M-Class (W166) Produced 2012-2015

W166 (ML350) tailgate stuck open?

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Old 05-26-2017, 09:37 PM
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W166 (ML350) tailgate stuck open?

Hi,

Have an issue with my tailgate - opened the back with my key, it touched my shoulder on the way up and stopped so I pushed it up and now it won't close.

Have tried everything I can think of but no luck. Heading to dealer service tomorrow.

Everything the else OK that I have checked - key fob, locks, windows, etc.
Old 05-26-2017, 10:07 PM
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2014 ML350 2w, 2017 GLS550, 1967 Pontiac GTO 4 sp
If you have to drive with it up, open your windows. The vacuum created behind the car will pull in exhaust fumes. You might not notice it, but the headache you'll get later will suck. I have a '14 ML350 so would like to know how you make out in case it happens to me or others. Good luck.
Old 05-27-2017, 05:45 PM
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Close it manually...force it closed by hand
Old 05-28-2017, 02:14 PM
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So here's the follow-up:

Couldn't close it by hand even with some very forceful pulling and didn't want to break anything else trying.
Took it to a M-B service Dept and they found that both of the tailgate struts had seized! No idea as to why but replaced on warranty (<39k km on the unit).
Had to drive 40 km to the dealership so as suggested make sure you do that with windows open to ensure a front-to-back airflow to keep exhaust fumes out of the cabin.
Very surprising the struts both seized?
Old 05-28-2017, 07:03 PM
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2014 ML350 2w, 2017 GLS550, 1967 Pontiac GTO 4 sp
Originally Posted by TA Canada
So here's the follow-up:

Couldn't close it by hand even with some very forceful pulling and didn't want to break anything else trying.
Took it to a M-B service Dept and they found that both of the tailgate struts had seized! No idea as to why but replaced on warranty (<39k km on the unit).
Had to drive 40 km to the dealership so as suggested make sure you do that with windows open to ensure a front-to-back airflow to keep exhaust fumes out of the cabin.
Very surprising the struts both seized?
The number one culprit for that would be moisture. Keep an eye for wet spots around the lift gate. Go to the car wash. Once through, don't open the lift gate. Wait a few hours for the outside to really dry. Then open and see if you can find any moisture above the struts that could run down the struts.
Old 05-29-2017, 02:52 AM
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Good point PJ. I'll watch for that.

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