TSENIOR

I have 03 e500. Went to open the hood the other day and the red handle snapped off. So i go grab pliers thinking okay i need a new handle but atleast i can get the hood open... Pull the line and nothing. Completely stiff. Neither one of the latches release up front. Anyone had this happen? Trying to figure out if it front release cable, back cable or latches. I dont see both latches failing at once but i guess its possible. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

bbirdwell

Replace the handle in the car. I tried the "pull the cable with the pliers" trick and could not get enough leverage. I installed a new handle (<$20) in five minutes and all was good to go. You can release the latches from under the car but it is a PITA to do so.

TSENIOR

thanks for the reply! I will defenitly try this before ordering the line and popping from underneath. My only concern is ive researched the hell out of it and most that had this happen were still able to pull with pliers. Im using visegrips, pulling in the same direction as handle and giving alot more force that ever with the handle. But no matter what it needs replaced so this will defenitly be where i start.

rapidoxidation

When you do get under the hood again, LUBE!!!!!