How to Handle a Volvo S60 Trunk That Won't Open
4 Answers
There is usually a small cover inside the trunk, which can be easily pried open with a key or other sharp object. Once the cover is removed, you will see the trunk's locking mechanism inside. A gentle pull will open the trunk. Below are the reasons and solutions for a Volvo S60 trunk that won't open: 1. Linkage rod or lock cylinder issue: If you frequently use the key to open the trunk, the linkage rod may be broken, and you will need to go to a repair shop to have it opened. If you always use the remote control to open the trunk, the lock cylinder may be dirty or rusted. Spraying rust remover into the lock cylinder a few times should help open it. 2. Not unlocked: If the trunk hasn't been unlocked with the remote key, it will be difficult to open. Before attempting to open it, make sure to press the unlock button on the key or check if the key battery is dead. 3. Mechanical part failure: The trunk itself may have issues. For example, the trunk's connecting wires may be disconnected.
When encountering the issue of a Volvo S60 trunk not opening, I recommend troubleshooting step by step. The most common cause is a dead remote key battery—try replacing it with a new one, or use the mechanical key to manually turn the lock cylinder a few times to open it. If that doesn’t work, check if the trunk button is stuck; sometimes dust or debris can cause it to malfunction, and cleaning it might help. An electronic control system failure could also be the culprit, such as a faulty trunk control module—try turning off the engine, waiting a few minutes, and restarting the system. In cold weather, the lock may freeze; sprinkling some de-icing salt or using a hairdryer to warm it up can help. If all else fails, avoid forcing it open to prevent further damage and head straight to a Volvo dealership for professional diagnosis and repair—it’s safer and more convenient. Regular maintenance can help prevent such issues in the future.
A stuck trunk can be tricky, so prioritize safety when handling it. First, check if the remote or interior switch responds—press and listen for sounds or lights. If there's no reaction, it might be a battery or circuit issue. Then, use the spare key to manually unlock the entry and gently push the door edge to loosen it. The Volvo S60 may have child locks or accidental activation of security settings, so check the control screen to disable extra safety features. In emergencies, some models allow folding the rear seats to access the emergency release cord inside. If the issue persists, it could be a blown fuse or faulty sensor—contact a professional immediately to avoid roadside hazards. Forced opening carries risks, so regular lock mechanism checks are recommended.
I have extensive experience in handling this issue. First, check if the remote key battery is depleted and try replacing the button battery to unlock. If that doesn't work, locate the manual keyhole in the trunk, insert the mechanical key, and turn it left and right a few times to release the lock. In hot or cold weather, locks are prone to sticking; a quick fix is to spray some lubricant or de-icing spray. If the above methods fail, it might be an electronic malfunction like a blown fuse—check the fuse box and replace the corresponding fuse. If the problem persists, don't waste more time; take it to a repair shop to diagnose the system codes. Volvo designs are reliable, but addressing minor issues promptly ensures peace of mind.
