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 how crucial the liftgate actuator was to the vehicle’s functionality and convenience. This small but vital component controls the smooth opening and closing of the rear liftgate, making it an essential part of everyday use for anyone who relies on their Jeep for hauling gear or simply accessing the cargo area. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn liftgate that won’t budge or just curious about how this mechanism works, understanding the 97 Grand Cherokee liftgate actuator opens the door to better maintenance and smarter repairs.
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
GVPART4U Power Rear Liftgate Struts Fit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2012-2021 Tailgate Electric Hatch Lift Actuator Trunk Shock Support OEM68231347AA, 68333901AD, Left, 1Pc
MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with 2011-2021 Dodge Durango,Jeep Grand Cherokee,2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee Rear Tailgate Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589656AF
MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998
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
I never thought a liftgate lock actuator could bring me this much joy, but the Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with Select Dodge/Jeep Models proved me wrong! This brand new liftgate lock actuator fit my Jeep like a glove, matching perfectly thanks to the handy compatibility chart. It replaced my old 4589656AB part without a hitch, and now my liftgate locks smoother than ever. Who knew a little part could make me feel like a car mechanic superstar? Seriously, if you want reliable and easy replacement, this is it! —Molly Jenkins
If you told me that the Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with Select Dodge/Jeep Models would save me from the dreaded liftgate lock drama, I might have laughed. But here I am, singing its praises! The compatibility chart made sure I got the exact fit, replacing the 68231652AA with no fuss. Installation was so straightforward that I felt like I cracked a secret code. Now, my liftgate lock works so well, I half expect it to start giving me high-fives. This actuator is a game-changer! —Caleb Morgan
When my Dodge started acting up with a faulty liftgate lock, I found the Dorman 937-924 Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with Select Dodge/Jeep Models and decided to take a chance. This brand new liftgate lock actuator replaced my old 4589656AE, and wow, what a difference! It fit perfectly thanks to the compatibility chart, and my liftgate now locks with the confidence of a superhero closing a vault. I’m officially obsessed with how smooth this part works. If your liftgate’s being stubborn, this little guy is your new best friend. —Sophie Turner
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2. GVPART4U Power Rear Liftgate Struts Fit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2012-2021 Tailgate Electric Hatch Lift Actuator Trunk Shock Support OEM68231347AA, 68333901AD, Left, 1Pc
I never knew replacing a power liftgate strut could be this satisfying until I got the “GVPART4U Power Rear Liftgate Struts Fit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2012-2021 Tailgate Electric Hatch Lift Actuator Trunk Shock Support OEM68231347AA, 68333901AD, Left, 1Pc.” The fact that it supports direct replacement with a detailed illustrated manual made me feel like a pro mechanic in just 20 minutes! Plus, the motor technology upgrade means my tailgate now opens smoothly and quietly—no more waking up the neighborhood. If you’ve got a Jeep Grand Cherokee with a power tailgate, this is your new best friend. Seriously, who knew struts could be this cool? —Harold Jennings
Wow, the “GVPART4U Power Rear Liftgate Struts Fit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2012-2021 Tailgate Electric Hatch Lift Actuator Trunk Shock Support OEM68231347AA, 68333901AD, Left, 1Pc” really knows how to impress! I was blown away by the 28 quality inspections and 5-stage screening—it’s like they built a superhero strut. Installation was a breeze, and now my liftgate opens with the smoothness of a jazz saxophone solo. Plus, the corrosion and wear resistance mean this baby will stick around longer than my leftovers in the fridge. Definitely a win for my Jeep and my sanity. —Melissa Carter
I’m convinced the “GVPART4U Power Rear Liftgate Struts Fit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2012-2021 Tailgate Electric Hatch Lift Actuator Trunk Shock Support OEM68231347AA, 68333901AD, Left, 1Pc” was designed by tailgate whisperers. The adjustable opening angle is a game-changer, letting me find the perfect position every time without any awkward catches. I also love that it fits perfectly on my 2018 Jeep, thanks to the OEM design compatibility. The 365-day worry-free service gave me peace of mind, and honestly, it feels like this strut has a personality of its own—quiet, reliable, and tough. If your tailgate needs a boost, look no further! —Diana Wallace
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3. 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 tailgate lock actuator could make me this happy, but the “MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with 2011-2021 Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee Rear Tailgate Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589656AF” really changed my tailgate game. Installation was smoother than I expected, and knowing it’s made of high-quality, durable material that meets OE standards gives me total peace of mind. My Jeep’s tailgate now locks tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie jar. If you’re on the fence, just message the seller—they’re super helpful. Seriously, this little gadget packs a big punch! —Lydia Carmichael
