Does anyone know how to disassemble the armrest including the park brake console so one can get to the electric socket of the cigar lighter? I have know idea where to start from.

 

I forget exactly.
But there should be screws in the console under a cover under the lid.
There might be some up front as well.

 

Second post down has pictures and instruction IIRC.

https://volvoforums.com/m_83722/tm.htm

 

Thanks a lot for the link. Any idea if the step-by-step guide refers to automatic transmission as well? The pics say "manual transmissions only".

 

Instructions are for both Automatic and Manual.. Manual just has a couple extra instructions "Manual transmissions only: Press in the clip and remove the gear selector lever boot." And then the clip is mentioned again when putting back together. The rest of the instructions apply.

For what it's worth, I had the same problem happen to my 01 S40 with the cigarette lighter. I ended up taking it apart and then cutting up a piece of wood(2X4 if I remember correctly) so that the cigarette lighter could not be pushed in as the clips broke. I haven't had to think about it again in a few years, still holding up. make sure you get the light back in(Agian going from memory of when I had to do it a few years ago).