The Chrysler Town and Country is a popular minivan known for its family-friendly features, including the convenient power liftgate.
However, like any advanced feature, the power liftgate can experience problems that affect its performance. Awareness of these potential issues ensures smooth operation and avoids unexpected inconveniences.
Power Liftgate Problems Reported
1. Liftgate Fails to Open or Close
One of the most common issues with the Chrysler Town and Country power liftgate is its failure to open or close. Owners report that their liftgate does not respond to the remote, interior button, or liftgate handle. This problem can be highly inconvenient, especially when access to the cargo area is needed urgently.
Several underlying causes can lead to this issue. Electrical problems, such as potential wiring, fuse, or liftgate control module faults, are the primary culprits.
These components can suffer from wear and tear over time or have manufacturing defects that lead to early failure. The liftgate motor can also fail, particularly in older vehicles where components are more likely to have degraded.
Many owners have shared their experiences on forums like AllPar and ChryslerMinivan.net. They often discuss instances of their liftgate failing to operate and highlight the need to inspect the wiring and motor thoroughly.
Chrysler has acknowledged these issues in technical service bulletins (TSBs), recommending detailed diagnostics to identify the exact problem.
Reviewers on Edmunds and RepairPal note that these failures are more common in older models, stressing the importance of regular maintenance to keep the liftgate functioning smoothly.
2. Intermittent Operation
Another frequently reported issue is the intermittent operation of the power liftgate. In this scenario, the liftgate sometimes responds to commands and sometimes doesn’t, making it unreliable.
This erratic behavior can be particularly frustrating for users who rely on the power liftgate for easy access to their vehicle’s cargo area.
Faulty sensors are often to blame for this problem. These sensors detect the position of the liftgate and can fail or become misaligned over time.
Also, software glitches in the liftgate control module can cause intermittent operation. These glitches can occur due to outdated software or corrupted firmware, which disrupts the normal communication between the liftgate components.
Users on Chrysler forums regularly discuss this issue, often finding that recalibration or replacement of the sensors is necessary. Chrysler advises checking the alignment of these sensors and updating the control module software to resolve the problem.
Reviews from Consumer Reports suggest that such issues can usually be traced back to sensor or software problems, and they recommend professional diagnostics to ensure the liftgate functions correctly.
3. Liftgate Opens or Closes Unexpectedly
Some Chrysler Town and Country owners have reported a more alarming issue: the liftgate opening or closing unexpectedly. This problem poses a significant inconvenience and a potential safety hazard, especially if the liftgate opens while the vehicle is in motion.
Electrical short circuits within the liftgate system often cause this unexpected operation. These short circuits can result from damaged wiring, corrosion, or water ingress.
Also, faulty key fobs or accidental button presses can trigger the liftgate to open or close without the user’s intention. The remote control system might send unintended signals due to interference or a malfunctioning remote.
Some owners have shared instances where their liftgate operated unexpectedly. These reports often link the issue to short circuits or problems with the remote. Chrysler advises checking the key fob for faults and inspecting the liftgate wiring for potential short circuits.
Automotive experts from sources like AutoWeek highlight the safety concerns associated with this issue and recommend thorough inspection and quick repair to prevent accidents.
4. Liftgate Stuck in Open or Closed Position
Another problem Chrysler Town and Country owners reported is the liftgate becoming stuck in either the open or closed position. This issue can prevent access to the vehicle’s cargo area or leave the vehicle’s rear unsecured.
Mechanical obstructions, such as debris in the liftgate tracks, commonly cause this problem. These obstructions can block the movement of the liftgate, preventing it from opening or closing.
Also, the hydraulic struts that assist in opening and closing the liftgate can fail. These struts are critical for the smooth operation of the liftgate, and if they lose pressure or become damaged, they can render the liftgate immobile.
Users on forums like ChryslerMinivan.net report instances of their liftgate getting stuck due to mechanical obstructions or failing struts.
Chrysler recommends inspecting the liftgate tracks and struts for any obstructions or signs of wear and replacing them if necessary.
Reviews from RepairPal and Edmunds suggest that liftgates often get stuck due to mechanical issues. They advise regular inspection and maintenance of the liftgate components to ensure they operate smoothly.
5. Liftgate Alignment Issues
Liftgate alignment issues are another problem that can affect Chrysler Town and Country. These problems cause the liftgate not to align properly when closed, resulting in gaps or difficulty in latching securely. Such misalignment can lead to water leaks, wind noise, and security concerns.
Misaligned or worn hinges are often the cause of these alignment issues. Over time, the hinges that support the liftgate can wear out, become loose, or shift out of position, preventing the liftgate from closing correctly. Also, any structural damage to the liftgate frame or the vehicle’s body can contribute to improper alignment.
Owners on Chrysler forums frequently discuss liftgate alignment problems, often needing hinge adjustments or bodywork to correct the issue.
Chrysler service bulletins suggest checking and adjusting liftgate hinges and inspecting for any structural damage causing the misalignment.
Car reviewers from MotorTrend emphasize the importance of proper alignment for performance and aesthetics, recommending professional adjustment if any alignment issues are present.
Conclusion
Common problems with the Chrysler Town and Country’s power liftgate can disrupt your convenience and vehicle reliability.
Issues like the liftgate failing to open or close, intermittent operation, unexpected movement, and alignment problems can be frustrating.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs can effectively address these challenges. By staying proactive and informed, you can keep your power liftgate functioning smoothly and enhance your vehicle’s overall reliability.