First, thanks to all of you for posting info on this board. I was originally skeptical of buying the first of the new models (especially given Volvo's recent quality issues...), but the 2001 XC that we bought is a wonderful piece of design.

Except for the 'cricket' squeak in the glovebox...

As many of you know, this is a systemic problem in the early 2001 XC's. As many before have mentioned, the dealers have been directed to lube the latch at the front of the glovebox door. In our case, this did not make a difference.

After a little experimentation, we determined that the cause of the squeak was the spring-loaded post that turns the glovebox light on and off. It can be found by opening the glovebox and putting your hand between the top of the open glovebox and the dashboard on the left-hand side. It was squeaking against the piece of plastic that it hits when the door is closed.

As my wife is into sewing, she created this elegant, yet simple fix. She made a (please forgive the word, but it's the best description) 'condom' of scrap cotton fabric that slides over the post. We secured it to the base of the post with a small rubber band to make sure that it doesn't fall off. The results are incredible! Finally, a squeak-free car...

Again, thanks to you all for your help and have a happy New Year!

- theGhost