Rear Hatch won't latch

[rdruss]

Have an '03 LTD with rear hatch automatic latch which decided to quit working and can't latch manually. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[rumfoord]

mechanism is most likely rusted, can try cleaning rust off or replace the whole lock, happened to mine and replaced. can remove from the inside.

 

[MikeinNH67]

If you hear the motor trying to latch then the video below may help you. The best fix is to replace the mechanism but it is pricey.

Stuck open or closed rusty Tailgate Latch fix for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner - YouTube

 

[rdruss]

Got it to work! Moved it latch/unlatch with screwdriver and pressed open button and it responded, finally got it in right sequence to close/latch, hope it was just a glitch!
Thanks for responses.

 

[MikeinNH67]

Got it to work! Moved it latch/unlatch with screwdriver and pressed open button and it responded, finally got it in right sequence to close/latch, hope it was just a glitch!
Thanks for responses.

Keep it lubricated.