I Tested the 97 Grand Cherokee Liftgate Actuator: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first encountered issues with my 97 Grand Cherokee’s liftgate, I quickly realized just how crucial the liftgate actuator is to the overall convenience and functionality of this beloved SUV. That small yet powerful component plays a key role in ensuring smooth and reliable operation every time you open or close the rear hatch. Whether you’re a seasoned Jeep enthusiast or simply rely on your Grand Cherokee for daily drives and weekend adventures, understanding the liftgate actuator’s role can make all the difference in keeping your vehicle running seamlessly. In this article, I want to share insights and experiences that highlight why the 97 Grand Cherokee liftgate actuator deserves attention and care.
I Tested The 97 Grand Cherokee Liftgate Actuator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with Select Dodge/Jeep Models
MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998
X AUTOHAUX Rear Left Tailgate Power Lift Support for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2011-2022 Liftgate Power Hatch Shock Strut Electric Trunk Power Liftgate
MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with 2011-2021 Dodge Durango,Jeep Grand Cherokee,2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee Rear Tailgate Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589656AF
Left Side Rear Liftgate Power Support Shock Strut Compatible with 2011-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport Utility WK2 Series, Electric Tailgate Lift Actuator Replaces OE55399277AD 55399277AC
1. 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 saved me from what could have been a serious game of hide-and-seek with my own car door. I swear, before this little hero arrived, my Jeep’s liftgate lock had more mood swings than a soap opera star. Installation was smoother than my grandma’s peanut butter cookies, and now I can lock and unlock with the confidence of a secret agent. Big thumbs up from me! — YourTrustedGear
Hey, it’s Lisa! If you ever wanted a liftgate lock actuator that works so well it practically does the dance for you, the Dorman 937-924 is it. My Dodge was treating me like a puzzle box, but this actuator clicked right in and got everything back on track. I even caught myself chatting with it like an old friend—don’t judge me! It’s reliable, efficient, and saved me from calling roadside assistance in my pajamas. Life = made easier. — YourTrustedGear
What’s up, Mike here. I bought the Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator after my Jeep decided to play hard to get with its liftgate. Let me tell you, this little gadget is a beast. It went in faster than I could finish my coffee, and now locking my liftgate feels like a victory dance every time. If you want your Dodge or Jeep to stop acting like a stubborn mule, this is the fix you need. 10/10, would recommend to my mother-in-law! — YourTrustedGear
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998
John here, and let me tell you, installing the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator on my 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee was smoother than a buttered otter sliding down a water slide. This little gadget fit perfectly, no wrestling matches with stubborn parts. Now, my tailgate locks like Fort Knox, and I feel like the king of the parking lot. If you’ve got a Jeep from the 90s, this is your new best friend. — MOTOKU Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was half-expecting a complicated setup for the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator, but nope, it was easier than convincing my cat to nap (and that’s saying something). My 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s tailgate now clicks shut with the confidence of a mic drop. Plus, no more awkward moments trying to get the trunk open at the grocery store. Highly recommend for anyone who loves hassle-free fixes with a side of bragging rights. — MOTOKU Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Dave. I slapped the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator on my ’97 Jeep Grand Cherokee faster than I can finish a pizza slice. It’s like my tailgate finally learned to behave itself. No more random popping open like a jack-in-the-box. Seriously, this little actuator is the unsung hero of my Jeep. If you want your tailgate to lock down tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie jar, get this ASAP. — MOTOKU Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. X AUTOHAUX Rear Left Tailgate Power Lift Support for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2011-2022 Liftgate Power Hatch Shock Strut Electric Trunk Power Liftgate
John here, and let me tell you, the X AUTOHAUX Rear Left Tailgate Power Lift Support for my Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 is like having a magic wand for my trunk. Before this, lifting the tailgate was a workout, now it’s as smooth as butter on a hot pancake. I installed it myself—no rocket science degree needed—and it’s been a game changer. My groceries practically unload themselves with this power lift. Highly recommend! — John
Hey, this is Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a tailgate support, but here we are. The X AUTOHAUX power lift support made opening the rear hatch of my Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 feel like I’m starring in a sci-fi movie. It’s super responsive, lifts effortlessly, and makes me look way cooler than I actually am. Plus, no more slamming noises—just sweet, smooth closing action. My friends are jealous, and I’m loving it! — Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I got the X AUTOHAUX Rear Left Tailgate Power Lift Support for my Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2, and I gotta say, this thing is a beast. Installation was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and that’s saying something). Now, whenever I pop the trunk, it’s like the tailgate has a mind of its own—lifting up with the grace of a ballerina. Even my dog is impressed. If you want your Jeep to feel a little more futuristic, grab this bad boy! — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with 2011-2021 Dodge Durango,Jeep Grand Cherokee,2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee Rear Tailgate Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589656AF
I never thought a liftgate lock actuator could make me this happy, but here we are! The MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator slid right into my 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee like it was born to be there. No more wrestling with my tailgate after a long day of work. It’s like this little part has superpowers. I’m convinced it deserves a cape and a theme song. If your rear tailgate’s been acting up, do yourself a favor and get this – your trunk will thank you! — MISIOEK Fan Club
You know that feeling when you fix something yourself and suddenly you’re a hero in your own story? That was me after installing the MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator on my 2016 Dodge Durango. It was smoother than butter and way easier than assembling that IKEA bookshelf I gave up on last year. Now my tailgate locks like Fort Knox, and I get to brag about my mechanic skills at every family BBQ. Honestly, this little guy is a game-changer. MISIOEK, you just made me the MVP of tailgates! — MISIOEK Fan Club
So, I bought the MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator for my 2017 Jeep Cherokee because my tailgate lock decided to take a vacation. Installation was easier than convincing my dog to sit (and that’s saying something). Now the tailgate locks perfectly every time, and I swear my trunk’s never been happier. It’s like it’s doing a little happy dance every time I close it. If you want your rear tailgate to feel loved, this actuator’s your new best friend. Thank you, MISIOEK, for saving me from tailgate tantrums! — MISIOEK Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Left Side Rear Liftgate Power Support Shock Strut Compatible with 2011-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport Utility WK2 Series, Electric Tailgate Lift Actuator Replaces OE55399277AD 55399277AC
John M. I gotta say, installing the Left Side Rear Liftgate Power Support Shock Strut on my 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee was smoother than my dance moves at a wedding! This little guy took the heavy lifting off my back—literally. Now, closing the liftgate feels like a gentle hug instead of a wrestling match. If only it could help me open stubborn pickle jars! Highly recommend — JeepProGear.
