Rear Hatch Lock

[RVTRichard]

It seems that the failure of the Rear Hatch Locks on the Lumina Vans is common. Does anyone know why?

Thanks

[knuckle ears]

The handle where the key goes in does fail and break off often. The handle seems to be the only place to pull the gate open. Once you replace the handle you realize their is another place down by the license plate to pull on. The lock handle lasts a lot longer then.

[RVTRichard]

I'm sure that the lock handle is also a problem but I'm refering to tha actual lock. The lock itself seems to fail on a lot of these vans. You hit the power lock button and eveything locks except for the rear hatch. I've talked to countless owners who have experianced this but could never find out why this is happening.
Thanks

[knuckle ears]

Three things can go wrong.

The pin in the solinoid part of the lock mechanism is missing or the mechanism has slipped away from the key cylinder hole. The pin keeps the lock cylinder from moving as you turn the handle.

The solenoid is defective or the wire has come off. You should be able to hear it as you lock the van.

The arms that connect to the solenoid and then to the side latches are not attached anymore.

You would have to take the inside panel off the gate to see. Not too hard to do and you will be able to determine what is wrong.

[tinkering]

I am starting a new thread on the mechanical failure of these rear locks/handles.