Rear Hatch Problem

I have a 2008 4Runner with a rear hatch that wont open. I've read through a lot of the other threads on common issues with the rear hatch, actuator, and switch and this one seems different.

If I reset the ECU and locks (unplug battery, plug battery back in, toggle door locks 3x), the door will open normally. However, once the door closes, the actuator runs once to seal the door, then after about 10-15 seconds, the actuator runs again. After the actuator runs the second time, the door becomes unresponsive and wont open until I perform the ECU/lock cycling again.
If I open the door before the second time the actuator runs, the door opens normally. I can do this as many times as I like, but once the actuator runs the second time, the door is effectively dead.

Just cycling the battery does not restore door functionality. I have to toggle the door locks as well.

Has anybody else come across an issue like this before? I have a replacement actuator motor and door switch I was going to install, but I suspect the issue may be related to the ECU for the rear door.

 

Did you check the wire bundle that goes into the rear door from the the main body of the truck? They're known for broken wires. If you have a broken wire, that could very well be your trouble.

Easy enough to repair, if you're a decent solderer. Don't use a butt splice, or anything like that. Just solder a small length of wire in to bridge the gap, with some heat shrink to protect the solder joins, and away you go.

Just a thought. I get so few anymore...
Pat☺

 

Probably best to ask this in the 4th gen forum. This is for 96-2002 4runners.

 

Whew...thanks for catching that. Big time dyslexia