E270 211 estate tailgate trim removal

Want to access inside of 2004 estate tailgate to see if water ingress there is affecting intermittant rear light warnings (seems thia is a recurrent problem with water getting in via the rear wiper seal - fixed that with some silicone sealant). Removed the 4 side clips in the velour cover OK. But how remove the 8 small button clips in the plastic lower strip, can't lever them out or remove the panel with screwdriver underneath and as much levering as dare? Searched the forum and it seems the bottom section "pops" off !

Will the e-manual as advertised help ?

Any help/tips...

Steve