The Nissan Path

So this morning the kids are trying to load their hockey equipment and the rear hatch wont open - tried several times locking and unlocking the door, but it still appeared to be in the locked mode. After several tries, it opened. Upon reaching our destination, it again wouldn't open. Any ideas why this is happening? Anyone else have this issue and what was the resolution? Thanks!

It could be that the latch is broken or the bolts holding it in are loose. One would need to remove the interior finisher on the hatch and inspect it to find out which. I would do so now before you cant get it open at all!

It appears to be electrical probably - it wont unlock and thus wont open

You didn't mention a year; early R51's were mechanical and around 2008 they went to electrically assisted. Still doesn't change the fix---the interior panel needs to be removed to investigate the problem.

If you have the cinch motor, it sounds like it may be failing. Mine would first act up when it got cold. It would work sporadically, occasionally blow the fuse, and then not at all. Took about a half hour to swap it out.

The motors appear to be working fine - It will close using the electrical assist (the door gets sucked in), just opening will not work. I have removed the panel; just when you pull on the rubber opener above the licence plate, it doesn't open the door.


2008 SE Model

I just wanted to follow-up on my post.

The problem was the switch - I removed the cover and replaced that and the problem was resolved.

The 2008 SE has a non-key tailgate release (a soft-touch rubbery switch) that opens the lift gate.

Took less than an hour to remove the panel, replace the switch and reinstall the panelling.

Thanks to everyone who responded with hints/advice.

do you happen to know the part number for the little rubbery switch? Mine just failed.

I'm sorry I don't have the part number. I provided my dealer my VIN and they brought it in for me. I was wary of ordering online since US and Canadian vehicles often have different parts/part numbers. I learned that the hard way. My suggestion is to go through your Nissan dealer. Hope this is helpful.

No worries. I'll reach out to the dealership. Thanks