1998 v40 central lock problem - wont work off the key

zim · Post by **zim** » 04 Jul 2010, 03:21

Hi Volvo forumites I have a 1998 2.0 LP turbo and the car has a central locking problem - is it now not centralised, it won't open the other doors.

The drivers control lock has become stiff and it takes a bit of effort to even turn the key and open the drivers lock alone.

On the inside it is a different story, if I pull up the drivers door lock it easily opens all the doors. The power button operated rear child locks system still works as well - so that the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside.

The only other thing I notice is the rear seat lock button on the driver side is also a bit stiff to pull up whereas the 2 locks on the passenger side are much more free in operation.

I thought it was a faulty actuator but the system works fine from the inside or does the action of pulling up the lock do its job manually? If any one has an ideas on whether it is this or if it is the drivers door lock mechanism itself - and what time and parts would be needed to do the repair job I would really appreciate any information.

Then I can size up whether to go DIY or go to an independent auto electrician or a dealer.

zim · Post by **zim** » 30 Aug 2010, 00:41

Late update - first step of servicing all the links and mechanisms with CRC Marine lubricating product (removed door cards for access) cured the problem. Central locking now works fine all round, when using the key and from inside etc.

Post by **billofdurham** » 30 Aug 2010, 11:46

zim, welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

I missed this first time around. Thank you for the update. It is amazing what a drop or two of oil will do.

Bill.

watergrl · Post by **watergrl** » 01 Dec 2010, 12:25

Hi there,
Since you are on the subject of locked doors, I recently bought a 1998 s40 and I can't get the back doors to open at all. I don't have a manual so I don't even know where the child-safe button is located; I am assuming that is my problem. Back doors won't open from the inside or the outside.

Thanks for any help you can give me!

Post by **billofdurham** » 01 Dec 2010, 12:45

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

First I need to ask a question. How have you a 1998 S40 in the US? They weren't launched until 2000 on that side of the pond.

The child safety lock buttons are located in the rear edge of the door. However, I can't see that as the fault as the doors should still open from the outside.

Until we find out if your car is a US model or European or wherever I don't know what to suggest as different markets have different systems on some things.

Bill.