bamaheel

Got rear-ended and trying to figure out if a 2001 tailgate is a direct fit for a 1999? I have been told they have different part numbers and it is not the same; however, in looking at pictures they appear identical and from everything I have read the 2000 "facelift" was only cosmetic.

lkchris

Look up the part numbers here:

http://epc.startekinfo.com

ohlord

was far more than simple cosmetics.The bumbers and fenders are different on the front and rear. The grill slopes more for a more agressive look.You need to swap all the front end metal to use convert the look. The rear gate is different and the placment of the 3rd brake light is different.
Do you need a 99 back wagon hatch? what color?

bamaheel

I know the tailgate is different in that the 3rd light is moved up and the interior panel is different but it appears the 01 will bolt up otherwise (dimension wise).
My car is white and am looking for a tailgate that will work and found one within 2 hours off a 2001 that is white.

Also, saw a response to a similar inquiry on another site wherein a guy named Mark Cummins indicated a 03 tailgate would interchange with a 98. Received a response from the person that posted the inquiry but he said the tailgate was sold before he had the opportunity to try. I also PM'ed Mark but have not heard back.

Any suggestions or other info is welcome.

Franasia

they should interchange with no problem. As ohlord indicates, it's the front that has the most radical differences. It appears to me that the tail lamps are the same for both models and the only difference in the tailgate sheet metal would be the third brake LED light addition. Hope that helps.

Cheers

SLOPESTAR

Don't forget that the cargo cover will not latch the same into the lift gate. Post facelift covers connect at the quarter-panels and not the gate

bamaheel

does anyone know if the hinges are the same in the 99 wagon tailgate vs. the 2000 -03? That is my primary concern because visually the tailgates (except for the position of the 3rd taillight) appear identical on the outside.

SLOPESTAR

is there a reason why you don't find one for the pre-facelift car??? Why not get the one designed for the car or sell it and buy a facelift car. I'm just saying...

Franasia

has the right tailgate for you:

http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w210...0-station.html

Cheers