Removing tailgate inner trim panel

[Rozmic]

My car is a Mk.IV Golf S 1.4; 5Dr; Petrol (1999;V reg).
I need to remove the inner panel on the tailgate in order to check the rear washer hose (leaking!)
My Haynes manual says "After removing the retaining screws in the grab recesses, carefully lever plastic trim away from door using a flat scredriver". I have tried this but the panel will not budge and I am concernend that applying too much force will damage the panel or snap the clips.
Any tips?

[vwcabriolet1971]

The Haynes manual is correct . After removing the 2 screws within the "handle" recesses , the lower trim is released by levering the trim against the tailgate body . You have to be a bit brutal doing this as there are 10 metal clips holding the trim to slots in the tailgate . A large screwdriver is required. It is prudent to wrap some cloth around the screwdriver shank to prevent paint damage. The lower trim is also clipped to the top trim at the sides.
The top trim is released in a similar manner after removing the 2 spreader pins out - one each side- they look like plastic "pop" rivets and can be prised out . Prise the top trim sides away first and then the top. From memory I think there are about 6 or 8 clips securing the top trim .
I have to warn you that as the trim has been inplace for more than 10 years , it is likely that that some of the clip supports in the trim may get broken in this operation and also re-assembly is problematic as it is difficult to see the clips and slots as the trim is offered upto the tailgate . I had to repair the broken clip supports with araldite . 2 pair of hands is most useful . This was not one of VW's best designs !
If you can get a look at a Bentley service manual ( 1999-2002) .This shows 3D line drawings of both trim pieces and their fixings. This a USA manual but is available thro' Amazon at a price ! . I always try to obtain a Bentley manual for my cars as they are so much more detailed than the Haynes ( they are about 4 times thicker !).
I have changed my MK4 Golf to a MK 6 and am pleased to note that the highlevel brake light cluster is an LED design so hopefully the "lamps" will last must longer . I think VW should issue medals for owners completing this task.
Good luck - let me know how you get on .