The tailgate latch on my 94 wagon is shot. I live on a long gravel driveway and it rattles like a new Volkswagen. Has anyone out there replaced this or fixed it? Its not just out of adjustment. I had my mechanic look at it last time the car was in for service. He tried to get it to close a bit tighter but to no avail. Any input appreciated.
Thanks,
Ben
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Tack så mycket

Call the guys at volvosaabparts.com - Their number is 800-700-8658. Like someone mentioned, the dealer wants $170 for a new latch mechanism. These guys will sell you one for $65 plus shipping. It't not brand new, but it works!

I had the exact same problem you do. My tailgate latch rattled like crazy. Every bump I hit made it sound like I was driving a piece of crap!

The two "plates" on the latch are held together with rivets, and my rivets had worn out causing the two plates to rattle against each other - and also causing the tailgate to not be SNUGLY secured to the car when closed.

After I replaced the latch, the car sounds solid, baby. I definitely recommend doing this, you'll be so much happier...I am. It's pretty easy to do...failry self explanatory once you get started.

I was able to adjust the anchor that the mechanism latches against when the tailgate is closed. Just loosen the bolts and nudge it inward (towards the front of the car). Tighten up and test the latch. If you go to far inward the latch can be stubborn to open. Other temporary fix I used was to wrap some electrical tape around the anchor to pad it slightly. Not ideal but a new latch mechanism is over $190 at the dealer.
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Scott - '98 V70 T5M

well..actually i had the same probs and had no resort but to buy from the dealer. it costs me $25. worth every penny, hate that rattling thing....i even changed the rear panel clips etc.