Hatchback/liftgate Lock problems of the 2017 Ford Escape

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the liftgate switch failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the liftgate switch was activated to unlatch and open the liftgate; however, the liftgate failed to open as intended. The contact stated the failure was initially intermittent but became a persistent failure. The liftgate had since become inoperable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the contact was informed that a diagnostic test fee would be charged to determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.