Trunk/Liftgate Actuator

This procedure replaces the trunk/liftgate actuator on a 2017 Maserati Levante, which controls the power opening and closing function of the rear liftgate.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Trunk/Liftgate Actuator Assembly × 1 — Use OEM Maserati part number
• Trim panel clips (assorted) × 5 — Have spares available

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Open liftgate fully and ensure it remains in open position
3. Place protective blanket over rear bumper to prevent scratches
4. If using battery memory saver, connect it now before battery disconnection
5. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent electrical short and allow systems to power down (wait 5 minutes after disconnection)
6. Have assistant ready to support liftgate weight or install support prop before actuator removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt and remove the negative cable from the battery. Secure the cable away from the battery post. Wait 5 minutes for all vehicle systems to fully discharge before proceeding.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove liftgate interior trim panel
   From inside the cargo area, use trim removal tools to carefully pry and remove the liftgate interior trim panel. Start from the bottom corners and work around the perimeter. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the liftgate handle, lighting, or wiper if equipped. Remove the panel completely and set aside with fasteners organized.
3. 3

   Locate and access the actuator
   With the trim panel removed, locate the liftgate actuator assembly mounted inside the liftgate structure. It will be positioned on one side (typically driver side) and connected to the liftgate mechanism via a linkage arm. Identify the electrical connector, mounting bolts, and linkage attachment points.
4. 4

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the actuator electrical connector and carefully disconnect it. If the connector is secured with a screw, remove it first using appropriate driver. Mark the connector orientation with tape if needed for easier reinstallation.
5. 5

   Support the liftgate
   Have your assistant physically support the liftgate weight, or install a liftgate support prop between the liftgate and vehicle body. The liftgate will lose power assistance once the actuator is removed. Ensure the support is secure and stable before proceeding.
   ⚠️Do not proceed without adequate liftgate support. The gate can fall suddenly once actuator is disconnected, causing serious injury.
6. 6

   Disconnect actuator linkage
   Locate the ball joint or clip connection where the actuator arm connects to the liftgate mechanism. Depending on design, either pry the clip off using a small flat screwdriver or press the release tab to disconnect the linkage arm from the mechanism. Note the orientation of the connection for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove actuator mounting bolts
   Using 10mm or 13mm socket (verify size on your specific vehicle), remove the actuator mounting bolts. There are typically 3-4 bolts securing the actuator to the liftgate frame. Support the actuator with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove old actuator
   Carefully extract the old actuator assembly from the liftgate, maneuvering it past any obstructions. Note the routing of any attached brackets or ground straps. Inspect the mounting points for damage or corrosion and clean if necessary.
9. 9

   Prepare new actuator
   Unpack the new actuator and verify it matches the old unit in size, mounting hole pattern, and connector type. If the actuator came with a protective shipping lock or pin, remove it according to manufacturer instructions. Transfer any necessary brackets from the old actuator if they are not included with the new unit.
10. 10

    Install new actuator
    Position the new actuator into the liftgate mounting location, aligning the mounting holes with the frame. Thread in all mounting bolts hand-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, torque them in a cross pattern to specification using a torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Connect actuator linkage
    Reconnect the actuator arm to the liftgate mechanism linkage point. Ensure the ball joint snaps fully into place or the clip is properly seated. Tug gently on the connection to verify it is secure and will not separate during operation.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Plug the electrical connector back into the new actuator, ensuring it clicks into place securely. If there was a connector securing screw, reinstall and tighten to specification. Verify the connector lock tab is fully engaged.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Return to the battery and reconnect the negative terminal. Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and wait for all systems to initialize. Check for any warning lights related to liftgate operation on the instrument cluster.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Test actuator function
    With liftgate still supported, use the key fob or interior button to activate the liftgate. The actuator should engage and begin moving the liftgate. Test both opening and closing operations. Listen for unusual noises and verify smooth operation through full range of motion. If operation is not correct, check all connections and linkages.
15. 15

    Reinstall trim panel
    Once actuator function is verified, reconnect any electrical connectors for trim panel components (handle, lights, wiper). Align the trim panel with the liftgate and press firmly to engage all clips. Verify all clips are fully seated and the panel is flush with the liftgate surface.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
3. Confirm liftgate trim panel is properly secured with no gaps or loose areas
4. Reset any vehicle settings that were lost during battery disconnection (clock, radio presets, window auto functions)
5. Some Maserati vehicles may require a liftgate calibration procedure through the infotainment system - consult owner's manual if liftgate does not operate smoothly

Verification

• Test liftgate power operation multiple times from both key fob and interior button to ensure consistent performance
• Verify liftgate opens and closes fully without binding, unusual noises, or stopping mid-cycle
• Check that liftgate latches securely when closed and verify interior latch release functions correctly
• Confirm no warning lights or messages appear on instrument cluster related to liftgate system
• Test obstacle detection feature by placing a soft object in the liftgate path during closing - it should reverse
• Verify liftgate hold-open position works correctly and gate does not drift closed or open on its own
• Inspect all trim panels for proper fitment and ensure no rattles are present when driving

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