Tailgate handle not working...

[hereford]

I've tried to find similar threads on this issue, but no luck.

I have a 2000 S4 Estate and the touch pads by the number plate lights have recently stopped working. The Key fob still releases and you can open it using the key in the lock.

To start with the left hand pad didn't work, but the right did, then a couple of weeks ago the right packed up too.

The lock was bunged up with road salt, but I freed this with WD40.

The internal mechanism all sounds fine when opened with the key fob and there haven't been any issues with closing it or central locking.

I wondered if the handle has a separate fuse that might have blown?

Any other ideas?

[mike ryan]

If it is a soft touch one, ie a small micro switch which operates a solenoid on the lock the switches pack up due to age and use. If it does have them try shorting the wires across on the switch and it should open it up.

[hereford]

It is the soft touch one, you can hear the switch 'clicking' when you press the surface, but nothing happens, hence having to open using the key or the fob button.

Any idea what I have to get to replace/repair it?

[mike ryan]

The switches are the normal thing to go. On mine you have to take off the inner panel on the bootlid and remove the lock assembly. Or if you can get to the switches or wires to them try just bridging it to see if the release solenoid energises. If it does then it will be the switch. I would say it is a dealer only part but not to expensive i would imagine. If it still does not work by shorting the wires together then check for a 12 volt supply. If you dont have that check for broken wires in the boots between the tailgate and the body of the car. Let me know how you get on.

[hereford]

Thanks, I'll have a look at the weekend...