Grand Caravan FWD V6-3.8L VIN L (2001)
Trunk / Liftgate Switch: Description and Operation
EXTERIOR HANDLE SWITCH
Vehicles equipped with a power liftgate or power locks utilize a exterior handle switch. The exterior handle switch is a electronic release switch
mounted to the rear license plate lamp housing assembly, located just above the license plate. This switch controls the power liftgate release
function and is also capable of reversing the power liftgate when it is in motion. A full power open cycle cannot be performed using this switch,
only one of the power open command switches (key fob and overhead console mounted) can be used to perform a full power open cycle.
The exterior handle switch is a serviceable component. Consult your MoparTM parts catalog for a specific part number.
When the exterior handle switch is depressed, with the liftgate in the closed position. A message is sent to the Body Control Module (BCM). The
Body Control Module then sends a signal to the power liftgate control module via the J1850 PCI data bus circuit. The power liftgate control
module then sends a signal to the power latch mounted actuator, which moves the liftgate from the primary closed and latched position to the open
and movable position. If the liftgate is not pulled open once the latch releases within a few seconds, the latch will cinch closed again.
