Trunk/Liftgate Actuator

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power liftgate actuator on the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which controls the opening and closing of the rear hatch.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Liftgate actuator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 5 — GM 11589292 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Open the liftgate and support it in the fully open position
2. Disconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal located in the rear cargo area under the floor panel (wait 2 minutes after disconnection for system capacitors to discharge)
3. Ensure the liftgate is securely propped open with a suitable support or have an assistant hold it
4. Remove the liftgate lower interior trim panel by carefully prying out the retaining clips

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the actuator location
   With the liftgate trim panel removed, locate the liftgate actuator assembly on the driver's side of the liftgate frame. The actuator is mounted vertically near the hinge area. Remove any protective covers or additional trim pieces blocking access to the actuator mounting bolts and electrical connector.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the actuator motor. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the actuator. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage. If corrosion is present, clean with electrical contact cleaner before reinstallation.
3. 3

   Mark actuator rod position
   Before disconnecting the actuator linkage, use a marker or tape to mark the current position of the actuator rod relative to the mounting bracket. This will help with proper alignment during reinstallation. Note the orientation of any washers or spacers on the linkage connection points.
4. 4

   Disconnect actuator linkage
   Locate the ball joint or clip connection where the actuator rod attaches to the liftgate linkage. Remove the retaining clip or release the ball joint connection. Support the actuator as you disconnect it to prevent it from falling or the linkage from moving suddenly. The actuator will now be free from the liftgate mechanism.
   ⚠Ensure liftgate is still properly supported. Do not allow the liftgate to move or close during this step.
5. 5

   Remove actuator mounting bolts
   Remove the mounting bolts securing the actuator to the liftgate frame using a 10mm socket. There are typically two to three bolts holding the actuator bracket to the liftgate structure. Support the actuator weight as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from dropping.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove actuator assembly
   Carefully withdraw the actuator assembly from the liftgate, maneuvering it through the access opening in the liftgate frame. Inspect the mounting area for any damage, rust, or debris. Clean the mounting surface if necessary to ensure proper seating of the new actuator.
7. 7

   Install new actuator assembly
   Position the new actuator into the liftgate frame in the same orientation as the removed unit. Align the mounting holes with the liftgate frame. Install the mounting bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Verify the actuator bracket is flush against the mounting surface.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Connect actuator linkage
   Extend or retract the new actuator rod to match the position marked during disassembly. Connect the actuator rod to the liftgate linkage using the ball joint or clip connection. Ensure the connection is fully seated and secure. Install any retaining clips, washers, or spacers in their original positions. Verify the linkage moves smoothly without binding.
9. 9

   Connect electrical connector
   Route the electrical connector to the actuator motor terminal. Ensure no wires are pinched or stretched. Push the connector firmly onto the actuator until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and test operation
    Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and torque to specification. With the liftgate still manually supported, turn the ignition to ON (do not start). Test the liftgate actuator operation using the key fob or interior switch. The liftgate should open and close smoothly without binding or unusual noise. Observe the actuator during operation to ensure proper function.
    ⚠Keep hands and body clear of the liftgate path during the first test cycle in case of malfunction.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall trim panels
    Once operation is verified, reinstall the liftgate lower interior trim panel. Align the trim panel with the mounting locations and press firmly to seat all retaining clips. Replace any damaged clips with new ones. Ensure all trim pieces are flush and secure.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
3. Check that no tools or parts were left in the liftgate cavity
4. Confirm all trim panels are properly installed and secure

Verification

• Test liftgate operation multiple times using both the key fob and interior button to ensure consistent function
• Verify the liftgate opens and closes smoothly without hesitation, binding, or unusual noises
• Check that the liftgate stops properly in the fully open and fully closed positions
• Test the obstruction detection feature by placing a soft object in the liftgate path during closing
• Verify the liftgate latches securely when fully closed and the interior latch releases properly
• Confirm no warning lights or messages appear on the instrument cluster related to the liftgate system

More procedures for this vehicle