An actuation system and method of operation for moving a closure panel in one of a normal drive state and a back drive state are provided. The actuation system includes a mechanical coupling for moving the closure panel. A motor with a shaft is directly and operably connected to the mechanical coupling to directly move the mechanical coupling. A sensor detects movement of the closure panel and couples to a controller connected to the motor. The controller moves the closure panel with the motor based on a detected motor movement command in the normal drive mode. The controller also detects movement of the closure panel using the at least one sensor and selectively brakes the movement of the closure panel based on the movement detected in the back drive state.