Jeep Repair: Rear Hatch will not unlock, jeep cherokee laredo, rear hatch

Question
We have a 1999 Jeep Cherokee Laredo and the rear hatch/window will not unlock. There is a loud noise that sounds like the motor is moving however, it does not release. First, how can we manually get this open to repair and what should we look for once we can pull the panel off? Thanks!

Answer
You should be able to get in the back of the Jeep and take off the panel off.  It will probably not be easy but it is possible.  Take a look at the linkages, have someone work the door locks and the handle, and see what moves.  Make sure the linkages are not binding, and if they are see what is not moving and try to free it up.  Hope you will find this useful!