Chrysler Repair: 2002 T & C: liftgate power latch problem, latch motor, striker plate

Question
My hatchback does not open using either the keyring option or the hatch opener interiorly.  When I use the keyring, thelights blink on (so there is power) but it almost makes a sound like it's trying to open but something is catching to prohibit.
Any thoughts?

Answer
Hi Kris,
The motor that operates the latch may be binding or need lubrication. I would open the liftgate and close the lock mechanism by hand or by use of the key ring or interior control so as to see if it will close when it doesn't actually have to latch to the striker plate.
If it will then I would lubricate the latch/striker plate interface with white grease or similar stick or thick lubricant. Then see if it will work again when the door is closed.
If it won't work when its not latched, then the release motor and the mechanism it drives may need lubrication. That requires removing the trim panel to reach it. Let me know if you need to do this and I can copy a page from the '98 manual that I have that shows how to remove the trim panel.
If that doesn't resolve the problem, then replacing the latch motor is the final step.
I hope you find it is just a matter of lubricating the interface of the actual mechanical latch and the striker plate on the body with which it mates.
Roland