Not entirely correct. You don't have to have hatch open to take the panels off. I just replace the handle in my wifes truck this past weekend. Climb inside and start prying them off starting with the top, side, and then main one. You may have to apply some force to take the big one off. Once you do that, pull out a rubber plug (you'll see 3) on the left and look inside. Inspect the new handle to understand ho to open the existing one. Once you figure it out, you'll have it open in 5 seconds. Then follow instruction posted here and you are all set. BTW, i have purchased a new handle from
ebay user located in Arizona (sorry, don't feel like looking up his userid) for 18.97 including shipping. Just search and you'll see it. If not, PM me and I'll look it up for you.