Upper tailgate button not working!!

[Isambard]

Hi all, I've just trawled the 5 or 6 threads on a 'tailgate' topic, but there is no answer, nor is there really anything of a similar problem!! (read 'dammit!')

I can open the upper tailgate with the remote, but the button on the tailgate itself is not working. I have taken it off (see pic) to try and see if the contacts in the switch mechanism are the fault and see if it can be repaired, but it is a sealed unit. Unless I completely take this apart and have a nose, which is gonna be a real PITA, it looks like I'm gonna have to buy another one.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=FB32&mospid=47741&btnr=41_1291& hg=41&fg=60

#29 is the button I'm talking about, but it shows that its separate, BUT IT ISN'T. It's one complete unit.

Does anyone have any experience or suggestions they wish to share? Anything/everything welcomed!