So, for the need of $1.68 little piece of plastic that broke I can't open the rear hatch. It's a 2 door so it has the split rear with the window on top that raises up manually. Found a video on YouTube that explains exactly where to drill a hole from inside the car just over the locking mechanism so you can manually unlatch it. So I did drill a hole, then a bigger hole and still could not find the release lever so before I take a reciprocating saw to it are there any other tricks that anyone knows of?

 

Good question. When I got my used 02 it came with a spare part, the latching mechanism. Apparently the PO had a similar issue. That wont help you though because I couldn't figure out how it worked so I threw it away.

I'm still leery of something breaking, so what is the $1.68 plastic thing that might prevent the problem from occurring?


thx

 

The blue thing-a-majig.

 

So, I found out how to access the manual latch from inside the Blazer. Actually I found the latch by drilling a bunch of holes. So if you only want to drill one hole and not destroying the inside of the tailgate let me know.

 

Thanks for explaining this. My rear window won't open, either. Neither by dash button, nor remote. Can just hear it whirrr. And the rear button has never worked. Yesterday I was sitting at Mcdonalds, after work, having my 2for1 coupon s & e Mcmuffins. Realizing I need something to drink and have juice boxes in the back (yes I was too cheap to buy a drink)......I press the dash button. There was an extra sound. Window no open. So, swearing, I ate my remaining muffin and drove home. Time to find my hole saw kit. Instructions very appreciated. I hope my 2002 ZR2 is configured the same as your 2001.

 

If you look at the back side of the tailgate upholstered panel(if you got it off), near the top, center of the carpeted area, you will see a cut out that allows access to the mechanism..You have to carefully peel the carpet back-from the inside of vehicle then go thru the hole with, say a screwdriver to release the window...then re-glue or just push back carpet when done...The push button is the biggest offender( of a no-open situation) but in these 2 cases-if you push the black button and get a response then it is usually the $1.68 plastic piece..good luck hope this helps someone..Jerry

 

Thanks, I'll try removing the carpet.

 

I found the hole in the top middle of the gate-carpet. Used a screwdriver and pushed that black stick thing to the left... makes same noise as when using the electric button. But nothing happens. Gate/hatch doesn't open. I don't know what I'm doing wrong.

 

I had the exact same problem. Made the noise but wouldn't open. I had to unbolt and remove the glass to get it open. Definitely not fun. And do be careful working with heavy metal tools near your window. Good luck.

 

try having someone pull on the outside handle as you move that 'stick' thing to the left..may require allittle muscle on the outside persons part, especially if the window hasn't been opened in awhile..jerry