2020 Explorer Power Liftgate Not Opening: Diagnosis & Fixes

Experiencing a power liftgate malfunction on your 2020 Ford Explorer can be a significant inconvenience, especially when you rely on its automatic operation for loading groceries, gear, or family essentials. When your 2020 Explorer power liftgate is not opening or closing as it should, it often defaults to manual operation, signaling an underlying issue that needs attention. This guide will walk you through the common symptoms, diagnostic steps, and potential fixes to get your liftgate working smoothly again.

What drivers notice on this 2020 Ford Explorer

Drivers of the 2020 Ford Explorer typically encounter several frustrating symptoms when their power liftgate system develops a fault. These issues often begin subtly before becoming a persistent problem:

• The liftgate fails to open or close automatically using the key fob, interior button, or exterior handle button.
• The liftgate opens partially and then stops, sometimes requiring manual intervention to complete its travel.
• The liftgate closes partially and then re-opens, indicating an obstruction detection or calibration issue.
• Unusual noises, such as grinding, clicking, or whirring sounds, may accompany attempts to operate the liftgate.
• The liftgate may operate intermittently, working sometimes and failing at others.
• Warning messages related to the liftgate system might appear on the instrument cluster.
• The liftgate may be completely unresponsive to all electronic commands, forcing manual use.

At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow

• Difficulty Rating: 6/10 — Moderate
• Common Symptoms: No response: Pressing the key fob, interior, or exterior liftgate buttons yields no action from the liftgate motor.; Partial movement: The liftgate starts to open or close but stops abruptly, often accompanied by a chime or warning.; Unusual sounds: Grinding, clicking, squealing, or humming noises during attempted operation, suggesting a failing motor,; Manual operation only: The liftgate can only be opened or closed by hand, requiring significant effort.
• Estimated Repair Cost: $100–$900 (parts + typical shop labor)
• OEM Tooling Required: Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools

Diagnostic workflow:

1. Confirm the symptom on your vehicle.
2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool.
3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first).
4. Run verification tests before replacing parts.
5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive.

Symptoms and warning signs

Beyond the primary complaint of the 2020 Explorer power liftgate not opening, pay close attention to these specific indicators:

• No response: Pressing the key fob, interior, or exterior liftgate buttons yields no action from the liftgate motor.
• Partial movement: The liftgate starts to open or close but stops abruptly, often accompanied by a chime or warning.
• Unusual sounds: Grinding, clicking, squealing, or humming noises during attempted operation, suggesting a failing motor, gears, or worn struts.
• Manual operation only: The liftgate can only be opened or closed by hand, requiring significant effort.
• Warning lights/messages: A 'Liftgate Malfunction' or similar message may appear on the dashboard.
• Key fob issues: Other key fob functions (door locks, remote start) work, but the liftgate button does not.

How to verify and confirm the issue

Before diving into complex repairs, perform these checks to narrow down the problem with your 2020 Ford Explorer's power liftgate:

• Key Fob Battery Check: A simple, often overlooked cause. Replace the key fob battery, even if other functions work.
• Manual Operation Test: Can you open and close the liftgate manually? Does it feel unusually heavy or stiff? This can indicate failing power liftgate struts or hinges.
• Listen for Motor Activity: With the liftgate open, press the close button. Listen carefully for any sounds from the motor assembly, usually located near the top center of the liftgate or within the D-pillar.
• Visual Inspection:
  • Wiring Harness: Carefully inspect the wiring harness where it passes from the body into the liftgate (often through a rubber boot near the hinges). Look for pinched, frayed, or broken wires.
  • Struts/Actuators: Check the liftgate struts for signs of fluid leaks, bending, or damage. These are often integrated with the power assist mechanism.
  • Obstructions: Ensure nothing is physically blocking the liftgate's path or caught in the latch mechanism.
• Fuse Box Check: Locate the fuse box (refer to your owner's manual for exact location, typically under the hood or in the passenger footwell) and identify the fuse(s) for the power liftgate or Body Control Module (BCM). Use a fuse tester or visually inspect for a blown fuse. If a fuse is blown, replace it with one of the correct amperage.
• Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Even without a check engine light, a standard OBD-II scanner can often retrieve codes from the Body Control Module (BCM) or Liftgate Control Module (LCM) that indicate specific electrical or mechanical faults within the system. Look for codes related to the liftgate motor, position sensor, or control module communication.

Common causes (most likely first)

Several components can cause your 2020 Ford Explorer's power liftgate to malfunction. Here are the most common culprits, from simplest to most complex:

• Blown Fuse: A short circuit or power surge can blow the dedicated fuse for the power liftgate system, rendering it inoperable.
• Faulty Key Fob Battery: While basic, a weak or dead key fob battery is a common reason for remote functions to fail.
• Damaged Wiring Harness: Constant flexing of the wiring harness between the body and the liftgate can cause wires to fray, break, or short circuit over time.
• Failed Power Liftgate Motor/Actuator: This is the primary component responsible for opening and closing the liftgate. Internal gear wear, electrical failure, or a seized motor can prevent operation.
• Worn or Damaged Power Liftgate Struts: The gas-charged struts assist in opening and holding the liftgate. On power liftgate systems, these often contain integrated sensors or motors that can fail, leading to partial movement or complete failure.
• Faulty Liftgate Control Module (LCM) or Body Control Module (BCM): The control module is the brain of the system. A software glitch, internal component failure, or communication error can prevent the liftgate from responding correctly. This often requires specialized diagnostic tools for verification.
• Malfunctioning Latch Assembly: The latch mechanism itself can fail, either mechanically or electrically, preventing proper locking or unlocking.
• Obstruction Sensors: If the system incorrectly detects an obstruction, it may stop or reverse liftgate movement as a safety measure.

