Fob won't unlock my tailgate

[RedStealth]

The only way I can unlock my rear tailgate is with a key. It won't unlock with the fob. Front and rear doors lock and unlock fine with the fob and also if I unlock from the driver side door, all doors lock and unlock If the use he key to unlock the rear door, it opens fine w/o problems and even locks with the fob and from the drivers side lock switch. But the fob doesn't unlock it. I can lock all doors including the back with the switch in the back, but wont unlock the rear. Anyone run into this issue before? Any suggestions on a fix?

 

[shreksbrother]

I understand the fob does not work to unlock the hatch, but does the lock/unlock switch on the front door unlock it?

It is hard to understand your wording... It seems like maybe the front switch and fob does in fact lock the rear hatch, just not unlock it? Can you hear the actuator make a noise at the hatch when you try to unlock it? It is possible it's just a failing actuator?

 

[RedStealth]

Sorry for the confusion.

The lock/unlock switch on the front door, locks the hatch but does not unlock it. Same thing with the fob.

It use to, tt doesn't anymore.

I don't hear anything from the hatch when I try to unlock from the door or the fob.

But I can use the key to unlock the hatch, no problem.

 

[shreksbrother]

Hello,

Ok, so I understood correctly.

If you hear nothing on unlock and it only locks, it could be wiring, a relay, or the actuator. I'm not familiar enough with GM's door lock circuits, but I doubt there is a separate relay for the hatch.

Unlocking with the key is a manual process, which is why it still works (does not use the actuator).

If it were my vehicle, I would start by manually putting 12v on the actuator to see if it moves in both directions. Then I would replace the actuator... Heck, you could even just plug in a new actuator without mounting it and see if it locks/unlocks properly.

I would also do a bit of research on the wiring. If there's a separate relay for the hatch lock, replace it. Also, get familiar with the wiring in case there's a broken wire you need to chase down.

Good luck with sorting it out!

 

[cmc76]

I think a fair number of us had luck with just giving the contacts that supply power to the rear doors a good cleaning. they live behind those rubber seals, and get allot of crud on them.

 

[shreksbrother]

I think a fair number of us had luck with just giving the contacts that supply power to the rear doors a good cleaning. they live behind those rubber seals, and get allot of crud on them.

Good point, I assumed he had a hatch because I do, but it's entirely possible they are barn doors!

 

[RedStealth]

I do not have barn doors...

 

[cmc76]

then pull the back panels off, and get to the lock mechanism. Make sure everything is free and cleaned up.

 

[RedStealth]

Ok. I'll check it out this weekend.