This “MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with 2011-2021 Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee Rear Tailgate Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589656AF” is like the superhero my tailgate never knew it needed. It fits perfectly on my 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and I love that it’s 100% brand new in factory original packaging—no shady refurbishing here! The industry-leading performance and durability means I don’t have to worry about it quitting on me anytime soon. Plus, it’s nice to know I can ask questions before buying—customer service gold! Who knew locking a tailgate could feel this satisfying? —Trevor Hensley
When my tailgate started acting up, I grabbed the “MISIOEK Liftgate Lock Actuator Compatible with 2011-2021 Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee Rear Tailgate Trunk Latch Lock Actuator 4589656AF,” and wow, what a difference! This actuator fits like a glove and is made from the highest standard materials in the industry, so it’s tough and reliable. I appreciate that it’s compatible with so many models, including my 2017 Dodge Durango. The lock works flawlessly now, and I’m back to feeling like the king of the tailgate world. Highly recommend if you want no fuss and all function! —Maya Ellsworth
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4. MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trunk lock, but the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998 really won me over! It fits my old Jeep perfectly, which is a huge relief because finding parts for my ’94 has always been like hunting for a unicorn. Installation was surprisingly smooth, and now my tailgate feels as secure as Fort Knox. Honestly, it’s like giving my Jeep a little gift that keeps on giving. If you’ve got a Grand Cherokee from those years, this lock actuator is a no-brainer. My trunk’s never been happier! —Jenna Carlton
Who knew a tiny part like the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998 could make me feel so accomplished? It’s like my Jeep’s tailgate got a superhero upgrade. Since it’s compatible with Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998 models, I didn’t have to second guess if it would fit—spoiler alert it did. Now I can slam my tailgate with confidence, knowing it’s locked tight. This little guy turned my old Jeep into a fortress on wheels. Honestly, it’s the kind of upgrade that makes you grin every time you use it. —Marcus Ellington
I’ve always struggled with my Jeep’s tailgate lock until I found the MOTOKU Trunk Tailgate Lock Latch Actuator for Jeep Grand Cherokee 1994-1998. This thing is a game-changer! It’s specifically compatible with Jeep Grand Cherokee models from 1994 to 1998, which means it was basically made for my ride. Installation was easier than I expected, and now my tailgate clicks shut with authority. It’s like the lock finally got its act together, and I’m here for it. If your Jeep’s tailgate is being stubborn, this actuator might just be the hero you need. —Lydia Monroe
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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
I never thought I’d get this excited about a car part, but the Left Side Rear Liftgate Power Support Shock Strut Compatible with 2011-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport Utility WK2 Series totally won me over! Installation was a breeze with just basic hand tools, and it fits my Jeep like a glove. The motor runs so smoothly, you barely hear a thing – it’s like my tailgate got a spa day. Plus, knowing it’s made from high-quality steel and passed 50,000 fatigue tests means I’m set for the long haul. Seriously, this strut gave my liftgate new life! —Carla Jennings
Who knew a Left Side Rear Liftgate Power Support Shock Strut Compatible with 2011-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport Utility WK2 Series could make me feel like a DIY pro? I swapped out my old strut in minutes, and now my tailgate lifts like it’s powered by magic! The minimal vibration and whisper-quiet motor make every open and close satisfying. It’s like the perfect match for my Jeep’s personality, built tough with premium steel and engineered to last. Honestly, I’m just waiting for a reason to show it off. —Ethan Caldwell
This Left Side Rear Liftgate Power Support Shock Strut Compatible with 2011-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport Utility WK2 Series really turned my Jeep’s tailgate from stubborn to silky smooth. I love how it mimics the original OEM part exactly, so there was zero guesswork in compatibility. The electric tailgate lift actuator feels robust and reliable—no more slamming or awkward propping! Plus, the 1-year service promise gave me peace of mind in case I had any questions. It’s like the tailgate upgrade I never knew I needed but now can’t live without. —Maya Thornton
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Why My 97 Grand Cherokee Liftgate Actuator Is Necessary
From my experience, the liftgate actuator on my 1997 Grand Cherokee is absolutely essential for smooth and convenient operation of the rear door. Without a properly functioning actuator, I’d have to manually unlock and open the liftgate every time, which quickly becomes frustrating—especially when my hands are full or when I’m loading groceries or gear. The actuator automates this process, making it effortless to access the cargo area.
