02 explorer liftgate will not open

[spicoli99]

I unlocked my truck this morning with the key FOB and then tried to open the lifgate and it seems to be still locked. I opened the hatch glass and checked the manual lock/unlock switch and it is in the unlock position. I can hear the lock/unlock actuator work with I press the unlock button on the key FOB but it still remains locked. How can I get the panel off to see what is going on when the door will not open. I did not see an access hole to manual open the door. I am at a loss here. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[scammy]

Same Problem!

I didn't see any responses for the aboove question but I have the exact same problem. If I open and then close the glass, I get a little bit of tension on the handle but I still cannot open it.

Any ideas?

Thanks,

 

[dutchman60]

I have experienced a similar problem with my 2000 Explorer Eddie Bauer... I am working on it now I just picked up a couple of parts at the dealer yesterday.... more than likely it is the connector ride from the actual handle that you left that connects to an actuator..there is a plastic clip and a plastic bushing on the rod that went bad... there is no access panel you must remove the entire interplastic door liner.... try to pull it away with a screwdriver or something.. right where the window glass latch is.... you will see 1 of the door actuators through the rectangular hole.. the actuator rod that is on the top you push it towards the driver side and your door should open... if it opens okay when you do that more than likely it is the rod that connects to the handle like mine that went bad.... it's a pain in the rear and it's a hard area to get at...good luck....!

 

[dutchman60]

Oh yea...I forgot...!! The Parts needed were only 8 dollars so don't panic!! Also make sure you clean the striker latches on each end of the door.... clean them with some WD 40 and then put white grease on them and make sure they are working okay...