Rear Sam causing Tailgate issue on ML350?
So, with that, any ideas? Did I miss something on the SAM? If so, can anyone point me to the correct wire bundle on my SAM to investigate further? I do not know which of the ports on the SAM control the door functions. The picture here provided in another thread by Maj. Dundee would be a good reference.
If it matters, the VIN is 4JGBB86E97A199702
Thanks for your help. - Jeff




So, with that, any ideas? Did I miss something on the SAM? If so, can anyone point me to the correct wire bundle on my SAM to investigate further? I do not know which of the ports on the SAM control the door functions. The picture here provided in another thread by Maj. Dundee would be a good reference.
If it matters, the VIN is 4JGBB86E97A199702
Thanks for your help. - Jeff
You might have to try a replacement rear Sam.




i went to drive it today and the battery appeared dead/low, so i jumped it and it started fine, but noticed when i tried the tailgate, it would not go up or down. the red button on the liftgate is not lit up anymore either, just like i read in your post. i think i have the exact things happening with mine as you did with yours.
i can hear the latching/locking mechanisms all working, but the liftgate will not go up. it sits and then you hear and SEE it relatch and fully close.
so the latch side works fine from what i gather, but i have no lifting action.
fuse #40 is fine. and i have also tried fob, driver door control and hatch controls- none of them will raise or lower the gate. i can only raise and lower it manually.
i also have tried pushing and holding the tailgate button and the driver door button in various key positions but to no avail (similar to how you can hold window buttons for 5 seconds to reset the auto up/down after a dead battery)
i have watched a few videos but came across your forum post about the rear sam and would love to know more about what you did and how you solved it/ any info about this rear SAM cleaning if possible!
Last edited by hilikusdrums; Aug 5, 2024 at 11:49 PM.


