Help unclipping electrical connector

[iamhives]

I'm trying to remove the windshield washer reservoir from my 2005 XC70. I've removed the front bumper and the plastic bracket that acts as the bumper mount on the sides and have managed to access the three bolts holding the reservoir in so the reservoir is free. I thought that was the hard part! I've removed the electrical connector to the front pump and as the only step left in order to remove the reservoir I need to undo the electrical connector that attaches what I assume is the level sensor to the wiring loom.Everthing it a bit frozen up since its obviously never been undone in 20 plus years

I've attached a couple of pictures of the connector. I'm not 100% sure I understand how this clip works and am in danger of damaging if I keep stabbing what I think is the tab and pulling on it, so thought I would ask!.

I'm thinking that the section with the green/yellow and black wires pulls out from the casing which has the yellow/brown/black wires and that a small flathead screwdriver (or similar) needs to be inserted into the 'top channel' in the green/yellow end in order to move the clip that holds the connector together. Is this correct? If so, do I need to lever the tab in the channel up or down (away from the body of the connector or towards it)?

Thanks for the help with something that shouldn't be as difficult as it seems to be!

[volvolugnut]

I think there is dirt in the connector. Try flushing with WD-40 - it is non conducting. It will also give some lubrication.
volvolugnut

[RickHaleParker]

Thanks for the help with something that shouldn't be as difficult as it seems to be!

1. Put one drop of WD40 on the seam. Let it soak down between the two halves for 2 minutes.
2. On the end with the yellow wire push the tab in and hold it in.
3. With the other hand pull it apart.

[scot850]

Depending where you live, those connectors can be a real bear!

I have done whet has been suggested and they still wouldn't separate. I ended up using a pair of adjustable pliers on the one end pushing down and holding the press tab down and using a pair of vice grips on the other end. I try to be careful to limit damage to the connector.

Once separated, clean it down with a little WD-40 and then you have a good chance if you have to do it again it might be a lot easier.

Volvo seems to love to use these connectors in exposed places where dust and dirt can get into the sides. There is also normally a seal on the inside face which can cause a vacuum with the dirt making it so difficult to separate.

Good Luck!

Neil.

[jonesg]

[iamhives]

Finally managed to get it undone. As suggested, I used WD40 which helped a lot. I also found a similar connector in the engine bay which was more conveniently positioned and had been taken off less that 20 years ago to figure out how the tab/clip worked. Once that was done, a pair of vice grips to lightly grip the other end and out she came. The connector was certainly full of grit and grime that acted as a glue of sorts. Found the crack in the reservoir which I have successfully melted shut - we'll see how long that holds. Looks like I need new pumps also!

[abscate]

There is a secret to these. Push the connector tighter closed before you squeeze the clip to release.

Then squeeze and pull apart slowly to ease the vacuum.

These connectors are expensive, high quality and one if the reasons are cars are so reliable