1999 Volvo S 70 Driver Door Thinks Its Open

volvooh · Post by **volvooh** » 27 May 2016, 07:37

My driver's side door thinks its open all the time. I remedied this temporarily by adding duck tape to the latch so snugs up the connection, but this is a very short term fix.

I have heard others attempt to use JB Weld to build up that latch for a longer term "snug fit". Does anyone have any success stories using this method?

Also, is it possible to disconnect the electrical connection, so it just thinks its closed all the time, or would the connection need a jumper?

Yes, I can replace the latch, but I am so deep in projects right now that I am looking for a medium range fix to get me through to the point where I have more time for a permanent fix.

Any input is appreciated!

angelglo · Post by **angelglo** » 27 May 2016, 12:46

This is a fairly simple fix and a common problem. There is no need to buy a $100.00+ new switch. You can do this job inside of an hour. I will not go into detail on explaining how to take the door panel apart or how to unbolt the latch.

After you have the latch out, you can see in the picture the small green pin switch that senses if the door is open or closed. After many actuations, the plastic parts wear. To fix this, I just installed a shim. In the pictures, you will see the rocker lever that pushes the pin in and our. All I did was get a metal strap, bend it as shown in the picture, Cut it to size, and place it in the position that is shown. I did not use glue but you can to ensure that it stays. I did this two years ago and I haven't had to slam my door closed since then. after its done, just put everything back together again.

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volvooh · Post by **volvooh** » 27 May 2016, 13:23

Thanks- I'll give this a shot.

Post by **pvfjr** » 01 Dec 2016, 16:41

I might have to try this myself. It looks like the previous owner just yanked the red door light out of the right rear door, and switched off the dome light switch. The sad part is, I don't know what happened to the red door light, so I'll have to find a replacement.

I've also always wondered why the car offered no feedback when locked or unlocked with the fob. It seems maybe this is the cause. Most cars either flash lights or beep when the fob is used, but mine does nothing (aside from actuating the locks, of course).

Post by **abscate** » 01 Dec 2016, 18:56

I can check my part out car for this light if you want, send PM please