Door locks

I assume the handle on the exterior is not working. If that is the case, then we are going to have to manually operate the latch from behind the panel. The way to do this is we need to remove the trim panel with the hatch closed.

So, this guide will help with how to remove a panel. Clearly this is a door, but the process is about the same.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/door-panel-removal

I attached the diagram below of how to remove the panel and it will show the screw locations which will help with removing this. If you have to break the rear panel, then that may be what has to happen, but I am pretty sure this panel will allow you to take it off or at least get it loose without opening the hatch.

Please run through this and let us know what you find. Thanks