scorchie

How are these all related? Well, I won't explain it explicitly. But I will relate this little tale:

Had my 2003 E55 in the shop (the "informal" shop, not a dealership) cuz I was trying on some other wheels. While there, I asked my friend (MB tech, one that actually knows stuff) to close the trunk behind me and use the hard key to activate the valet lock on the trunk, and remove the key.

So, I get in the trunk and he locks it and removes the key. I press the little green button on the inside of the decklid, and voila, the trunk opens, harp music plays, and angels sing.

I checked the lock after that and it indeed was in the horizontal position.

Anyhow, for y'alls (visited TX a few weeks ago) who have been discussing the valet lock delete as of recently, maybe this will give you something else to think about.

-s-

BklynBenz

cant beat a good freebase!

heres a few good crack links for a quick fix...

http://www.virtualcrack.com/

http://www.crackaficionado.com/

http://www.wackycrackheads.com

DWP

So (he said, with puzzlement) just why did M-B delete the ability to lock the trunk with the metal key during the '04 model year? They aren't saving money if the hardware is still there. The aren't newly complying with some federal mandate to let people escape from trunks under all circumstances if you could do a Houdini from the metal-key-locked trunk of an '03 anyway.

BudC

But did you check to see if the trunk worked as it used to? Did it remain locked if the car was unlocked with the smart key? It's possible that the mechanism was disconnected in 2003 and later on a new lock was installed to keep people from thinking that the old valet mechanism was still there.

scorchie

Hmm, maybe you're a newcomer to this "saga".

Yes, I originally posted long ago that my 2003 E55 has a valet lock, as indicated in my owner's manual, and it works just like every Mercedes before it that I've owned, including my 1987 190E.

Well, functionally that is. On the 190E it is a mechanical lock.

-s-

BudC

Yes, I'm new to the saga. Now I'm really confused.

DavidNJ

Ok, I have yet another twist. On early '05s & late '04s, the lock turned 45 deg left or right. On earlier cars 45 deg left unlocked and 90 deg right was the valet position.

Now on our July '05, it will go 45 deg left to unlock, but won't turn right at all! I wonder if a file will fix the problem.

BudC

My US E320 was built in March of 2004 and won't turn to the right.

saffrontiger

I see pink elephants