Ford, 2000 Taurus Wagon. Door open light is on do too the back hatch not tripping switch, where is switch?

Some times the rear switch makes contact.. sometimes it doesn't so the doors don't auto lock and the "Red" dash light emblym is on showing an open door... so I figure I would just jump the switch and put the thing out of its missery, However; I can't seem to find the switch... you know usually like in the door they are a springloaded little guy in the corner... but I have looked all over around the rear door hatch and don't find an obvious switch... so possibly part of the gate mechanizm inside the tail gate?





I sprayed some white lithiom grease on the rear latch mechanizm and re-attached the door seal with silicone and hoping that take's care of the problem that is preventing what ever from not making contact... but if not I want to find the switch, rip it's little wires out and tie them together so the doors will auto lock when put into drive.





Any ideas?
Ford, 2000 Taurus Wagon. Door open light is on do too the back hatch not tripping switch, where is switch?
The switch is actually in the locking mechanism. Before you start tovtear apart the hatch, try this quick fix. Grab a can of lubricant, WD40, or something that has a penetrant. Spray into the latch and operate hatch. Close and open it several times and reapply the penetrant. This should help keep the light from staying on.
Ford, 2000 Taurus Wagon. Door open light is on do too the back hatch not tripping switch, where is switch?
depends, some have to stay open, others have to be closed.. the switch is cheaper at $15 however...





I usually have more issues with the drivers door (as it's usually the most opened door)





But most switches are attached to the latch itself and if I remember, it's attached to the back of the latch on that model and requires door panel removal for access