Date:         Mon, 1 Jul 2013 15:27:00 -0700
Reply-To:     Marc Janes <curme8@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Marc Janes <curme8@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Electronic lock, tailgate --- had this happen to you?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

Our electronic locks have functioned flawlessly for 20+ years, but now when we unlock our Eurovan (95) from the outside, using a key at the front door as usual, all doors open properly except for the tailgate.  


It stays locked, and lifting the handle does not cause the handle to engage the locking device, so it feels locked --- and it is!

We did succeed in a work-around:  re-locked the whole van (from outside, using key), and walked to the tailgate, turned the key cylinder to Unlock, and the handle now engages the locking mechanism to properly unlock the tailgate.   But again, no matter what other permutations we try, we cannot (yet) get the auto electronic unlock to work at the tailgate.

Any tips?

Our next move would likely be to remove the upholstered interior panel on the tailgate to inspect and observe the locking mechanism in action when someone activates the locking levers from one of the front doors.  Seems like it's more than a simple lubrication problem.  And I'd prefer not going to a dealer!

Help appreciated!

Marc Janes
Gig Harbor, WA