Yes You can fool the door to operate with the latch down. Just close the latches on each side on the locking mechanism. Use a screwdriver or something similar to close the mechanism on both sides, the motor and mechanism will then operat with the rear door open.
/Harp
Welcome to the forum,
I am also new to this site. I found it by accident while troubleshooting my starterproblem. Turned out to be the contacts that needed replacement $15 fix. Saved me the cost for a new starter thanks to this site.