Power Liftgate Release Switch

Power Liftgate Release Switch

Description

All vehicles are equipped with a power liftgate release switch. The switch is integral to the power liftgate latch. It is activated by the exterior handle, located in the license plate light bar, through a mechanical cable attaching the two together. The power liftgate release switch is primarily used for manual opening of the liftgate. Activation of the switch during an automatic power "close" cycle will cause the liftgate to reverse direction. Activation of the switch during a power "open" cycle will cause the power liftgate to disengage, allowing full manual operation.

The power liftgate release switch cannot be adjusted or repaired and if damaged or inoperative the complete power liftgate latch must be replaced. Refer to => [ Power Liftgate Latch ] Power Liftgate Latch.

Operation

When the exterior liftgate handle is pulled, a mechanical cable inside the liftgate activates the power liftgate release switch in the power liftgate latch assembly. A hard-wired signal is then detected by the power liftgate control module. The power liftgate control module then looks at the vehicle lock status on the controller area network data bus. If the vehicle is not locked and the operating conditions are met, the power liftgate control module then applies power to the latch mounted motor, which moves the liftgate from the primary closed and latched position to the open and movable position.

If the liftgate is not pulled open within seven seconds, once the latch releases, the latch will automatically cinch closed.