I am an new owner of a 1999 passat wagon. Got rid of the jetta and into a larger car. Low miles and the car doesn't seem to have problems.

One thing that that has reared it's head is the wagon tailgate. I think I may have it in some locked mode or what


Symptoms:

1) tailgate key slot is in the vertical position. I see in the manual if you move it to the horitontal position (all the way right) it's totally locked.

2) tailgate handle seems to be getting power just fine. When I put the key in and move it all the way left it does make the door locks move. BUT when I go to pull the handle it's disengaged from unclicking.

3) it did work on and off the day it died and stopped opening.

4) when I bought the car last month it worked great.

5) My car does not seem to have a rear trunk opening button in the glove box. where else could it be?

Thanks,