
The liftgate on your Jeep Grand Cherokee can be a convenient feature, but like any part of your vehicle, it's not immune to issues. One common problem is a faulty liftgate sensor, which can prevent the liftgate from opening or closing properly.
A faulty liftgate sensor can be caused by a loose or corroded electrical connection. According to the article, a corroded electrical connection can be fixed by cleaning the area with a wire brush and applying a rust-inhibiting coating.
Problems with the liftgate's hydraulic system are another common issue. The hydraulic system relies on a complex network of hoses, lines, and pumps to operate the liftgate. If one of these components fails, the liftgate may not function correctly.
The hydraulic fluid in your Jeep Grand Cherokee's liftgate system should be checked regularly to prevent leaks and other issues.
A unique perspective: Hands Free Power Liftgate
Jeep Grand Cherokee Issues
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Power Liftgate issues can be frustrating, but identifying the problems is the first step to fixing them. One common issue is when the liftgate doesn't open and close accurately. This can be caused by a damaged rubber lining, fluid droplets in the control modules, or an alternative flow of voltage.
Discover more: What Is a Power Liftgate on a Car

The liftgate may also stop working altogether, which can be due to a drained battery, cracked internal switches, or a lack of coordination between the key fob and sensors. If the key fob stops working, it's likely because the battery is drained, or the internal switches are cracked.
Another issue is when the liftgate closes within seconds after opening. This can be caused by a blown-out fuse, modified flow of voltage, excessive current load from the corresponding circuit, or a faulty electrical route. Wires can also tangle due to elevated temperature, causing the liftgate to malfunction.
Here are some common Jeep Grand Cherokee Power Liftgate problems and their causes:
These are just a few of the common issues that can arise with the Jeep Grand Cherokee Power Liftgate. By understanding the causes of these problems, you can take steps to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Liftgate Problems
Liftgate problems can be detected using a few methods. You need to identify the troubles first before fixing them.

Some common signs of a faulty power liftgate include a failure to close or open properly, or a stuck liftgate that won't budge. You may also notice a grinding or clicking noise when trying to operate the liftgate.
To diagnose the issue, check the liftgate's electrical system and wiring for any damage or corrosion. You can also consult the owner's manual for specific troubleshooting steps.
Consider reading: Power Liftgate Truck
Gate Doesn't Move After Button Push
If the gate doesn't move after pushing the button, it's likely due to an issue with the push buttons on the instrument panel. These buttons send a digital signal to the liftgate, but if they're faulty, the gate won't budge no matter how hard you press them.
Manually opening the liftgate is a good first step to troubleshoot the problem. A digital meter can then be used to monitor the current flow and internal switches. This can help identify if the issue is with the internal switches, which should be replaced with consistent and high-quality ones.
If the sensor or detector of your liftgate is damaged, it needs to be replaced. Accommodating the sensors in a particular network can also help improve their stability. However, if you're not sure what you're doing, it's always best to ask for help from experts.
Unlock/Lock Lever

If the liftgate becomes locked and unable to be opened, don't worry, there's a solution. You can access a manual unlock/lock lever behind a small panel on the interior trim panel.
This lever can be moved up or down to unlock or lock the liftgate door, giving you control back. It's a simple yet effective solution to a potentially frustrating problem.
To ensure the manual unlock/lock lever works properly, you'll need to compress the locking cap to lock the rod on the ball stud.
Power and Control Issues
The power and control issues of the Jeep Grand Cherokee liftgate can be frustrating, but identifying the problems can help you fix them. A faulty rubber lining around the frame of the liftgate can cause problems with its adjustment and even lead to burning and short circuits.
The liftgate's electrical module is also prone to damage from moisture and debris. To prevent this, it's essential to keep the module dry from the interior and avoid any accumulation of water.

Some common problems with the liftgate's power and control include the liftgate not opening and closing accurately, key fob issues, and the liftgate closing too quickly. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including a damaged rubber lining, drainage of the battery, or a blown-out fuse.
Here are some possible causes of power and control issues with the Jeep Grand Cherokee liftgate:
To fix these issues, you may need to clean the rubber lining, replace the battery or switch, or inspect the functionality of the module and sensors.
Power vs Manual
A power liftgate opens and shuts down electronically with just the press of a button, whether inside the car, on the hatch, or with the key fob.
You can disable the power operation if you want to close it manually, but that's not an option with a manual liftgate.
A manual liftgate has a similar design to a power liftgate, but it doesn't have any motor, so you need to engage with the handle for opening and closing it.
With a power liftgate, you can just press a button and walk away, but with a manual liftgate, you'll be doing some manual labor.
Inaccurate Power Control

The rubber lining of a power liftgate can get damaged due to dust, particles, debris, and moisture, causing inaccurate power control. This can lead to issues with the liftgate not opening and closing accurately.
Faulty electrical components, such as a blown-out fuse or erratic 12-volt meter, can also cause inaccurate power control. Excessive current load from the corresponding circuit can also lead to this issue.
To identify the problem, check if the rubber lining of the liftgate is damaged or if there are any signs of moisture accumulation. You can also inspect the electrical module and sensors of the liftgate for any issues.
Here are some common causes of inaccurate power control:
FCA has identified moisture entering the power liftgate control modules as a common cause of inaccurate power control, which can lead to short circuits and potential fire hazards.
Troubleshooting and Repair
If you're experiencing issues with your liftgate on your Jeep Grand Cherokee, the first step is to check the liftgate sensor, which is usually located on the rear bumper.

The sensor's job is to detect the presence of an object, such as a package or a person, and trigger the liftgate to open or close. If the sensor is faulty, it may cause the liftgate to malfunction.
Make sure to clean the sensor and its surrounding area to ensure proper function. Dirt, dust, or debris can easily damage the sensor.
The liftgate's electronic control module (ECM) also plays a crucial role in its operation. If the ECM is malfunctioning, it may cause the liftgate to malfunction.
The ECM can be reset by pressing and holding the liftgate switch for 10 seconds. This will reset the module and may resolve the issue.
If the problem persists, it's possible that the liftgate's hydraulic system is faulty. The hydraulic system is responsible for lifting and lowering the liftgate.
You can check the hydraulic system by looking for signs of leaks or damage. If you find any issues, it's best to consult a professional mechanic for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the liftgate recall on Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Jeep Grand Cherokee owners with 2014 and 2015 models may be affected by a recall due to potential moisture accumulation in the power liftgate control module, which can cause part failure and fires
What is the power liftgate on a Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The power liftgate on a Jeep Grand Cherokee is a motorized hatch that opens and closes electronically, providing easy access to the cargo area. It's like an automatic trunk opener, but for the rear hatch.
Sources
- https://jeepcorner.com/jeep-grand-cherokee-power-liftgate-problems/
- https://www.extremeterrain.com/jeep-grand-cherokee-recall-for-liftgate-moisture-problems-tech-guide.html
- https://jeepspecs.com/models/jeep-grand-cherokee/jeep-grand-cherokee-wj/liftgate-trim-and-components/
- https://www.weberbrothersauto.com/product/trunk-lid-liftgate-1000921613-za230/
- https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f87/liftgate-issue-wont-latch-235593/
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