Hi All,

I recently bought a 1998 Dodge Durango. I'm having a problem where I cannot get the rear hatch to open.

****Is there a different key that opens the rear hatch than the key that starts the Durango and opens the side doors?****

Here's what I've tried to do so far to resolve this problem and nothing has worked:

1. Sprayed wd-40 and break-away into rear hatch key hole. Only key I have goes all the way in but will not turn as if it's hitting solid metal like it was the wrong key.

2. looked all over the durango for a inside hatch release lever or button but could not find one.

3. electronic switch that unlocks the side doors does not unlock the rear hatch.

 

Try to take the rear panel off with the hatch closed and look around in there. Something is wrong. You may have a rear actuator that's bad so it won't unlock through central locking. The hatch should ALWAYS lock/unlock with the rest of the doors. As for the key not working, probably a separate issue, but not necessarily. You'll just have to get in there with a flash light. There is a rod that slides left and right that locks/unlocks. You should be able to move it manually by hand to unlock then you can look at it easier with the hatch open

 

Ok thanks I'll crawl in the back tomorrow, wish me luck?

I have the same color and year Durango as you btw and mine is also an SLT. I believe that's where the similarities stop though, lol.

 

Nice! Yeh I like mine. But it's been known to have an issue or two, lol.

 

Your key might just be worn down. Same thing happened to me. Got a new key cut by a dealer based on the vin (guy on dakota-durango.com that works at a dealer) for $5 and it works fine now.

I'd think of the electric locks lock and unlock the hatch that it's fine, but not positive.

 

I'll try getting a new key, if that doesn't work I'll have to have my mechanic take a look at it. I took the inside rear hatch panel off and the mechanisms are pretty rusty. I sprayed the crap out of everything with wd-40 but can't get anything to move (won't lock or unlock or open or anything).

Thanks for the info. and help guys.

 

Have you considered getting a locksmith to open it and make a key to fit?
Also, is it possible that the prior owner changed out the lock?

 

Thats likely the whole problem. The electric solenoid or key weren't meant to overcome a rusted mess of mechanicals. I'd take that all out and try to clean it up on the bench, or replace it.