99 JGC hatch lock no longer works

[VintageSlots]

My 99 JGC hatch lock no longer locks when I attempt to lock all the doors (either with the FOB or inside the car itself)

The manual says I can get to the locking mechanism if I open the little inspection door. When I open it all I see (and feel) is a bunch of insulation.

I tried removing the 3 screws to the hatch panel but the panel appears to be glued in, or I cannot figure out how to get it off so I can inspect the locking mechanism.

Does anyone know how I can get to the locking mechanism in the rear hatch? I hate to take it to my 5 star Jeep dealer because they will charge me an arm and a leg and probably screw something else up.

My wife is freaking out because the latch does not lock.

Thanks

[dksob81]

there should be lil push clips (I forget what there called, I always called them christmas tree clips). u can use a flat head screw driver to get under the panel and pry up on it and they will pop out, be careful not to crack the panel.