ML 430R1

i just bought a 2000 ml430....and i am trying to make all the changes to it that the newer model has...i need the lights, and mirrors, and new bummpers..anyone have some for sale?....if so please let me kno...but my main question is how to take the trunk lid off..i removed the two screws on the exterior of the car and the middle feels like it wants to come off but the ends are still holding on...should i keep pulling, since it may be adhesive or are there more screws somewhere....thanx

saturnstyl

There are 2 10mm nuts on the back side. You have to remove the large plastic panel on the inside of the hatch to get to them.

ML 430R1

oh okay..so this has to be done by opening the trunk....i thought that maybe it could come off from the exterior screws only....no?

saturnstyl

If it were that easy, everybody would be breaking in to ML's all the time.
Speaking of which, there is a 50/50 chance if you check the tailgate on an older ML that it won't be locked because the actuator is broken. You didn't hear this from me though.....

ML 430R1

lol...thanx...i saw that u can buy the crome plated tailgate handle on a site of mercedes, for $75. but i think it is adhesive tape...but the one handle from the factory that are chrome are they the same way..or is the whole thing chrome w/o the stick on chrome handle?.....

saturnstyl

When you buy from benz you get the real deal. Avoid ebay... most of what is there is cheap junk.

bigcatny

the "real deal" merecedes OEM part is chrome painted plastic versus metal stick on's. Your choice.

I don't believe the new style plastic bumper covers will fit cause they changed the inside metal sections but I'm sure someone with a blow torch can do anything. It's not just a straight bolt on.

The side mirrors are a bolt on but not a straight plug in. It will require some electrical detective work but has been done. There's also a new aftermarket retrofit that keeps the original larger mirrors but adds the lights. I think, cheaper, easier and you retain useful sized mirrors.

The bi-xenon's are great. Easy swap for your model. biggest pain is aiming correctly.

ml350

Hey saturnstyl,

do you know if benz change the tailgate design on the new 05 ml?

saturnstyl

'05 is identical to '04 which is identical to '03 which is identical to '02. '02 is nearly identical to '01 which was identical to '00, '99, and '98.
Are you referring to the yet to be released in the U.S. W164 chassis "new" ML?

ml350

Hi,

iam talking about the tailgate on the back,

did it get updated on the new model or not?

and the actuator did it also get updated on the new model?

saturnstyl

The "new" ML will be all new when it debuts. So, yes it is updated. BTW the failure prone tailgate locking actuator was updated several years ago. The new parts have a higher strength plastic so they don't pull themselves apart.

tkelley

haha.... you're pretty funny for a tech...

autogunner

The nuts on the inside are 8mm not 10mm and you need a short 1/4" drive if you have one to get them out easier. The new M is all new and electric. Autogunner.

GregW / Oregon

The metal stick on one works fine. No need to disassemble things to replace handle itself.



For My Mercedes tailgate handle

ML 430R1

yeah greg, u helped me make my decision...it's still tough, but i think ill go w/ the metal stick on..will have pix soon too..lata