Adjusting the tailgate

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Volvo S40, 2003 Volvo S40, 2002 Volvo S40, 2001 Volvo S40, and 2000 Volvo S40. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Adjusting Tailgate

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

The tailgate must be adjusted at the top so that there is 0.5-2.0 mm below the edge of the roof. This distance must be the same along the width of the tailgate.

The gap between the panels must be 6.0 0.5 mm parallel to the edge of the roof (1).

The bottom of the tailgate must be parallel to the car body (2).

NOTE: Twist in the rubber stops (3) on the underneath before making adjustments.

Fig 2: Adjusting Upper Section Of Tailgate

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

Adjusting the upper section of the tailgate

The upper section of the tailgate can be adjusted in two ways.

(A): Adjustment to the sides, centered with the opening of the tailgate. Adjustment of the depth against the edge of the roof.

The gap between the panels must be 6.0 0.5 mm along the entire width of the tailgate.

Slacken off the screws securing the hinges at the tailgate on both sides. Adjust the tailgate. Tighten the screws. Tighten to 24 Nm .

(B): Height adjustment, 0.5-2.0 mm below the edge of the roof and the gap.

Adjust the height as follows. Install spacers between the hinges and the tailgate. The distance between the left and right-hand sides must not exceed 0.5 mm . Remove the 2x screws securing the hinges at the tailgate. Install the spacers.

Install the screws. Adjust the tailgate and hinges. Tighten the screws. Tighten to 24 Nm .

CAUTION: The hinge on the body must not be adjusted because of the seal.

Fig 3: Adjusting Lower Section Of Tailgate

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

Adjusting the lower section of the tailgate

The lower section of the tailgate can be adjusted in two ways.

(1): Adjusting the lock downwards.

Close the tailgate. Adjust the lock and striker plate so that the tailgate can close without any gaps.

Unscrew the screws. Adjust the striker plate/lock.

Tighten the screws for the lock. Tighten to 24 Nm .

Tighten the screws for the striker plate. Tighten to 10 Nm .

If the lock or striker plate cannot be adjusted due to excessive height, adjust the hinge at the top.

NOTE: If the tailgate is too low, the rubber stops can be used. See below.

Fig 4: Turning Rubber Stops Outwards

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

(2): Adjusting the bottom edge using the rubber stops.

NOTE: First adjust the lock.

Turn the rubber stops outwards to correct the position of the tailgate against the car body (A) when the tailgate is closed. Use a sheet of paper as a guide. Turn the rubber stops 3/4 turn outwards (1).

If the tailgate is too low in relation to the car body, turn the rubber stops as far out as possible.