Liftgate issues anyone?

[bwilliams]

I've got an interesting problem with by '02 3.0. Every once in awhile, the computer tells me the liftgate is open when I know it is not. The previous owner took the car back to the dealership twice with this problem, and I know the latch was replaced. Also, the rear lights in the liftgate don't function right. When opening the gate, the first foot or so, the lights are on, lifting the gate any higher, however, the lights go off. If I close the gate, once it gets to that sweet spot the lights turn on again. It's a PITA, especially at night. I've taken both ground straps off, cleaned, reinstalled. I'm sure it's not a ground issue. Is there a mercury switch in there somewhere?