Hi, I have a '96 850 wagon. Last time I tried to open the glove box it wouldn't open. It has not been locked and I've tried the key anyway and it has not worked. How can I get it open to even look at the latch? Any help would be great! Thanks - Jay H.

DO NOT cut the latch
using a srewdriver pry the glove box open and you should be able to see the 2 screws holding the latch in then unsrew them

or you can pry on the face of the glove box, probably breaking the centre mount for a screw, but then you would manualy unlatch it with a small screw driver.

after you got it open you can eith buy a new latch mechanism, or you can fix your old one, which i have done a few times. Where the little pin in broken off, drill a small hole there, than screw a small screw in there, almost completly shaving off the head of the screw so it will go in straight. use small vise grips to screw it in. if you have any questions you can ask me
volvo1982@hotmail.com

The plastic finally broke and will never open again. There is only one way to open the glovebox, and that means you have to destroy the catch.
Get some duct tape to cover the ttop of the glovebox door vinyl and the bottom edge of the dashboard. Then, with a hacksaw blade, cut the metal U shaped bracket that the latch is stuck on. Don't hurry the process, you do not want to scratch the vinyl.
You will then be able to get replacement parts.

Klaus
--
(V♂LV♂s 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)

Here are 3 comprehensive threads on how to fix your latch (in order of helpfulness);


1

2

3



To purchase a new latch set, check this eEuroparts Page.
FCP Groton is about the same price.

eBay sometimes has the latch, or the whole glove box door(a), (b), (c)(d)..



Cheers

--
1995 850T Wagon 120k