forrest]

Originally Posted by jpliddy

the ignition key works in the lock perfect

I’m afraid this is a red herring. The bit of metal that will have broken off is the bit that actually pulls the plastic latch down when you turn the knob. With that gone even when the lock part is unlocked the knob won’t do anything when you turn it. I know this seems weird because the action feels no different. It will be obvious if/when you dismantle it.

[jpliddy]

hi all
no luck in opening glove box yet !
i have tried prising the door open just enough to get access to the latch but its so tight im causing more damage to the door . i don't want to break the latch completely at the moment .
any further thoughts from you guys much appreciated
any one got photos of the door in open position showing the latch what is not moving

[Laird Scooby]

Worst case scenario Jim, if you remove the trim underneath the glovebox you should be able to see the underside of it.

Two possibilities, one you may be able to find the hinge screws (doubtful, clutching at straws somewhat!) and second, if you have a large holesaw, you could cut a hole in the bottom of the glovebox so you can get your hand in.

Wouldn't work if you have anything that could be easily damaged inside it though.