We have a 2001 Caravan Sport with an electric rear hatch lock/release. Over the last few weeks the electric release has gotten progressively less responsive and sluggish to respond to the remote keypad and to the switch on the driver's door. The keypad batteries are new.

Now, the release will not respond at all either remotely or with the driver's door switch or when depressing the exterior rubber piece under the lip of the hatch handle. The key still opens the hatch without a problem. The electric door locks are fine, no problems.

Any ideas?

Many thanks.

 

yep, it is very common for the switch in the hatch to corrode. It then sends a screwy signal to the bcm so the remote doesn't work or the switch in the hatch doesn't work. I've never tried it but in theory, if you unplug the hatch switch, the remote should start to work again. If it seemed to get worse after it rained or a car wash, that's another good sign it is bad. I bet 80-90% of the time, that is the problem.

 

If you search, I just posted wiring diagrams for the system on someone elses thread not to long ago. And welcome to the forum

 

Thanks, Tizzy1.

Do I remove the inside panel on the hatch door or can I just unscrew the exterior hatch handle that has the rubber covered release under it?

If i remove the inside panel, are the edges held to the door with hidden clips?

Thanks, again.

 

Sorry, took the weekend off (Sunday, Monday for me). the name of the thread is "2003 Caravan liftgate won't unlock" posted by blakey. The diagrams are on that thread. Here are the panel removal steps..........

REMOVAL

1. Remove the bolt attaching the lift motor link, if equipped.
2. Remove liftgate upper frame molding.
3. Remove assist handle screws.
4. Disengage hidden clips holding trim panel to liftgate from around perimeter or liftgate.
5. Disconnect wire connector from lamps.
6. Remove liftgate trim panel from vehicle.

 

Tizzy1 --

Great detail and thanks. We tackle the job next Tuesday morning. Thanks, again.