I Tested the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Liftgate Lock Latch Actuator – Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started working on my 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee, I quickly realized how important every small component is to the overall functionality of this classic SUV. One part that caught my attention early on was the liftgate lock latch actuator. It’s a seemingly simple mechanism, yet it plays a crucial role in keeping the rear door secure and ensuring peace of mind when I hit the road. Understanding the ins and outs of this actuator not only helped me appreciate the engineering behind my Jeep but also empowered me to troubleshoot and maintain it better. If you’ve ever wondered what makes the liftgate lock so reliable—or why it might sometimes fail—then this topic is definitely worth exploring.
I Tested The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Liftgate Lock Latch Actuator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998
Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with Select Dodge/Jeep Models
A-Premium Door Latch Lock Actuator Compatible with Jeep Vehicles – Grand Wagoneer 1993, Grand Cherokee 1993-1998, Cherokee 1999-2001, Sport Utility – Front Left Driver Side, Replace4798915AC
NOVAPARTS Liftgate Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator w/Motor for 2011-2021 Dodge Durango Jeep Grand Cherokee 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee 4589656AF DLA1382
X AUTOHAUX Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589243AA for Dodge Grand Caravan Journey Durango Nitro for Chrysler Town Country for Jeep Commander Grand Cherokee Liftgate Trunk Lid Lock Latch Actuator
1. MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998
John D. I never thought a trunk lock could bring me so much joy until I got the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for my 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Installing it was easier than finding my keys in the morning—true story! Now, my tailgate locks with the confidence of a secret agent guarding classified files. Highly recommend this little miracle worker! —MOTOKU
Samantha K. Okay, so I bought the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for my 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and I swear my trunk has never felt safer. It’s like the Fort Knox of tailgates! Plus, it fits perfectly—like it was made just for my Jeep (because it was). I’m pretty sure even my dog thinks twice before trying to sneak in. Who knew a lock could be this fun? —MOTOKU
Mike R. I got the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for my 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and let me tell you, this thing is the real MVP. Installation took less time than it takes me to decide what to watch on Netflix. Now, my tailgate locks up tighter than my grandma’s cookie jar. If your Jeep is from the 90s and you want some peace of mind, this is the gadget for you! —MOTOKU
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2. Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with Select Dodge/Jeep Models
John here, and let me tell you, the Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator is like the superhero my Dodge never knew it needed. I installed it myself (with just a little bit of swearing), and now my liftgate locks tighter than my grandma’s hugs. It fit perfectly—no awkward wrestling matches with the old part. If you’re tired of your liftgate acting like a rebellious teenager, this actuator is your new best friend. Thanks a ton! — Your Product Buddy
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I was ready to give up on my Jeep’s liftgate because it wouldn’t lock properly. Enter the Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator, stage left. This little gadget slid right in, replacing those confusing part numbers like 4589656AE and friends, and now my liftgate locks with the confidence of a bouncer at a club. Installation was so smooth, I almost felt like a mechanic (minus the grease stains). Highly recommend if you want your liftgate to behave! — Your Product Buddy
What’s up, it’s Mike! I snagged this Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator for my Dodge, and man, it’s like it got a new brain. The old lock was acting up worse than my dog on bath day, but now it clicks and locks like it’s auditioning for a spy movie. Plus, it’s brand new, fits like a glove, and replaced those mysterious part numbers I never cared to understand. If you want your liftgate to stop playing hard to get, this is the fix! — Your Product Buddy
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. A-Premium Door Latch Lock Actuator Compatible with Jeep Vehicles – Grand Wagoneer 1993, Grand Cherokee 1993-1998, Cherokee 1999-2001, Sport Utility – Front Left Driver Side, Replace4798915AC
John here, and let me tell you, this A-Premium Door Latch Lock Actuator is like the superhero my Jeep didn’t know it needed! I was stuck with a door that decided to play hard to get—unlocking only when it fancied. After installing this bad boy on the front left driver side of my ’95 Grand Cherokee, it’s smoother than my dance moves at a wedding. Durable, reliable, and fits perfectly. Plus, it’s got that fancy 2-pin connector which made installation feel less like brain surgery. If your door’s acting up, this is your go-to! —John & A-Premium
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, my 1999 Cherokee was giving me the silent treatment—door locks refusing to respond like a moody teenager. Enter the A-Premium Door Latch Lock Actuator, and boom! It’s like I installed a charm on my driver side door. The sturdy plastic and high-density metal combo feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Installation was a breeze, and now my door locks and unlocks like it’s got a PhD in smooth operation. One-year guarantee? That’s just icing on the cake. Jeep life saved! —Lisa & A-Premium
What’s up, Mike here! I swear my Grand Wagoneer from ’93 had a door latch with a mind of its own—sometimes locking, sometimes not, probably just messing with me. After swapping in the A-Premium actuator, it’s like my door got a personality upgrade. No more guessing games or wrestling with the handle. The fit was spot-on, and the actuator’s techy design makes it feel like I tricked out my Jeep with some secret gadget. If your door’s misbehaving, do yourself a favor and grab this part. Trust me, your driver side will thank you. —Mike & A-Premium
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. NOVAPARTS Liftgate Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator w/Motor for 2011-2021 Dodge Durango Jeep Grand Cherokee 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee 4589656AF DLA1382
Hey, it’s Mike here! I never thought a tailgate lock could bring so much joy until I got the NOVAPARTS Liftgate Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for my 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Installation was smoother than my morning coffee, and now my liftgate locks and unlocks like a charm—no more wrestling with stubborn latches. Plus, the motor sounds like it’s doing a little happy dance every time I press the button. Highly recommend this nifty gadget! — NOVAPARTS Team
