Power Trunk / Liftgate Lock Switch: Description and Operation

SWITCH-LIFTGATE AJAR

A liftgate ajar switch is standard equipment on this vehicle. The switch is concealed within and integral to the liftgate latch unit. The switch is a momentary leaf contact-type unit that is actuated by the liftgate latch mechanisms. An integral connector receptacle on the liftgate latch connects the liftgate ajar switch to the vehicle electrical system through the liftgate wire harness. The liftgate ajar switch cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the liftgate latch unit must be replaced.

The liftgate ajar switch is actuated by the liftgate latch mechanism. When the liftgate is closed and properly latched, its liftgate ajar switch is an open circuit. When the liftgate is open or only partially latched, the liftgate ajar switch is a closed circuit. The liftgate ajar switch is hard wired in series between a body ground and the Electromechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC). The EMIC reads the hard wired liftgate ajar switch input through an internal pull-up, then uses this input to control many electronic functions and features of the vehicle.

The liftgate ajar switch can be diagnosed and tested using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. However, conventional diagnostic methods may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the EMIC, the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus, or the electronic messaging used to convey liftgate ajar switch status to other modules in the vehicle. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the EMIC, the CAN data bus, and both the hard wired and electronic message inputs and outputs affected by the lift-gate ajar switch inputs requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.