Lower rear hatch won't open

[phildg2000]

Hi all,

I have a 2005 4.8is and I noticed today that the lower rear hatch won't open. I hear the motor operate when I press the switch but the door won't unlatch. I pried open the rear trim to check and the cable is getting pulled when I press the switch - but I guess not enough to unlatch the door. Or could the cable be detached at the other end?

Anyway, is there a way to tear it down to open it manually?

Thanks!

[Roman D]

If pried the panel off, you should be able to see an actuator. There is a plate with 2 cables attached to it. If you push that plate counter the cable, it should unlatch. Look at realoem. Com to see structure of the lock- it will help. I had to pull the same trick when I closed that gate with battery being disconnected.

[phildg2000]

Should that plate move freely? The manual makes it seem easy but when I tried, it wouldn't budge.