Tailgate actuator failed in closed position

Post by **DeanXC70** » 18 Aug 2019, 16:36

Hello

I am on what seems to be an epic car repair adventure!

2013 XC-70 T6.

Tailgate closed and will not open under normal conditions. Dash button, key fob button or tailgate switch. No manual opening device available.

Fuse good
Relay good

I can hear the lock actuator motor trying to do something!

Info on dash describes tailgate open and brake lights flashing like i've never seen!

I believe the lock assembly needs to be replaced and am prepared to buy one. But before I do, I would like to learn any and all ‘tricks’ you may have to open the gate to gain access to the part.
I am not interested in breaking interior trim!

Thanks!

Dolvo · Post by **Dolvo** » 02 Dec 2019, 13:14

I know this is an old post but browsing through! I had a similar issue with my V70. It turned out to be the rear tailgate connection loom in the headliner at the rear. To access this I removed the rear light, and then an 8mm bolt. Headliner then pulled down (with clips) and I was able to access the connections. Released the clip, prised both connections open, sprayed in contact/electrical cleaner and then all sorted!

Trunk/boot/tailgate now operates as it should again!

PIF · Post by **PIF** » 07 Mar 2020, 18:33

I have the same problem as the OP. I see that there's only been one response. I don't know whether his situation actually matched that of the OP -- like him "I can hear the lock actuator motor trying to do something."

The handle itself seems to be pulled back & up -- stuck in that position.

Does anyone have any other suggestions?

PIF · Post by **PIF** » 23 Mar 2020, 19:15

Obviously, this is a fairly useless site -- at least for discussions of tis car. For the record, pulling the handle back into normal position (not a whole lot of resistance to doing that) sufficed to fix the problem.

arne27 · Post by **arne27** » 18 Apr 2020, 06:10

I've only just come across this which affected my v70 2009 a little while ago. Turned out to be both my gas struts behind the lining not being sufficient enough to push the tailgate up. Replacement is easy and a youtube video is useful to view what steps to take. (And the same guy has done many more useful videos on his Canadian XC70 which apllies to other vehicles too) However there is another blackspot inasfar as the tailgate handle is dependent on a pin exposed to the exterior of the vehicle (you can just see it when the tailgate is raised). That rusts and prevents the handle from gaining full travel. Because it cannot be replaced easily, if at all, perhaps a good dose of some WD40 or grease might get it working again. You can tobviously test it by squeezing the handle and seeing if it sticks in place - if the grease solution doesn't work. it'll mean a new handle.