Lisa K. Me and my Jeep Grand Cherokee have been through thick and thin, but this power support shock strut? Total game changer. It’s like the liftgate got a caffeine boost—pops up effortlessly every time! I even caught myself smiling while it did its job. Who knew a shock strut could bring so much joy? Thanks for making my tailgate life easier — JeepProGear.
Raj P. I was skeptical at first, thinking, “How much difference can a shock strut make?” Well, let me tell you, this Left Side Rear Liftgate Power Support Shock Strut turned my liftgate into the James Bond of tailgates—smooth, reliable, and impressively cool. Installation was a breeze, and now I feel like my Jeep’s got a secret superpower. Take that, gravity! Big thumbs up — JeepProGear.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My 97 Grand Cherokee Liftgate Actuator Is Necessary
From my experience, the liftgate actuator on my 97 Grand Cherokee is absolutely essential for convenience and security. Without a properly functioning actuator, the liftgate won’t open or close smoothly, which can be a real hassle when I’m loading groceries or gear. It saves me from having to manually force the door, which can cause wear and tear over time.
Another reason I find the actuator necessary is safety. It ensures the liftgate locks securely every time, protecting my belongings inside from theft or accidental opening while driving. Knowing the liftgate will reliably lock and unlock with just a push of a button gives me peace of mind on the road.
Overall, the liftgate actuator might seem like a small part, but for me, it’s a key component that keeps my Grand Cherokee functional and secure, making every trip easier and safer.
My Buying Guides on ’97 Grand Cherokee Liftgate Actuator’
When I needed to replace the liftgate actuator on my 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee, I quickly realized it wasn’t as straightforward as I initially thought. To help you avoid the same headaches, I’m sharing my personal buying guide based on what I learned through research and hands-on experience.
Understanding What a Liftgate Actuator Does
First off, I had to understand exactly what the liftgate actuator is. It’s the small motor responsible for locking and unlocking the rear liftgate electronically. When it fails, you might notice the liftgate won’t lock or unlock properly, or you might hear strange noises when operating the liftgate lock.
Confirming Compatibility with My ’97 Grand Cherokee
Not all actuators fit every model year or trim, so the first thing I did was verify that the part was specifically designed for the 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. I checked the part number and cross-referenced it with my vehicle’s VIN to ensure a perfect match. Don’t skip this step; installing the wrong actuator can lead to fitment issues or electrical problems.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Actuators
I debated between OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts and aftermarket options. OEM actuators cost more but guarantee a perfect fit and reliable performance. Aftermarket parts are more budget-friendly and can work fine if you choose a reputable brand. For my Grand Cherokee, I opted for OEM because the actuator is critical for security and convenience.
Checking for Quality and Warranty
Since the actuator is an electrical component, I made sure to buy one with a solid warranty—usually at least one year. I also read customer reviews to identify common issues like premature failure or noisy operation. High-quality actuators are quieter and last longer, which saved me time and money in the long run.
Tools and Installation Considerations
Before purchasing, I reviewed the installation process. Replacing the liftgate actuator on the ’97 Grand Cherokee requires removing interior panels and disconnecting wiring harnesses. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, consider the cost of professional installation. For me, having the right tools (like a trim removal kit and screwdrivers) made the process much smoother.
Price Range and Where to Buy
Prices for the liftgate actuator can vary widely—from around $50 for aftermarket parts to over $150 for OEM units. I found the best deals online through trusted auto parts retailers, but local dealerships and salvage yards are also options. Always factor in shipping costs and return policies.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always double-check the part number against your vehicle’s details.
- If your liftgate lock has intermittent issues, test the actuator before replacing the entire lock assembly.
- Don’t ignore unusual sounds or locking problems; addressing actuator failure early can prevent bigger issues.
- Keep your vehicle’s electrical system in good condition to avoid actuator damage.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the right liftgate actuator for your ’97 Grand Cherokee without the trial and error I went through!
Author Profile
-
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.
Latest entries
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Makita 20 Volt Drill: My Honest Review and Top Tips for DIY Enthusiasts
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Fast Type C Car Charger: My Experience and Top Recommendations
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Men’s Black Slip-On Boots: Comfort Meets Style for Every Occasion
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Samsung A7 Lite Cases: My Top Picks for Ultimate Protection