N_Jay

Is there a way to lube a sticking real hatch handle instead of replacing it?


Anyone have a good write-up or video on replacing the handle.


Mine is sticking on almost every use now.

N_Jay

So, in looking around it seems the MKL, GL and R share this piece.


I found a video on the replacement on an ML and the GL looks the same.


I figured this piece was a combination electrical and mechanical release, but Noooooooo . . . . . .


It is nothing but a friggin switch that could have been a simple push button!


So has anyone taken one apart to figure out what binds?
Given the part is $50 used and $85 new, how hard is it to take apart and clean up and relube?

N_Jay

All fixed with a $15 eBay part.


Took about 45 min, but would have been a lot faster if I was not being extra careful about the clips and if I had known you needed to take the inner hatch handle trim piece off first.

dagentooboy

What part? Mine was bad when I bought it and the dealer replaced the whole latch for free (it would have cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $730). Do you have any pictures/suggestions for next time?

N_Jay

There are two parts that seem to have high failure rates.


One is the latch, the other is the handle/switch.


They are independent. Mine problem was with the handle.

EDIT:
Here is a really bad price on a used part (more than new)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/09-MERCEDES-W164-ML550-Lift-Gate-Handle-Flap-Closing-System-Spare-OEM-/191260205919?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2c87ff235f&vxp=mtr
P.S. I love these "Dealer" repair prices. Even at $100 for the handle and $250 for the latch, they are somehow adding almost $400 for less than an hour of work.
Oh, wait, I forget. If they did both pieces they had to take the door apart TWICE, because there is no labor saving when you do the receipt.

dagentooboy

So.... could you still open it with the key or from the drivers door?

N_Jay

yep.
Opened fine, would not close if the handle stuck in the open position.


Just a little PITA


The handle is nothing but an electrical switch.

xlr8tin

The best fix is to replace the latch. Lubing or spraying with WD40 is only temporary and will not do anything long term

N_Jay

Are you talking about the handle or the latch?




P.S. WD-40 is always a temporary fix. It leaves little to no lubrication after it evaporates.

Biwinski

do you have the switch part number? I’m looking but can’t find the part number. You are talking about the outside handle that sticks correct?

N_Jay

I don't think the switch is available separate.
My switch was fine It was the handle that was sticking.
I got one off eBay for not too much, Then took minor part cleaned it and looked it and kept it as a spare.
Now my wife's E has the same problem so I need to find one of those handles.