98 pathfinder tailgate won't open

The tail gate on my daughters 98 pathfinder will not open! When you lift the handle the tailgate pops open but only moves about a 1/4". Tried to unlatch it from inside the tailgate with no luck. Help :banghead:

The tail gate on my daughters 98 pathfinder will not open! When you lift the handle the tailgate pops open but only moves about a 1/4". Tried to unlatch it from inside the tailgate with no luck. Help :banghead:
The latch is bad. I had this problem with my 96 pathfinder. Your best bet if you are a do-it-yourselfer is to remove the interior panel disconnect all the rods going to the lock assembly. then remove the out side handle and work the latch and see if it will free up. Mine didn't so i ended up getting a punch and destroying the latch so it would open. I ordered a new one from the dealership ($100). If you bring it to a nissan shop they will charge you upwards of $500 to fix it.