Kompressive

On my way out to lunch today, I pulled my drivers door shut, and the inside handle popped off of the door at the top. I searched the forum and found a thread about this last September. The piece is called a grip rail, and apparently, it's not that uncommon to have it break off on the drivers or passengers side.

Back then Drex said the part was available at oempartsdirect.com, but I put the part number in (20381016517213) and no luck. I can't find this part on the web anywhere as a matter of fact. I was going to try and save the labor by replacing it myself. Hopefully, the door panel isn't too ridiculous to take off (I'm assuming I'll have to remove it).

I just get squirrely when removing anything that contains an airbag. I envision removing the panel one second, and having my legs sticking out of the sunroof the next.

Anyway, if anyone has done this fix, and has any tips on how to do it, I'd really appreciate it. I'll just get the part from the dealer...I've been spending a lot of time at that parts counter lately...i hope that trend ends soon.

Thanks!

Saprissa

there's a thread on here somewhere that details the door panel removal.
Don't worry if you follow the steps, you won't end up with broken ribs and busted ear-drums !
Part should be cheap, even at the dealer. If you build a great relationship with the Parts Counter, ask to be placed on their wholesale list... that's like getting a 10%-20% discount every time.

Carlos

Saprissa@aol.com

Glyn M Ruck

[QUOTE=Kompressive;3041021]
I just get squirrely when removing anything that contains an airbag. I envision removing the panel one second, and having my legs sticking out of the sunroof the next.QUOTE]

Oh! that's funny - you just made my day

danev6972

Happened to mine when my boss shut the door. I gorilla glued that sucka back!
Call/email these guys: http://catalog.mercedesshop.com/
Always get good prices from them.
Good luck.

shivi1345

same thing happened with me too

+1 that s**t works

Moviela

In addition to the part number, you also need a color code for the grip rail. Just saying grey or tan will not work. The dealer parts computer will get the right rail if you give your VIN.

Prior to touching the door panel, you should disarm the airbag to prevent a canvas imprint on your puss.

It is much easier to remove the door panel if you also buy a wedge tool from the dealer when you buy the grip.

JLD2k3

Check the sticky on moleskin installation. Door panel removal is part of that process.

Kompressive

Thanks for the info everyone. I was just browsing last night and found this site. In addition to the door handle replacement, it's got some other good DIY info, complete with photos.

I'm probably the last one to find this place, but I thought I would share it, in case someone finds it helpful.

http://www.installuniversity.com/mb/...rabhandle.html