ph2426

I have changed both rear struts that hold the tailgate up as it stopped working but for some reason the release on the door only works sometimes and is very finicky. The tailgate release on the key will unlock the tailgate but will not lift it either. If I try the rear hatch release on the tailgate five or six times it may work but not always.

Does anyone have an idea what this could be? Once the switch engages it does go up no problem but it only works very very rarely. It closes with no issue. Thank you in advance!

Jpkcpa

I have a very similar issue in a 2013 GL350. Changed both struts. Lock releases when button pressed but will not raise. When open, if I press the button, it comes down about 1/3 of the way and stops. Press it again, and it goes another 1/3 of the way. And again, it will go the final 1/3. I know there is a control module in the rear quarter (Hard to get at) and am thinking that may be bad??

arsupisemnet

does one strut had wires going into car?

Jpkcpa

Yes, only one side goes to the controller. The other isn’t powered (from what I understand).

ph2426

Yes, the passenger side is wired the drivers is just a strut. It works ok after four or five tries but it’s almost like the switch doesn’t engage properly. At the same time the key only opens a small amount so I’m not sure it’s the switch in the handle.

Jpkcpa

If the lock mechanism is not releasing, it could be that is the part failing. When the FOB or door switch is initiated, the first thing you hear is the lock releasing the gate, then the motors
open the gate. On mine, the lock releases, but the motors don’t engage. That’s
leading me to believe my switch is ok, the struts are new and should be ok, the lock mechanism is ok, and perhaps my problem is with the controller.

ph2426

My lock mechanism does unlock with both the handle and the key fob but it does not open the trunk. The tailgate closes ok with the button on the tail gate. It is just the opening that is the issue and does work after four or five tries with the handle.

Powerofchoice

ANY IDEAS OR ABLE TO FIX THE SITUATION? MINE IS DOING THE EXACT SAME, AND WAS JUST FINE BEFORE CHANGING THE RIGHT SIDE OJUT.

L&N Caravan

Issue is with the rear SAM unit - a “low voltage” condition most likely. Using Xentry or equivalent interface just “reset” low voltage set and it will most likely work just fine. Can happen if the main battery goes low or heavy opposing load on lift gate or if a gnat farts. Who knows! This should correct the problem as I chased the same on my 2014 GL550.

BenzNinja

iTrader: (4)

you likely just need adaptation

Powerofchoice

@L&N Caravan… LOL! I hear that! Thank younsomkindlynfornthe response! Will tryto
put charger on main to make sure
all charged, and so just clear, not need
to replace rear Sam, just reset? Need
ti be Xentry? Or lowly like the ICarsoft scanner?
thanks again!
as@BenzNinja adaptation?

L&N Caravan

Just reset or adaptation - no need to buy new unit most likely. Xentry works for sure, icar and others most likely to work as well. Give it a go.

BenzNinja

iTrader: (4)

yes