hatchback door latch/handle does not open door. Works ok with wireless remote control. I suspect the door handle/latch switch is broken. Can it be replaced, if so, How?

 

Just purchased a 07 S and having the same problem. Crazy thing is, the hatchback trunk handle worked on the lot, two days after driving it off, the only way I can pop the hatchback door is with the remote. The handle doesn't seem to work. I was scouring these forums hoping it was a user error on my part... if I find any info I'll reply.

 

So, after reading this:
hatch/trunk lock problem - North American Motoring

and putting together a few facts:

1) the handle worked when I purchased it.
2) it worked the day after
3) on the third day, I brought it back to the dealer to have it detailed, it didn't work after that.

I'm wondering if water inside the latch was a potential problem. Sounds like an odd root cause to me. I'm still new to this vehicle, I'll keep playing with the latch and see what I find out.

 

Check that the hatch is unlocked. I have my 2009 set to lock automatically when starting out. If I get out of the car when I stop, and try to open the hatch with the handle, I find it locked. Use the toggle "Door Lock/Unlock" on the dash and ensure the doors/hatch are unlocked by verifying the passenger door lock is "up" on the door sill.

 

Quick Update: I took the car in for service. The actuator for the hatch handle was broken. Parts: roughly $300 (the actuator, plus the painted piece that goes on top of it). Labor: $60.