My 2004 Ford Escape LiftGate Latch won't latch... when I close it, it doesn't seem to want to grab... any solutions?

2008 2012 Ford Escape Liftgate Latch Won Open Access Diagnosis Repair

You just need to remove the gate inside trim panel. Do not pull the entire gate off. Watch the video and yes the procedure is the same for the 2006 models Ford Escape LiftGate Lock Actuator Replacement

I don't think the piece of rubber has anything to do with the functionality of the latch itself it usually there for keeping the latch quiet like no rattle or metal noise on the road.
Hope it helps

Sounds like the actuator.

Need to vistit the dealer ans ask about recall 04V602000: Liftgate Latch Release Rod Replacement

Certain 2004-2005 sport utility vehicles and certain 2001-2003 sport utiity vehicles having rear liftgate components serviced with 2004 equivalent components fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components." The rear liftgate latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement in one direction.

Good luck.

how to i open a stuck lift garte on a ford winstar 2000 lock broken too

The liftgate consists of the following components:

• liftgate door lock actuator
• liftgate lock cylinder (if equipped)
• liftgate window glass
• liftgate window latch/ajar switch
• liftgate window glass release handle
• liftgate latch remote control which consists of the following component:
  • liftgate release handle
• liftgate latch, which consist of the following component:
  • liftgate latch door ajar switch

Liftgate Latch Actuator Removal and Installation

1. Remove the liftgate latch remote control. For additional information, refer to Liftgate Latch Remote Control in this section.

SECTION 501-14: Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems 2001 Escape Workshop Manual
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION Liftgate Latch Removal and Installation

1. Remove the liftgate trim panel.

1. Disconnect the liftgate ajar switch electrical connector.

1. Disconnect the liftgate latch actuating rod.
   1. Open the clip.
   1. Disconnect the actuating rod.

1. Remove and discard the liftgate latch bolts.

1. Remove the liftgate latch.

1. NOTE: Make sure the liftgate latch release rod is not preloading the latch. It should be clipped in a relaxed state with no slack.
   NOTE: Position the liftgate latch release rod by pushing outboard to remove the slack.
   

1. Remove the screws and the liftgate latch actuator

get in vehicle and make sure all doors are closed and liftgate and liftgate glass are closed turn on ignition and see if warning of door ajar is on .if so then one of the door ajar switchs are stuck. purchase a can of PB BLASTER available at your local auto parts store and lube all latch assembleys on vehicle then open and close all doors 10 to 15 times this will usually free up the stuck switch. note spray the latch assembleys really good so it will reach the switch which is hidden in the latch.

Probably a issue with your actuator... there is a recall due to the "latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement" might want to check with the dealership to see if your vehicle is with this group, hope this helps :)

Recall 04V602000: Liftgate Latch Release Rod Replacement

Certain 2004-2005 sport utility vehicles and certain 2001-2003 sport utiity vehicles having rear liftgate components serviced with 2004 equivalent components fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components." The rear liftgate latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement in one direction.

Probably a issue with your actuator... there is a recall due to the "latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement" might want to check with the dealership to see if your vehicle is with this group, hope this helps :)

Recall 04V602000: Liftgate Latch Release Rod Replacement

Certain 2004-2005 sport utility vehicles and certain 2001-2003 sport utiity vehicles having rear liftgate components serviced with 2004 equivalent components fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components." The rear liftgate latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement in one direction.