The button boot lid latch on my E36 convertible is no longer operating.

It can be depressed but fails to connect & operate.

I've tried the manual key turning it right & left, 'open & closed', but apart from hearing the usual clicking it doesn't release the lid.

I've used the electronic key opening & closing button with the same result.

The soft top was on taking the car from the garage.

I stopped, went to the boot when it opened & closed normally whilst the engine was running.

2 minutes later without moving the car, lowering or opening the soft top, I again went to re-open the boot, using the button, then manual or electronic key failed to open it. The engine remained on.  I also tried the process with it off, to no avail.

All doors & windows open & close normally.

The soft top was untouched, although I have since open & closed it to ensure the trip cut out motor was not affecting the boot lid as it might have, if the top had been left partially open & not correctly seated. All worked well except the lid.

Somewhere the mechanism is not functioning.

I have yet to try tapping the back of the lid & 'mechanism' by poking a rod through the ski storage space between the rear seats but hold out little hope.  Could it be a solenoid, or fuse no. 7 under the bonnet?

Please someone provide a solution.  I've had the car since first new.

Tony D