2002 Ford Escape Rear Latch Not unlocking now not locking

I have a 2002 Ford Escape and occasionally the rear glass and liftgate would not unlock. After trying it and then driving around for awhile it would unlock and I could open it. This was very intermittent and usually would function properly both with the keyless and from the switch on the drivers door. Today, I had the liftgate open and put the latching mechanism in the closed position. Then I used the keyless and screw driver and opened the latching mechanism into the open position. (Why I did this I'm not sure.) Anyway, now I have no problems with the glass or lift gate closing and opening or locking in place, but the latch handle does not lock. So even with the car alarmed I can now open the rear gate and window. Also, without the alarm sounding. So, basically I traded one problem for another. I was probably better off before. Should I just replace the latching mechanism or is there something with the alarm / locking system that could just be reset. Thanks!