mis3

For the past few months, the interior chrome door handle (lever) of my 2004CLK320 has been "loose". This is the driver side door.

I am not familiar with the latching mechanism. Is it a big job to replace this lever (interior)? I assume the door panel has to be removed to access the part, right?

I checked a few online stores but could not find this parts. Does anyone have the part number?

Rudeney

You will need to remove the door panel:

http://benzbits.com/w209/DoorPanel.pdf

The cable that the door handle actuates may have popped out of its guide.

mis3

The lever is still working but because it is a bit loose, I feel that it may fail anytime.
I looked at the WiS and there is no explanation how the interior lever is connected behind the lever

Rudeney

It's a metal rod that's bend down at a 90-degree angle. It snaps into a plastic clip attached to the handle to old it in place. It pulls on a cable. That cable has to be seated in the door panel to create tension. I suspect it has fallen out of its seat. If you're halfway decent mechanically, once you see how it connects, you'll figure it out.

mis3

The handle still works well now but it feels a bit whobbly. Just a bit, not as tight as the passenger side, I am sure this is just normal wear and tear.
By what you said, I think the plastic clip is the culprit. One day I will have to replace it, can I just buy the clip or do I have to buy the whole assembly?

Rudeney

Those plastic clips for the linkage are pretty standard - they've been used for 40+ years in automotive door handles. Local auto parts stores often carry them. You'll just have to find the right size.

mis3

I Just studied the diagram in oediscountparts.com. Is it possible that this is the jamb switch with part number 1688201910?

I think the challenge will be to remove the door panel.