2006 Z. I need to replace the hatch switch between the tag lights. How do I access the inside of this area to remove the switch and install a new one properly?

 

Looks like you just need to remove the plastic cover to access it.

 

How do you remove that plastic cover? I don't see any screws or clips. DO you have to take off the rear bumper?

 

Gotta take off the bumper. The whole essembly should be attached by a few phillipscrews.

 

Is the hatch switch bad or the actuator itself? Usually the switches never fail. To access the trunk actuator, you simply need to remove the rear trunk wall panel. This is easy.

Before starting, you should pull out your trunk carpet and spare tire cover. Pull up the hatch weather stripping over this panel, use an interior panel removal tool or similar implement to gently pry the piece away from the rear wall of the trunk. Pry straight away from the wall, meaning the panel should pop out towards the rear tower brace. Do not pry or pull up. I can't remember how many pop tabs there are maybe 4-6 total. The trunk light on this panel can be popped out or unplugged. I usually pop it out and let it hang as it's easier/faster.

With this panel removed, you should have straight access to the hatch actuator assembly. As for the push button switch above the license plate, I do believe you would need to remove the entire bumper to gain access for replacement. That's not a fun task, but there are youtube videos covering the full trunk panel removal process and the rear bumper.

Good Luck!
-Icer

 

The actuator is good. When Iclick my remote to unlock the doors, the hatch pops open. If I lock my doors with the remote, the hatch pops open. If I lock the car with the door switch while stationary, the hatch pops open. Others threads suggest the switch is bad. I'm down to trying anything.

 

Ahh, that's really odd behavior. Sounds like you might have a shorted wire somewhere. Locking/Unlocking the car should never pop the rear hatch. It's on a separate command circuit.

If you have an aftermarket alarm system, that would be my prime suspect.
If there's evidence or wiring f&%$ery to the interior (stereo/lighting upgrades), that would be the next place I look.
If someone ran self-tapping screws to hold paneling on the the car, that would be another area to check.

Good Luck!
-Icer