S40 rear hatch won't open

The most common cause is a faulty microswitch on the rear hatch release button. The fault can be intermittent — the hatch may work sometimes and then stop working again.

1. Remove the torx screws around the release button and detach the handle/light assembly. 2. Disconnect the rear hatch switch connector. 3. Connect pins 1 and 3 of the connector with a jumper wire. 4. If the hatch opens, the fault is in the switch. 5. If it doesn't open, measure resistance from pin 3 to the car body — the fault may be in the ground connection.

Yes — remove the torx screws around the rubber boot, spray the switch with cleaning spray. This temporary repair has worked for some users for up to a year. If cleaning doesn't help, the switch must be replaced (repair shop cost approximately €80).