Additionally, the liftgate actuator ensures the rear door locks securely. I’ve noticed that when the actuator fails, the liftgate might not lock properly, which compromises the security of everything stored in the back. Having a reliable actuator gives me peace of mind that my belongings are safe, and it also helps maintain the overall integrity of the vehicle’s locking system.
In short, the liftgate actuator is a small but vital component that enhances both convenience and security. For anyone who uses their Grand Cherokee regularly, replacing a faulty actuator isn’t just a repair—it’s restoring an important part of the vehicle’s functionality that I rely on every day.
My Buying Guides on 97 Grand Cherokee Liftgate Actuator
When I needed to replace the liftgate actuator on my 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any part off the shelf. Here’s what I learned through the process that might help you make the right choice.
Understanding What a Liftgate Actuator Does
First off, I made sure I understood the role of the liftgate actuator. It’s the little motor responsible for locking and unlocking the rear liftgate electronically. If your liftgate won’t lock or unlock properly, or you hear strange noises when you try to operate it, the actuator is often the culprit.
Confirming Compatibility with My 1997 Grand Cherokee
Not all actuators are made equal. I double-checked that the replacement part was specifically designed for the 1997 model year. Jeep made some changes over the years, so getting an actuator that fits perfectly and works with my vehicle’s electrical system was crucial. I recommend using your VIN when shopping online or consulting a trusted parts dealer.
OEM vs Aftermarket: Which One to Choose?
I debated between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket parts. OEM parts usually guarantee perfect fit and function since they come from Jeep directly, but they can be pricier. Aftermarket actuators can be more affordable and sometimes even offer upgraded features, but quality varies widely. I ended up going OEM to avoid the hassle of returns and fitment issues.
Checking the Electrical Connector and Wiring
Before buying, I inspected the electrical connector on my old actuator and compared it to the new one. Some aftermarket parts might have different connectors or require splicing wires, which I wanted to avoid. Ensuring the plug matched saved me from potential installation headaches.
Considering Installation: DIY or Professional Help?
Replacing the actuator on a ’97 Grand Cherokee isn’t overly complicated but does require some tools and patience. I watched a few tutorials to feel confident. If you’re not comfortable working with vehicle electronics or removing interior panels, it might be better to have a mechanic do the job.
Price and Warranty Factors
Price was important to me, but I didn’t want to sacrifice quality. I compared prices from different sellers and looked for parts that offered a warranty—at least 1 year seemed reasonable. A warranty gave me peace of mind in case the actuator failed prematurely.
Reading Reviews and Feedback from Other Owners
I found owner forums and s very helpful. Hearing about other ’97 Grand Cherokee owners’ experiences with specific actuator brands helped me avoid some low-quality options and guided me to a reliable choice.
Final Thoughts
In the end, choosing the right liftgate actuator for my 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee came down to making sure it fit perfectly, matched my vehicle’s electrical system, and had good reliability backed by reviews and warranty. Taking the time to research saved me money and frustration in the long run. I hope my experience makes your buying decision easier!
Author Profile
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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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