1999 rear hatch window & lock not working

[HURRICANES]

The rear window quit working about 8-12 months ago and I haven't had time to fool with it. Now the power lock for the rear hatch isn't working either. Only way to lock / unlock is to use the key manually on hatch. Any suggestions on how to diagnose? I hate to just start buying parts and replacing if not needed. I did start to pull back panel today and had all clips and pull strap disconnected but I couldn't figure how to remove the upper part of panel near the window. I didn't want to break any plastic and couldn't tell if you had to also remove the seal that extended up around the window. If anyone knows of a video / write up on removing the rear panel I would appreciate that too. I really don't want to take to the dealership based on my recent visit with my 05 4runner. The rear passenger door lock quit working and they gave an estimate of $365 to replace the door lock actuator - which I thought was ridiculous. I will probably attempt that one myself at a later date.

 

[snowninja]

The rear window quit working about 8-12 months ago and I haven't had time to fool with it. Now the power lock for the rear hatch isn't working either. Only way to lock / unlock is to use the key manually on hatch. Any suggestions on how to diagnose? I hate to just start buying parts and replacing if not needed. I did start to pull back panel today and had all clips and pull strap disconnected but I couldn't figure how to remove the upper part of panel near the window. I didn't want to break any plastic and couldn't tell if you had to also remove the seal that extended up around the window. If anyone knows of a video / write up on removing the rear panel I would appreciate that too. I really don't want to take to the dealership based on my recent visit with my 05 4runner. The rear passenger door lock quit working and they gave an estimate of $365 to replace the door lock actuator - which I thought was ridiculous. I will probably attempt that one myself at a later date.

Will the window work with the key in the hatch ? I don't know if the window/lock share a wiring harness but would be surprised if they did. Sounds like,might be dealing with 2 different issues. I replaced my winow motor with used one purchased from a member here. Been working great for 2 years.

 

[habanero]

Easy quick first step: Check the wires under the rubber boot that runs between the body and the hatch. Wires very often break under there and it'll take only a few minutes to look.

 

[HURRICANES]

I will check the wires tomorrow.

 

[Bstrom]

Might also check/replace the battery in your remote if you are using one. It will drop the rear window (but not close it!) and unlock the hatch with the second blip that opens the remaining doors, etc. just a thought...

 

[jeremyc74]

That rear panel comes off pretty easily. Start at the bottom (away from the window) with a small pry bar, and work your way around the sides. Once all the fasteners are loose you have to push it up to get the area around the window to come loose. It's snapped down over a lip.

But before you do all that I'd check the fuses. I'm on a bad internet connection right now and I don't want to try to access the wiring diagrams, but if the power lock and aren't working you might find some common wiring to check.

As far as the window goes, the rear wiper needs to be in the "Park" position for it to move, so take a look at that too.