Switch, Exterior Handle: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The power liftgate exterior handle switch is a momentary, plunger actuated, resistor multiplexed micro switch. The switch receives source voltage from the Power LiftGate Module (PLGM) through an internal pull up on a power liftgate logic return circuit. The switch then provides a multiplexed output to the PLGM on a liftgate switch MUX input 2 circuit. The output to the PLGM indicates whether the switch plunger is depressed or extended. When the switch plunger is extended, it provides an Open request to the PLGM.

An exterior handle switch input to the PLGM will begin a power Open cycle of the liftgate if the liftgate is fully closed when it occurs, will cancel a power Open cycle and put the power liftgate in manual operating mode if the liftgate is already in a power Open cycle when it occurs, will reverse the liftgate to open if it occurs during a power Close cycle, or may be used to home the latch as described in the Power Liftgate Latch Homing standard procedure. Refer to LATCH, LIFTGATE, STANDARD PROCEDURE .

The power liftgate exterior handle switch as well as the hard wired inputs and outputs of the switch may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. However, conventional diagnostic methods will not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the power liftgate system or the electronic controls and communication between other modules and devices that provide some features of the power liftgate system. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the power liftgate system or the electronic controls and communication related to power liftgate exterior handle switch operation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.