The lift gate of my 2003 ford escape wont lock using my FOB and switch at the driver side. I opened the panel to check the linkages for binding and they seemed good. I disconnected the connector of the actuator and measured the resistance accross the terminals and i got zero reading. Is the actuator already shorted?
I just want to know if there is any manual to disarm the lift gate and check for the problem. Currently my door is lock and cant open, how you force it to open?
Hello, all. I just got done with this whole rear gate not locking/unlocking. Fortunately, there is a (relative) easy fix!
Symptom: You lock your car with FOB but back gate still opens; sets off alarm (i.e.- things can get stolen from your car even after being "locked")
or
You unlock your car but the back gate does not unlock, so you can't get your groceries or tools out of your car (thoughts of breaking a window pass through your brain...)
Problem: rear gate door lock actuator malfunctions
******* solution: remove back gate cover (4 screws, some prying and pulling) and manually lift the actuator (my 2002 Escape does not have a key/manual entry)
Better solution: call junk yards around to find an actuator. Nationwide Auto Parts in Toledo sold me their used one for less than $40. Still remove door cover but then replace broken actuator by removing 4 nuts and 4 screws (2 holding actuator to bracket)
Expensive solution: get a factory replacement at $160 (Kistler Ford in Toledo) and get charged labor for replacement
Alternative: give me a call and I'll fix it for price of part plus dinner at Taco Bell
Ford actually had a recall on the escape hatch, check and see if that is included, could be a free fix for you
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My 2003 Mazda Tribute has the same problem. Even though the only thing bad is the ten dollar actuator Mazda does not sell it alone, they will only sell the entire liftgate lock assembly. Imagine that!! I contacted Mazda to ask for some justice. They sent me a five dollar Starbucks certificate along with a 'thank you for contacting us' letter. Four nuts and three screw are the only things holding the device in place. It is an easy fix if you can find the part. I suppose Ford/Mazda should have made it harder. They are slipping. I am afraid to buy an actuator on line because I may get the wrong one. So I am searching the junk yards for a wrecked Tribute or Escape. Good luck.
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