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Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

Addressing a non-functioning power liftgate on your 2020 Explorer involves a systematic approach:

1. Start with the Basics:
   • Replace the key fob battery.
   • Check the relevant fuse(s) in the fuse box and replace if blown. Consult your Ford vehicle hub or owner's manual for fuse locations.
2. Inspect Wiring and Connections:
   • Open the liftgate manually and carefully inspect the wiring harness where it passes through the rubber boot between the body and the liftgate. Look for any visible damage, cuts, or corrosion.
   • Check connectors for secure fitment and corrosion.
3. Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):
   • Connect an OBD-II scanner to your vehicle's diagnostic port. Check for any stored codes in the BCM or LCM. These codes can point directly to a specific sensor, motor, or communication issue.
4. Test Liftgate Motor/Actuator:
   • If no codes are present, or if codes point to the motor, you may need to access the liftgate motor assembly (typically behind the trim panel of the liftgate or D-pillar).
   • With a multimeter, check for power and ground at the motor connector when attempting to operate the liftgate. If power is present but the motor doesn't move, the motor itself is likely faulty.
5. Evaluate Power Liftgate Struts:
   • If the liftgate feels heavy or sags when opened manually, or if it moves partially, the power struts may be failing. Some power struts have integrated motors or sensors that can be individually tested or replaced.
6. Check Latch Mechanism:
   • Inspect the latch for any physical damage or debris. Test the electrical connector to the latch for proper voltage when commanded.
7. Consider Control Module Issues:
   • If all other components test good, and especially if multiple unrelated electrical issues are present, the Liftgate Control Module (LCM) or Body Control Module (BCM) may be at fault. This often requires specialized Ford diagnostic equipment for further testing or reprogramming. You can find more repair guides for module-related issues.

Repair options and cost factors

The cost to repair your 2020 Ford Explorer's power liftgate can vary significantly based on the faulty component and whether you choose DIY or professional repair:

• Fuse Replacement: $5–$20 (DIY part cost), minimal labor if professional.
• Key Fob Battery: $5–$15 (DIY part cost).
• Wiring Harness Repair: $50–$300 (DIY for simple repairs, professional if extensive).
• Power Liftgate Motor/Actuator Replacement: Parts can range from $200–$600. Professional labor adds $150–$400, bringing the total to $350–$1000+.
• Power Liftgate Struts (Pair): Parts can be $150–$500 per pair. Labor for replacement is typically $100–$250, for a total of $250–$750.
• Liftgate Control Module (LCM) or BCM Replacement/Reprogramming: This is often the most expensive repair. Parts alone can be $300–$800+, with professional diagnosis, programming, and labor adding another $200–$500. Total costs can easily exceed $1000.

DIY repair is feasible for simple issues like fuses, key fob batteries, or visible wiring damage. However, replacing motors, struts, or control modules often requires specific tools, knowledge of trim panel removal, and potentially module programming, making professional assistance a wise choice.

When to see a professional

While many initial diagnostic steps can be performed by a DIY enthusiast, it's advisable to consult a qualified technician if:

• You are unable to identify the root cause after performing basic checks.
• Diagnostic trouble codes point to internal module failures (BCM, LCM) that require specialized programming or advanced diagnostic equipment.
• The repair involves complex wiring, trim panel removal that you're uncomfortable with, or safety-critical components.
• You suspect mechanical failure within the motor or latch assembly that requires specific tools for replacement.
• You want to explore a comprehensive range of solutions for your Explorer model hub.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my 2020 Explorer power liftgate open partially and then stop?

This often indicates an obstruction detection, a weak power liftgate strut, or an issue with the liftgate's position sensor. The system stops to prevent damage, or a failing strut may lack the power to complete the full range of motion. Check for physical obstructions first, then consider strut integrity.

Can a low car battery affect the power liftgate on a 2020 Ford Explorer?

A severely low or failing car battery can indeed affect the power liftgate's operation, as the system requires a stable voltage supply to function correctly. If your battery is weak, other electrical components may also behave erratically, and the liftgate could struggle to open or close.

Is there a manual override for the 2020 Explorer power liftgate?

Yes, if the power liftgate system fails, you can typically open and close it manually. You may need to apply more force than usual, especially if the power assist struts are faulty. Always ensure the path is clear and operate it gently to avoid damage.

Sources and further reading

For more information on vehicle maintenance and specific repairs, consider browsing our extensive collection of all repair guides or exploring other vehicles in our database.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for OEM service procedures. Always consult your vehicle's service manual or a qualified technician for safety-critical work.

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