Latch on the liftgate of 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee will not open.

first is diagnosis.
you examine and test it. to see if its electrical or mech. failure.
and once discovered that follow that to logical conclusions.

Unlock the doors with the power unlock button then you have to push in on the bottom part of the plastic bezel that surrounds the liftgate handle, while at the same time pulling the liftgate handle outwards. It should open then.

We had a similar problem with our Grand Cherokee, the actual problem was the latch handle. We ended up taking it to the body shop to get the gate open and the latch handle replaced. I don't remember the actual total but it was under $100 including parts.

pull the inside door handle out like you are opening the door, and use a screw driver to move the latch.

i just fixed the liftgate on my 1998 JGC Laredo this afternoon: door handle, when lifted, does not release latch mechanism

here is a solution that may apply to you...

1. open liftgate flipper window
2. remove door panel screws from inside
3. use coat hanger to pull up on locking mechanism arm (at the bottom) to release latch mechanism
4. with door now open, remove remaining door panel screws to completely remove door panel
5. adjust the positioning of the latch rod in its retaining clip (open clip and reposition rod)
in my case, I had took much slack and repositioned the rod by a few threads (about 1/8th inch) in the clip.
be sure rod is seated fully in the clip and that the clip is securely closed
5. test your fix before re-assembling everything

want a long, detailed version? let me know.

Review this reference documents: ZJ-Secc-8P-Power-Door-Locks (Page 4)

Good luck... and rated my help!!!

Try hit it right below the latch while pulling on it it will open, or remove the covers, check and clean the system: ZJ-Secc-8P-Power-Door-Locks about Door Locks.

Good luck!!!

You need to remove the panel from the liftgate and unlock and open it manually at the latch. It is not fun, but you can get the panel off with the hatch closed.

The liftgate consists of the following components:

• liftgate door lock actuator
• liftgate lock cylinder (if equipped)
• liftgate window glass
• liftgate window latch/ajar switch
• liftgate window glass release handle
• liftgate latch remote control which consists of the following component:
  • liftgate release handle
• liftgate latch, which consist of the following component:
  • liftgate latch door ajar switch

Liftgate Latch Actuator Removal and Installation

1. Remove the liftgate latch remote control. For additional information, refer to Liftgate Latch Remote Control in this section.

SECTION 501-14: Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems 2001 Escape Workshop Manual
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION Liftgate Latch Removal and Installation

1. Remove the liftgate trim panel.

1. Disconnect the liftgate ajar switch electrical connector.

1. Disconnect the liftgate latch actuating rod.
   1. Open the clip.
   1. Disconnect the actuating rod.

1. Remove and discard the liftgate latch bolts.

1. Remove the liftgate latch.

1. NOTE: Make sure the liftgate latch release rod is not preloading the latch. It should be clipped in a relaxed state with no slack.
   NOTE: Position the liftgate latch release rod by pushing outboard to remove the slack.
   

1. Remove the screws and the liftgate latch actuator