Hi folks....a bit of background first. We just picked up our 2006 e500 4matic wagon from the dealer where it had the entire air suspension system replaced with OEM parts all around. Compressor and valve block were replaced as part of the job. The rear subframe had to be dropped to install the rear air bags.

Here's the weird issue we're having. When we returned home and opened the tailgate, it would not stay open. We do not have the power tailgate option. As far as I know, the lift is controlled by two gas struts. We've never had an issue and it was working perfectly before we took it in for the suspension work. I will be contacting the dealer tomorrow, but I was just reaching out here to see if anyone can think of a reason why this issue would occur during the work they did.....I find it very hard to believe it's just a coincidence.

Any insight would be appreciated. Hoping it's something simple. Thanks.

Probably just a coincidence. Two gas struts, one of them fails and the gate won't stay up anymore.

But I'm curious, why did they drop the subframe? I replaced both rear bags on my S211 few months ago, took me about 2,5 hrs (includes chit-chat with a friend who drove by and couple unnecessary things I did) and I didn't need to take off any additional parts.

I'm assuming you disconnected the hose that goes to the air chamber in the center of the subframe? We replaced the bag and the air chamber. No way to do that without dropping the subframe.


Also, were your new airbags OEM (Bilstein)? I thought they came with the air chamber attached....mine did.

you are correct. With proper oe replacement parts, they do not fit without dropping the subprime.

That explains it. You have Airmatic, while I have the rear self-leveling suspension, no bags at the front. Much simpler design.

Update....picked up a pair of Stabilus tailgate struts from FCP Euro ($128 for the pair). Dealer has agreed to install them at no charge (no doubt because we spent a small fortune on the Airmatic suspension work!).