Boot light malfunction

One of the two boot lights stays off with the tailgate open. Once dismantled, there is an electronic element (resistor, capacitor, diode?) which tests non-conductive, connected in series (a solderless connection) with the bulb (see photo):

https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0BwDM2u96J7wIM2Y1NzBlYWYtNGQ0OC00YTIxLTllMDQtMDZiNDdlOGNmN2Mw&hl=en

After some time it started working regularly again, without apparent reason.

Questions: what is the discrete component, its values, why is it there, can it be removed (shunted). Consequences, if any?

Btw, how do I pull some more wire to make (dis)connection easier - now it's way too short?

Any clues based on direct experience would be most welcome.