Long story short;
I'm looking at a 99 4Runner. It's got a lot of things in its favor EXCEPT it looks like someone tried to break into the hatch by punching the lock in. I couldn't get it open althought the owner swears it opened yesterday. You can hear it unlocking from the drivers unlock switch.
So what are your thoughts on getting the hatch open and ultimately fixing the lock?

 

I don't know exactly how you'd go about it but here's your guide....

http://www.ncttora.com/fsm/1996/SIL/...acdoo/comp.pdf

http://www.ncttora.com/fsm/1996/SIL/...acdoo/disa.pdf

 

Thanks,
I wonder if i can get the inside panel off while the hatch is shut.

 

Yes, you can. Get in the back, remove the pull strap, then remove the plastic hatch cover which is simply clipped in. Then remove the large metal cover inside, then the insides of the hatch will be in front of you.