Rear Liftgate Auto-lock Mechanism Problem // 2008 SE Pathfinder

[jarrodward]

Hey guys.

Just got my SE last week and while at the Home Depot with a full load, found that the latch no longer worked...

Basically, I shut the back gate and it did not automatically latch itself. The gate closed properly, and it appeared fine (ie, all seals were tight on the body, etc), but I could just lift it open again. We played with every lock combination i could think of, but no luck. When I got home, I was able to lock the latch, but then not open the gate until we popped the secret entry on the inside of the gate and manually opened the gate. So, my amateur deduction is that the button to "open" the lift gate on the outside is not functioning properly with the mechanism.

I've made an appointment to take it back to the dealer on Monday, but I am concerned that there could be some liftgate issue that could have obviously devastating consequences if it were to just pop open, etc.

Is there any record of this problem, and have others experienced the same thing?? I searched this site and Google, but have found no other mention of the issue.

I appreciate your insight.

Jarrod WardGeorgia