We have a 2000 Volvo V70 XC, AWD, 5 cylinder, automatic. After on & off issues with the tailgate latch, it broke late last year. We replaced it with a used one in January. Unlike the previous latch, which gave some warning signs & would intermittently work, the replacement one just broke.

We had no issues prior to this, and do not use the tailgate very often. This time though, when shutting the tailgate, it bounced back up about a foot when I shut it. After looking at it for a few minutes, I saw that the actual latch (the plastic part that slips over the post in the trunk) was in at least 2 pieces. Found the ratchet tie downs & strapped the tailgate shut, although the Trunk Open indicator now is lit all the time.

My used replacement ran about $90 & lasted about 9 months. Thus far, replacements I've found online are in the $140+ range. Still trying local auto graveyards.

Not wanting to throw (more) good money after bad, I'm hesitant to drop $150 on another latch assembly, in which the latch itself seems to be made of non-durable plastic. New or not, without changes, any one I replace it with is the same problem waiting to happen (again).

Truthfully, in the last few months we had to absorb a pretty costly repair to replace the fuel pump in the tank. Because of that, we just don't have the extra cash now to replace the same latch again.

Is there any way to fix/replace the broken part of this latch? I'm going to try to post a picture of the old one, zoomed in on the piece that actually breaks (rest of the latch is fine).

I'd appreciate any thoughts, suggestions, alternatives or options. I've already used all the swear words I know.