razorrig

My rear hatch won't open. Not with the keyless remote, the dash button, the button on the tailgate, or using the emergency release as described in the manual. I can hear what sounds like the motor running but the glass won't pop open. Can anyone help?

goldbowtie

I had the SAME problem with my 97. When you hit any of the release methods, that activates the motor to pull the latch to release the glass. When the glass is released, the hatch can be opened. The problem is that there is this little green/yellow plastic tab that is attached to that motor. If that breaks, you will still hear the motor, because it is doing what it "thinks" it's supposed to. To fix it, you have to use a screwdriver (flat head) to manually release the glass. Then, drop the hatch and take out the trim screws to release the hatch cover. From that, you can replace that motor actuator. My problem was that since it was plastic to begin with, I did something I usually HATE to do, which is to fabricate (ok; rig) a replacement. Since I was able to do it with a metal coathanger, I felt more comfortable with that then an OEM plastic piece. Let me know how it goes!

richie44

I have exactly this problem. I am sure I can fix the link if I can get it open. I do not understand how to release the glass with a flat screwdriver. I do not have the manual or a picture of the mechanism. Can someone explain exactly how to release the glass from the tailgate? TIA.

ricksza

To get to the broken actuator, you will have to remove the tailgate trim panel. You will see next to the glass latch there is a small screw that is only accessed once the glass is open (must be a joke by GM). Any way, if you grab hold of the panel, it will split around the screw (usually after you are done you can reinstall the screw and you won't see the split) and then you can easily release the latch and pop the glass. The actuator is riveted to the plate in the tailgate

richie44

As per your advise, I was able to pull back the trim, break the top middle screw plastic, and access the mechanism to open the glass. I was then able to fabricate a replacement for the broken link. Thank you very much. The only thing I might add is to remove the tailgate release handle first as it interfers with the trim being pulled back.

93BLAZE

sometimes mine wont open and you can hear the motor, but i press on the window and hit the keyless remote button, it should pop right open

chcknugget

ricksza, that screw that it splits over fell down into the door, and every new screw/bolt combination that I use to replace it never stays on, because if you lift the gate up with the plastic trim (like you should be able to do) it separates form the hatch. How shoild I keep the plastic trim connected to the hatch?

ricksza

You will need a washer about 1/2 inch wide to hold against the trim panel.

blazing

i had the problem before also, i got it open by draining my bat. almost all
the way and click the key a cupple of times and it opens, why that works i don't know but it does.