Back hatch wont open

First try unlocking the rear hatch again. If you look closely at the latch. You should see what looks like a "U". Is the "U" open in the inside area? Do you see what might look like a hook that is blocking up the middle and preventing the striker from sliding into place. If you notice that the hook is blocking the hole and hitting the hatch release button didn't help. Either the bungee cord somehow aided in the latch getting damaged or the hook needs to be assisted and pulled back in the released position. To attempt this service. Get a helper, stick a philips head screwdriver through the hole of the hook and apply pressure towards the opening of the "U". While you are applying pressure ask your assistant to hit the open button for the hatch. If after the second try there is no positive result. More than likely the latch will need to be replaced. Good Luck.

Maybe there is a broken wire to the tailgate

Body Control should be changed but a quick fix is too disconnect the battery and than rehook the battery -- seem to work for awhile

may have a bad switch

There is no lever or any key hole it is a fully electric operated power latch. As to the cause the park brake must be engaged and the car in park gear position before the hatch will open, is it?

are you sure the lock out lever is in its correct position (small lever you can set to locked or unlocked), had a problem with it slipping to the locked position on a stratus a few years back,

reprogram fob

you have to change the fuse for the lights. The inside lights controll the rear hatch and window

Bring it back to Circuit City, they tapped into a wire to the hatch lock and shorted it out, or cut it, they should fix it at no charge.

the button is on the right side of the stering colom