Back door handle on hatch is hard to open on 02 Sequioa limited

I was wondering has anyone had to replace or fix the handle on the back door of an 02 Sequioa? The one we have you have to press really to get the door to open.

 

anyone??

 

It's a common problem. You need to replace it

 

Thanks and I will start looking for a replace part for it.

 

The best thing I did is a fuel tank lid wire from unfamiliar vehicle (found in a local second hand parts market), applied to the lock and handle is located underneath my seat. Will share a photo later. It was great and forgot those nightmares with trunk lock failures

 

I replaced the handle with a sturdier aftermarket part. The problem with the factory one is that the metal tab where the cable connects is too thin and bends over time making the latch no longer work. I also ran a string from the latch to the interior to give me a manual override.

 

I deleted the factory handle from my son’s 03. It’s great so far- https://aireddownadventures.myshopify.com/products/1st-gen-sequoia-rear-hatch-combo-kit

 

@cran2 Thanks for that link

 

Great. Now my recently replaced back door latch isn't working again. That lasted about 6 months. Ordered the a1auto all metal part thinking it would last longer. I had also replaced the lock actuator that I sourced from an eBay junkyard, as well as new oem cables to put it all back together. Guess I'm digging into what's going on with this today. I've looked at the air down adventures part and it looks like a good option getting rid of a cable and the rear hatch but my bumper is warped and I couldn't fit the homemade latch in there without having it catch on the raised and warped plastic bumper cover. I tried to fab something last time I had everything apart and it was a no go. I do like the option of possibly routing a new cable towards the front seat though and have it open from there. Wish me luck gang I'll report back after I open it up.

 

Well no updates to give. Right when I was about to start the project my wife tells me she needs her truck. I say you can take mine, she says no thanks I'd rather not take the big rig. I got some other fiddle farting around the house done instead.