the latch on the liftgate of my '98 Grand Caravan seems to be stuck in the latched position, even though the gate is up. Is there a simple way to pop it back up or down so that it will close? This is my catering delivery van and I really need it to work properly my tomorrow morning.

did you try to open it with the key instead of the handle release.short of that you might need to remove the inside panel and look for any metal rods that come from the power solenoid or key lock that seem disconnected.lube everything that moves there, might just be sticky mechanism

Hello. If the lift gate is up and the latch is closed. You can lift the handle and hold it while moving the latch with a screw driver or something. Then you will be able to close the door. Hope this helps.

the latch on the liftgate of my '98 Grand Caravan seems to be stuck in the latched position, even though the gate is up. Is there a simple way to pop it back up or down so that it will close? This is my catering delivery van and I really need it to work properly my tomorrow morning.

My lift gate on a 99 Grand Caravan was locked and latched and would not open. Be prepared for some entertainment if your problem was the same as mine. The tar-covered poly sheeting had fallen down in the heat of summer and apparently jammed the latch. This resulted in the key being unable to unlock the latch and the neither the remote or driver door control would unlock the tailgate. Problem: broken plastic motor housing apparently caused by previously mentioned poly/tar sheeting. Approximately 35$ part from the dealer and two hours to remove and an hour or so to replace with mild cursing.

NOTE: The tailgate liftgate tail-gate liftgate rear hatch door can be unlocked by accessing a small (1 inch) diamater cover from inside the vehicle. Be prepared for your patience to be tested or hire someone else to do it. The two main clips that hold the interior panel to the lift-gate were quite a puzzlement to me. - though I'm an idiot.

If your lift gate just has the latch locked with it open it should open remotely or has been previously suggested us a screwdriver to put some pressure on the latch while using the key or remote switch or an assistant at the driver's door.

Note: Wait for moderate weather if attempting this outside.

I've been helped a lot by folks on the net and it's time for me to give a little back. Good luck.