When I press the release button on the tailgate it opens about 1 to 2 cm so there is nowhere to grip the bottom to raise it. I end up having to lift the whole tailgate by the same method for opening the glass section. This method puts a huge strain on the glass hatch section so i wondered how far the tailgate should open after just pressing the release button. To me a handle fixed to the bottom centre of the tailgate would be ideal and cause less strain on the glass hatch mountings.

I always raise mine using the handle above the number plate. Yes it's part of the upper section but it doesnt seem to put any strain on it. WINNER - 2009 ‘Just Doing What It’s Designed To Do’ Award

2010 TDV8 HSE Galway Green - Adaptive Cruise - Sunroof - Privacy Glass - 5 Spoke Alloys
2009 TDV6 3.0 HSE Buckingham Blue - GONE

That's were it's designed to be lifted from!

Thanks for that, I was using the handle above the number plate but was concerned in case I was causing damage by over straining the glass hatch mountings. I shall now continue to open the tailgate as usual with gay abandon.

Much appreciated RichardM and Big DJ.