For some reason now, if I put the black cover on the trunk door, the hydraulic stick will just drop and doesn't stay up, but if I remove the cover it stays up, no problem. The door would open and stay up just fine before I remove the cover, before replacing the liftgate handle.
It sounds like it's time to install new lift supports. They get weak as the years pass. Outside temperature also comes into play and the cylinders are weaker at colder temperatures. Apparently the 5 pounds of the plastic cover is now making a difference. You'll be amazed at how strong new ones are. 2004 TOYOTA PRIUS 1.5L L4 ELECTRIC/GAS Lift Support | RockAuto
I believe the OP is referring to the plastic trim that is mounted on the inside of the rear hatch. Open the hatch, look straight up at the underside of it, there are 2 large plastic trim pieces that cover the hatch metal.
So there is nothing in the inside that is making the lever come down, and basically is just a bad hydraulic arm that happens to be on its way down? I was looking at some videos and it seems like a cheap and easy to install part. Thanks guys, I thought maybe I was pinching something inside, as it only loose and made the door fall when I snap the cover back in place, and like I said, it wasn't a problem before. But I guess it make sense, as in the video I watch, it said that the handle could break from more force being put it on it, due to a week lever that needs replacing.
