iPad 1 power button unresponsive

I wanted to see if anyone else has had this problem and how they advise me to deal with it.

I have an iPad 1 3G 64 GB. I purchased it in June 2010. Have used it moderately. Recently (one week ago) the power button has started to go south. I have to press it very hard and there is no click any more. It seems to be getting worse day by day (I am now traveling and use it a lot).

I have apple care so I am not that worried about Apple taking care of this. I just wanted to know from others if they expect this to be an exchange for refurbished situation or a repair. I have an Apple store near. Should I make a Genius appointment? I have had lots of trouble with iMacs in the past year and got used to simply walking into the store without appointment.

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

Power button. Home button is fine. Left side of power button still kind of clicks. Right side is very hard to push and gives no feedback.