my dodge caravan back hatch will not unlock. My power locks won't unlock it, and the key won't even turn. I have tried de-icer, and WD 40, but the key won't budge. Should I attempt to take the panel off to get to it? And if I do some how manage to get to the lock, can I disconnect the auto lock to it? I really don't mind not being able to lock the hatch, I just want to use it and know it will stay shut going down the road.
It sounds as if the actuator motor has locked up and wont allow the key to turn. I have seen this before and in order to open the hatch you will have to take off the trim panel from the inside. Its a pain if you have all the seats in the van too.
Glenn Beasley Chrysler Tech
I have the exact same problem in my 96 grand caravan. I found that if you hold the hatch handle out just slightly whiile trying to turn the key it will work, i just move the handle in and out a little bit while trying the key, it works 80% of the time. Another way I get it to work is by hitting the power locks button to "unlock" (just unlock....NOT lock then unlock then lock) multiple times in a row (5 or 6) this seems to work most of the time.
If that actuator locks up completely you will not be able to open the door. Now may be a good time to replace the actuator
Glenn Beasley Chrysler Tech
We had this problem also.......there was a bunch of insulation like stuff that had fallen away and had to be cleaned out, that and alot of wd40.......now works fine.
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