HI my 2004 Durango tailgate door lock is having problems.Why you cant use a key in a hole is new to me? The motor sounds like it is still working. My lock will not electronically open or close. The tailgate will not lock. The metal lock part will not turn. I took it to the dealer and he said the nylon piece or something is not working and that I would need a new lock for $210. Does or can that black exposed lock box be opened? Thanks for any and all help.

 

I would take it to trusted mechanic rather than the dealer unless it is under warranty (doubtful for a 2004 model). A part may be needed instead of a complete assembly,
FF

 

you can pry it open but i don tthink it will close again. besides that, after the metal is out of the way the actuall lock mechanism is in plastic that you would have to break as well.