Need help replacing center console latch
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Joined: Nov 2018
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2015 E350 Bluetec Estate
Need help replacing center console latch
The center console latch that opens the center armrest / storage compartment on my 2015 E350 has failed... I've bought a replacement part (A2126800484) but am having problems removing the old latch... There are 3 torx bolts to undo - 2 of which can be accessed in the storage compartment, but one seems to be near the Command knob.
Is there a way to replace this latch without having to remove the entire center console first? Do you need to remove the Command knob?
Any advice much appreciated!
Is there a way to replace this latch without having to remove the entire center console first? Do you need to remove the Command knob?
Any advice much appreciated!
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2019
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
2016 E350 wagon Sport, 2014 C300 Sport, 2006 987 Boxster
Resurrecting this old thread because I just resolved the same problem and it doesn't take long to fix. You have to remove a few pieces but you *don't* need to remove the side trim on the console to isolate the part that needs replacing. That part - if it is the case that your latches are no longer springing out to catch the armrests - is cheap and widely available. I got this one: 2126800484 Center Console Latch $52.94 from AutoNation.
Here is the key. The OP correctly identified three screws holding that piece on, two of which can be accessed directly in the center console storage bin. The third one is towards the comand knob and it is devilishly hard to get to. After trying with various tools and contemplating removing the entire console to get to it, I took the simple route - I dremeled the defective latch piece through that screw post.
Here is why: even after I removed the two screws within the storage bin, that latch piece was anchored. In other words, I think three screws are overkill. Especially since the trim fits tightly over it. So I just used those two screws to reattach and it feels secure to me.
Hope this helps. If I had to do it again it would take 30 minutes conservatively and the cost is $50. Well worth it! As others have noted, dealer would just call for replacing the whole console. That is a lot in parts and labor.
The videos from MB212 on YouTube are great but you don't have to remove all the stuff he is removing. Just get to the point where you see the latch piece you've ordered exposed, and unscrew it. Leave those side trim pieces in place!
Here is the key. The OP correctly identified three screws holding that piece on, two of which can be accessed directly in the center console storage bin. The third one is towards the comand knob and it is devilishly hard to get to. After trying with various tools and contemplating removing the entire console to get to it, I took the simple route - I dremeled the defective latch piece through that screw post.
Here is why: even after I removed the two screws within the storage bin, that latch piece was anchored. In other words, I think three screws are overkill. Especially since the trim fits tightly over it. So I just used those two screws to reattach and it feels secure to me.
Hope this helps. If I had to do it again it would take 30 minutes conservatively and the cost is $50. Well worth it! As others have noted, dealer would just call for replacing the whole console. That is a lot in parts and labor.
The videos from MB212 on YouTube are great but you don't have to remove all the stuff he is removing. Just get to the point where you see the latch piece you've ordered exposed, and unscrew it. Leave those side trim pieces in place!
