Trunk latch not working 2001 alero how to remove actuator

There are a few items that could cause this concern. First, the trunk latch actuator could be getting weak. When this happens, the actuator tries to unlatch the trunk lid but just doesn't have the necessary strength to do so. In this case, the trunk latch would likely need to be replaced as most actuators are integrated into the trunk latch assembly. Second, there could be a wiring issue for the trunk latch actuator. A poor power or ground circuit that has high resistance could still allow the actuator to try to actuate but would have insufficient voltage to do so. Circuit checks with a digital multimeter would be necessary to identify and locate this issue in the wiring. Lastly, it could be a latch linkage issue. Sometimes a pivot point or other crucial linkage for the latch can break which disconnects the actuator from the latch release lever; this results in the sound of the actuator working properly, but because it's not properly connected, the latch is not released. To resolve this issue, most of the time latch replacement is necessary as the individual components of the latch assembly are rarely serviceable (sold separately). You can read more about the symptoms of a failing trunk lock actuator here: https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-trunk-lock-actuator

The '94 Buick Park Avenue has a power trunk release function. The trunk release actuator receives power from the trunk release relay which is supplied by Fuse 2 (15A) in the Relay Center. It's important to note that the trunk release switch in the glove box must be ON for the trunk release button to work. The vehicle must also be placed into the Park or Neutral positions for the release function to be enabled. If the fuse is OK, there could be an issue with one of the switches, wiring or the trunk latch actuator. You can read about failing trunk latch actuator symptoms here: https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-trunk-latch

latch jammed damaged or debris

You have to get to the trunk lock mechanism from the inside through the back seat. From center of the lock mechanism, just to the driver's side is a "switch" the needs to be "slid up". After that, should work like before. For the pic orientation, you are looking from outside in & over.

two screws hold actuator to latch 10mm
unbolt and pull off / lock cylinder has horse shoe clip holding it on

OK, if you have the door panel off, that is 80% of the battle. What happens id that the door lock actuators get stuck halfway between lock and unlock. The hard part is getting the thing unscrewed from the latch assembly. This is normally done with the latch mechanizm removed from the door (pretty easy), but you cannot do that if the door will not open. I have been known to drill some 1/2 inch holes in the sheet metal to access the screws that hold the lock actuator in. On some vehicles, this is not necessary. You will have to look at your situation and see what works best. See the picture below that shows the latch assembly, the lock actuator, and the screws that must be removed. (Note the immage is turned sideways to the way the assembly actually is in the vehicle) (1) = actuator (2) = screws, and (3) is the latch assembly.

Once the lock actuator is removed, you should be able to work your door lock and get the latch to open. sometimes, you may have to poke around and manually move the linkages that the lock actuator usually is in charge of moving for you.

Then you probably have a sticking trunk latch, a weak/partially shorted trunk latch actuator, or high resistance in the trunk latch actuator circuit.

TO REMOVE TRUNK LATCH YOU HAVE TO DISCONNECT TRUNK LATCH CABLE FROM LOCK CYLINDER END.THEN YOU MARK TRUNK LATCH RELATIONSHIP TO THE TRUNK LID AND DISCONNECT THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR AT THE TRUNK LATCH.REMOVE THE LATCH RETAINING BOLTS AND REMOVE THE LATCH.PUT EVERY THING BACK VISA VERSA.

Open trunk
Remove three bolts holding latch
Remove actuating cable.

The liftgate consists of the following components:

• liftgate door lock actuator
• liftgate lock cylinder (if equipped)
• liftgate window glass
• liftgate window latch/ajar switch
• liftgate window glass release handle
• liftgate latch remote control which consists of the following component:
  • liftgate release handle
• liftgate latch, which consist of the following component:
  • liftgate latch door ajar switch

Liftgate Latch Actuator Removal and Installation

1. Remove the liftgate latch remote control. For additional information, refer to Liftgate Latch Remote Control in this section.

SECTION 501-14: Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems 2001 Escape Workshop Manual
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION Liftgate Latch Removal and Installation

1. Remove the liftgate trim panel.

1. Disconnect the liftgate ajar switch electrical connector.

1. Disconnect the liftgate latch actuating rod.
   1. Open the clip.
   1. Disconnect the actuating rod.

1. Remove and discard the liftgate latch bolts.

1. Remove the liftgate latch.

1. NOTE: Make sure the liftgate latch release rod is not preloading the latch. It should be clipped in a relaxed state with no slack.
   NOTE: Position the liftgate latch release rod by pushing outboard to remove the slack.
   

1. Remove the screws and the liftgate latch actuator