My neighbor's '15 ML 350 that we will attempt to fix. The dealer said they'd do it but quoted 3 hours and advised him to go to a body shop instead. The cargo net got in the way while closing and now it's jammed closed. Just clicks when you push the button. Using the mechanical key doesn't work. I'm guessing the panel comes off inside but I don't know if that'll give us access to the latch mechanism. Are we going about this right? Anything we should know and stay away from or make it easier? Any help or insights appreciated.

You are using the mechanical key in a small hole in the interior plastic trim? Does it feel like it is engaging the latch mechanism?

Yes, and yes.

This is going from bad to worse. No one wants to work on it. One independent said leave the car for a day and they'll give it a try but no promises and $175/hr. You can't remove the inside panel to the lift gate without opening it so access to the locking mechanism is the problem. I don't even know if removing it would help but it's a start. Help!

Can you describe what actually happened? is the net stuck in the latching system causing it to jam? Post pics?

Yes, the net was snagged as the lift gate was closing and it locked in place once closed. When you push any lift gate button all it does is 'click'. No movement of the gate. We tried pushing on the gate while activating lift but nothing.

Sounds like you won't get it out gently, hold the trunk latch button (so that it clicks open) and give it a good yank to help it open. That's most likely what any shop is going to charge you to do. Opening the panel on the tailgate won't give you access to the bottom of the lock mechanism (Where the net is stuck).

Thanks, I was afraid the panel removal wouldn't help.

Push HARD on the gate from the outside. Have someone turn the key or push the release button while you're doing that. Your goal here is to remove the extra tension caused by the interfering cargo net. Remove the tension from the lock mechanism and I bet you'll easily get in.

It opened on its' own! My neighbor was inside the car getting ready to give it a hard push and when he hit the lift gate button on the key fob it opened and he barely pushed the gate with his foot! We're guessing the vibrations from driving or the constant attempts to open it wore through the netting. Thanks for the ideas.