2000 Jeep Cherokee rear tail gate locking mechanism

155,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
ANDREWOSTROWSKI
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
the tail gate locking mechanism will not disengage. i can turn the key to the unlock position but there is resitance. it feels like there may be corrosion and possibly a piece is loose based on the sound the lock makes when actuated by the power lock switch.

i think i will have to replace or disassemble and clean the locking mechanism.

How can i release the lock and open the gate to make this repair/replacement?
Jun 6, 2010 at 8:29 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACK FORSYTH
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I had this problem, I was able to take the back panel of from the inside with an offset phillips head screw driver. released the gate then adjusted the the latch and freed up the lock.
Jun 29, 2010 at 11:52 AM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle