Of course you should always check the fuse, and be alert for corrosion between the fuse and its holder.

The most likely culprit, however, is the wires that pass through the hinges. They fatigue and break every 5 to 10 years, depending on how often you open the hatch.

The wires are special ultra-fine fiber wires to withstand the flexing. Don't try to replace them with wire from Ace Harware.

You can buy a new wiring harness (not expensive if purchased on-line) or you can solder in extensions down in the door and pull the wire up six inches, cut out the bad spot and cut the ends off the wires (with plugs), and resolder the ends of the wires (with plugs) on to the cut end of the wire bundle. I've done this twice so far. Next time, I think I'll splurge for a new harness.

Trace around the hinges with a pencil before you start so that you tighten them back exactly where they were. Use a step ladder and some scrap boards to support your rear door while the struts are off and the hinges are unbolted.

The whole job takes only an hour or two, and it is a clean, easy task. The fine wires are a little difficult to solder, so if you are not handy with a soldering gun, just buy the harness.