Just to check before I cut into it, is there any way to get the back hatch open if the locking/unlocking/handle mechanism isn't working? The (female) PO backed into something and messed up the bumper, and the lock isn't disengaging. Figured I'd cut a little hole from the inside and actuate it manually, but if there's a better way, that'd be great.

 

I don't know what the story was behind my $300.00 89xj, but when I bought it the keyhole plate and guts were missing from the hatch release. I didn' notice until I got home, but I found a very large flathead screwdriver in the back floorboard, so i stabbed it into the button release, and it opened right up. I got a whole new setup from the pick-some pieces yard for about $5. Now she's good as new. (Try to find a crashed one with the key inside).

 

pull the panel off in the inside

 

This is the proper way to remove it!

 

Only problem is the screws to pull the panel off run along the outside edges. Currently blocked because the hatch is closed.

 

go in from where the window meets the trim thats what i had to do

 

hmm i had to do it before when the rod slipped on my 99. i pried the top away enough to get my hand in there. after it was open i removed the panel

 

There is no need to cut into it. Just unscrew 4 screws at the top and you can pop it out far enough to manually move all the parts by hand.

 

if any thing there might be 2 screws at the top, but its all push in snap things there shouldnt be any screws unless they put some in it... try prying it from the bottom side ect. from the inside it should lift right up from the bottom after it is losse..

 

Yeah you may end up cracking it trying to get it off but once its off its very simple. From the inside looking at the latch mechanism their is a pin type thing on the right side. Just push straight out and its open.

 

Oh sweet. I'll check that out tomorrow. Thanks.