I love my '98 V70 AWD. Best car I've ever owned, and I hope to keep it for some time. However, there is an ongoing, repeated, recurring squeak that I cannot seem to conquer! It's a high-pitched "chirp" coming from the tailgate. I've tried lubricating the rubber bumpers on either side of the tailgate, the hinges, the locking/latch mechanism. Nothing has worked. Oh, and I've tried petroleum lubricants (all-purpose auto grease), silicone spray, lithium spray, WD40, synthetic brake pad squeak reducer, belt lubricant, etc. Nothing will work. Not sure what to do, but it's really annoying.

Suggestions are most welcome!

If you do try to remove the tailgate panel, read the 700/900 FAQ for repair/removing tailgate panel.

I have removed both 700 and 800 tailgate panels, and the procedure is similar if not the same.

If I remember correctly, you slide the panel up to remove it, then when you put it back together, you pull the clips off the panel and install them on the tailgate, then push the panel back on.

There is a kit to fix looseness, it is simple but worth the price.

Google - Volvo Tailgate panel kit.

BTW - Both times I broke the lever surround, but glued it and used it again!

Are you sure that it is not the latch on the right side (when facing forward ) of the rear seat? I had to lube this latch on our '96 855R every 2 years or so to get rid of the squeak.

In our '08 XC70, a clunk from the rear was solved by a latch adjustment.

That's what I had too on '97 850. Rear seat back release. If tailgate, loose inner panel around brake light?
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Farewell 'black manta' ('97 850) Hello 'rocket sled' ('06 V70R)

When does this noise happen? Rough road, turns?

Check the upper part of the tailgate inside panel, next to the glass. If it moves with gentle pressure, it may be the tabs are broken and need to be reinforced.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new