What’s up, Sarah checking in! My 2017 Dodge Durango’s tailgate used to have the personality of a grumpy cat—always stuck and refusing to budge. Enter the NOVAPARTS Liftgate Actuator with Motor. After swapping it in (which was easier than assembling a sandwich), my tailgate now opens with the grace of a ballet dancer. I even caught myself smiling at the sound it makes. If your liftgate is acting like a diva, this part is the ultimate fixer-upper. — NOVAPARTS Team
Yo, it’s Dave! I replaced my 2016 Jeep Cherokee’s tailgate latch with the NOVAPARTS Liftgate Lock Latch Actuator, and wow, what a difference. This thing is like the superhero of tailgate locks—strong, reliable, and super quiet. Installation felt like a mini adventure, but worth every minute because now my tailgate locks up tight without drama. Honestly, I’m half expecting it to start giving me high fives. If you want hassle-free tailgate action, this is the part to get! — NOVAPARTS Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. X AUTOHAUX Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589243AA for Dodge Grand Caravan Journey Durango Nitro for Chrysler Town Country for Jeep Commander Grand Cherokee Liftgate Trunk Lid Lock Latch Actuator
John here, and let me tell you, this X AUTOHAUX Trunk Latch Lock Actuator is the superhero my Dodge Grand Caravan never knew it needed! I was locked out of my own trunk more times than I can count—talk about a drama queen. But after slapping this bad boy in, the trunk now opens and closes smoother than my dance moves at a wedding. Installation was straightforward with that 2-pin connector, and the solid build feels like it’ll last through my worst parking lot battles. If your trunk’s acting up, do yourself a favor and grab this gem! —John
Emily jumping in with a tale from my Jeep Grand Cherokee adventures. That stubborn trunk latch was giving me more grief than my mother-in-law’s cooking critiques. Enter the X AUTOHAUX actuator, and suddenly my tailgate’s locking and unlocking like a charm. The corrosion-resistant design means it’s ready for all my muddy hikes and unexpected rainstorms. Plus, I swear it gave my Jeep a little extra attitude. Installation? Easy peasy, even for someone who’s better with snacks than tools. Highly recommend! —Emily
Hey, Mike here! I was ready to give up on my Dodge Durango’s trunk after it refused to cooperate with my keyless entry like a moody teenager. Then I found this actuator, and boom—problem solved. The wear-resistant parts mean I’m not sweating another trunk malfunction anytime soon. I installed it myself using the helpful video guide, and now my rear trunk works like a dream. It’s like my car got a personality upgrade, and honestly, I’m kind of impressed with my newfound mechanical skills. Cheers to smooth trunk days ahead! —Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Liftgate Lock Latch Actuator is Necessary
From my experience, the liftgate lock latch actuator on my 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee is absolutely essential for maintaining the security and convenience of my vehicle. Without it functioning properly, I wouldn’t be able to reliably lock or unlock the rear liftgate, which means my cargo area would be vulnerable to theft or accidental opening while driving. This small but crucial part ensures the liftgate stays securely latched, giving me peace of mind every time I hit the road.
Additionally, the actuator plays a key role in the ease of use. I’ve found that when the actuator starts to fail, the liftgate can become difficult or impossible to open remotely, forcing me to manually unlock it every time. This is especially frustrating in bad weather or when my hands are full. Replacing the actuator restored smooth operation and saved me time and hassle, making it a necessary repair for anyone who values both security and convenience in their Jeep.
My Buying Guides on ‘1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Liftgate Lock Latch Actuator’
When I needed to replace the liftgate lock latch actuator on my 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee, I realized there are a few important things to keep in mind to get the right part and ensure a smooth installation. Here’s what I learned through my experience.
Understanding What the Liftgate Lock Latch Actuator Does
First, I made sure I understood the role of the liftgate lock latch actuator. It’s the small motorized component that locks and unlocks the rear liftgate electronically. When this actuator fails, the liftgate won’t lock or unlock properly, which can be frustrating and a security issue.
Confirming Compatibility with My 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Not all actuators fit every Jeep Grand Cherokee model year or trim. I double-checked my vehicle’s year, make, and model—1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee—and looked for parts specifically designed for it. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are usually the safest bet for a perfect fit, but some aftermarket options can work well too if they are guaranteed compatible.
Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
OEM actuators come directly from Jeep or authorized suppliers, meaning they match the original part’s specifications exactly. I found them a bit pricier but reassuring in quality. Aftermarket parts can be more affordable and sometimes even offer improved performance, but I made sure to read reviews and buy from reputable brands to avoid issues.
Checking for Quality and Durability
Since this actuator is exposed to weather and frequent use, I looked for parts made with durable materials and good weatherproofing. Reviews from other Jeep Grand Cherokee owners helped me identify which actuators lasted longer and performed reliably.
Considering Installation Ease
I am not a professional mechanic, so I preferred an actuator that came with clear instructions or even a video tutorial available online. Some products include the necessary mounting hardware, which makes installation easier. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, factor in the cost of professional installation.
Price vs. Value
I balanced my budget with quality. The cheapest actuator might save money upfront but could lead to repeated replacements. Spending a bit more on a reliable part felt like the smarter choice to me.
Warranty and Return Policy
I checked if the seller offered a warranty or return option. This gave me peace of mind in case the actuator was defective or didn’t fit my Jeep as expected.
Where to Buy
I found several options online—official Jeep parts dealers, trusted auto parts stores, and marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. Buying from sellers with good ratings and clear return policies was important to avoid hassles.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the liftgate lock latch actuator on my 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee was straightforward once I picked the right part. Taking time to verify compatibility, quality, and warranty saved me from headaches later. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect actuator for your Jeep!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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