The lift gate on my van is completely inop. The lights flash when I press the buttons to open it, but no operation. Also, it will not open without using the key. If I hold it slightly open and press the button, the power option does work to close the door, and if I hold it down slightly from the open position, it will open the rest of the way. It akts as though it is locked, and I cant unlock it.

 

Welcome to DF
You may want to replace the liftgate latch assy. And ck the lock on the door to the liftgate latch assy. The latch assy allows the liftgate to unlock and open. If you had a DRB3 you could ck the for doors for codes.