V50 tailgate problem

[Max Tyler]

Hi all, first post so be gentle. Have tried the search facility but can't find a solution.

V50 2.0D 57 plate

In the ice last week current Mrs T had a problem whereby the hatch wouldn't shut. Bit of fiddling and it all worked. Long story short, now the lock only activates (allows the boot to open) when the ignition switch is in the 2 position (i.e. car in running condition). Any other situation and pushing the handle doesn't work. Switch ignition on, hatch opens and shuts as normal.

To add to the fun, when you switch off the hatch lock trips and the boot lid pops open if it's own accord. Switch off, shut hatch and it's locked.

It's a bit of a menace TBH. Any ideas?

[ratfink_v70_2000]

Break in wires in loom to lock. My S40 did exactly as you describe. My boot light wire fractured at the same time. I cut the rubber sheathing open that goes from car to tailgate/bootlid and soldered two new longer sections in to move the joints away from where the wire bends when tailgate/boot is opening and closing.