This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tailgate latch power lock actuator on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK with hardtop or soft top.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tailgate latch power lock actuator assembly × 1 — Mopar 68064603AA or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Open the liftgate/tailgate fully and support with the support struts or prop securely
3. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for system discharge
4. Gather all tools and the replacement actuator
5. Take photos of the interior trim panel configuration before disassembly for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal bolt. Move the cable away from the battery post and secure it so it cannot make contact during the repair.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove liftgate interior trim panel
   From inside the cargo area, locate the plastic trim panel covering the liftgate latch mechanism. Remove the T30 Torx screws securing the panel (typically 2-4 screws depending on configuration). Use trim panel removal tools to carefully release the retaining clips around the perimeter. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the rear wiper or washer if equipped, then remove the panel completely.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Access the latch actuator
   With the trim panel removed, locate the power lock actuator mounted to the side of the latch assembly. It will be a small motor unit with a single electrical connector and typically 2-3 mounting screws. Clean any dirt or debris from the area with a shop towel to prevent contamination of the latch mechanism.
4. 4

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the actuator electrical connector and pull straight out to disconnect. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation. If the connector is corroded or difficult to remove, use a small amount of electrical contact cleaner and allow it to penetrate before attempting removal.
5. 5

   Remove actuator mounting fasteners
   Using the T30 Torx driver, remove the screws securing the actuator to the latch assembly (typically 2 screws). Support the actuator with one hand while removing the final fastener to prevent it from falling into the door cavity.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove actuator from latch linkage
   The actuator connects to the latch mechanism via a plastic link rod or lever. Carefully disengage the actuator drive arm from the latch linkage by rotating or sliding it out of the connection point. Note the exact orientation and position of the link rod for proper installation of the new actuator. Some models use a clip retention system that must be compressed before removal.
7. 7

   Install new actuator to linkage
   Position the new actuator and engage the drive arm with the latch linkage in the exact orientation noted during removal. Ensure the link rod is fully seated and any retaining clips are properly engaged. Manually cycle the actuator arm to verify smooth movement before securing with fasteners.
   ⚠The actuator linkage must be properly aligned or the latch will not function. Incorrect installation can prevent the liftgate from latching securely.
8. 8

   Install actuator mounting fasteners
   Position the actuator against the mounting surface and install the T30 Torx screws. Torque the screws to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even mounting pressure. Verify the actuator is firmly seated and does not have excessive play.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Route the wiring harness as noted during removal, ensuring it does not interfere with the latch mechanism or moving parts. Connect the electrical connector to the actuator until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated.
10. 10

    Reinstall trim panel
    Reconnect any electrical connectors for rear wiper/washer if equipped. Position the trim panel and align all retaining clips. Press firmly around the perimeter until all clips are seated. Install the T30 Torx screws and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery
    Clean the battery terminal and cable end with a wire brush if corrosion is present. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery post and install the terminal bolt. Torque to specification.
    ⚠Ensure the terminal connection is clean and tight to prevent electrical system issues.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. All components are reinstalled during the main procedure steps
2. Ensure no tools or fasteners are left in the liftgate cavity before closing
3. Verify wiring harness routing does not interfere with latch operation

Verification

• With the liftgate open, use the key fob to lock and unlock the vehicle. Listen and feel for the actuator operating smoothly without binding or unusual noise
• Close the liftgate and verify it latches securely. Attempt to open it from the outside to confirm the latch is engaged
• Lock the vehicle with the key fob and verify the tailgate is locked by attempting to open from the exterior handle
• Unlock the vehicle and verify the tailgate opens normally from the exterior handle
• Test the power lock function at least 5 complete cycles (lock/unlock) to ensure consistent operation
• Drive the vehicle around the block and verify the liftgate remains securely latched over bumps and normal driving conditions
• If any operation is inconsistent or the liftgate does not latch securely, stop driving immediately and recheck the actuator installation and linkage engagement

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