JamesFeathers

The latch that holds the center arm rest closed on one side of the center console is not functioning on my 2013 ML350BT. I've managed to remove the rear cover, #13 on the attached diagram which revealed 2 screws holding down the rear of the arm rest compartment, #8, that I'm trying to remove. It would seem like I need to remove #4, top cover, but I don't have a shop manual and I don't want to damage another part if I can avoid it. It does pop up in the front, but the latch mechanism seems to be in the way.
I've searched some others post for earlier models, and I'm hoping someone will give me a reliable hint on how to proceed.

Plutoe

http://workshop-manuals.com/mercedesbenz/

JamesFeathers

Thanks for the link. The closest I could find is a 2010, my 2013 has a different stowage box and arm rest. I did get it to close by removing the spring that forces it to the upright position, so at least now it is not so annoying.
But my search for a more perfect solution now continues. Thanks again.

Plutoe

Post your VIN

JamesFeathers

2013 ML350 Bluetec
VIN 4JGDA2EB7DA231557

Plutoe

See attached

JamesFeathers

Many thanks for the directions. Got the stowage box out, but not without a little damage. There was a hidden screw behind the piece identified as #9 which has the USB and Ipod connectors attached to it. I did remove the 2 screws at the bottom of #9, but I should have slid it up about 1/2", and it would have exposed the last screw.
I took some pics of the broken latch, see attached. There should have been 2 small springs, 1 for each latch. The missing spring went into the abyss and was never found, so I went into my junk draws and found a spring and bent it into a shape that would hold the latch in the proper position. Took about twenty minutes to get the right shape that would stay in place, see second pic.
Now I know how to get to the Scrolling Knob if I ever need to replace that. Amazing what you can do with the help of some good people on the web.
Blessings to you.

toby4

I removed the bottom and hidden screws, how do you remove the rear cover #13? Photos if possible, thanks

JamesFeathers

There are 4 horizontal screws that hold the rear cover on. You have to remove the ash tray by letting it flip open and lifting the little tab in the middle to allow the ash tray open further to be totally removed to expose 2 of the screws. Also there is a little compartment on the bottom with a rubber matte that can be removed. That's where the other 2 screws are hidden. Mine were allen head screws and I needed an extension on my 1/4" drive ratchet to reach in. A good flash light is a must.

toby4

Thanks for the quick reply and detailed explanation, I got the 2 bottom (under the rubber matte) screws out but I'm having a hard time trying to free up the ash tray to fully open. Any other tips on how to do it?
Thanks!

JamesFeathers

Get a mirror to see what is holding the ash tray from opening.
Keep trying, the worst that can happen is you beak an ash tray that hopefully no one is using.

CGohring

Thank you.

joecparrish

@JamesFeathers, do you have any more details to offer on the removal of the storage box (item #8) itself? So far it seems like the instructions posted by Plutoe are for the removal of the entire center console assembly. Does the removal of the storage box become obvious once the center console assembly is removed?

Thanks for your help.

--Joe

JSolanoC

Ir is possible to remove only the storage box?

JSolanoC

Can’t remove rear cover #13 please help

Spavelitz

Like others I’m replacing the center console due to a broken latch. Got all the way to pulling out the console but can’t figure out how to disconnect the iPhone cable running to the front of the console. Just pull hard?

Spavelitz

There is a small tab in the center. I was able to get it past the stop using a screwdriver tip. Tried a number of other things like plastic body tools. I think the thinner the better. Push the tray in about an inch the insert the blade in at top center and pull the tray forward till it contacts the blade then it took a quick pullon both. I may have been lucky.

vshahid

Thanks everyone participating in followup responses. I too am trying to remove the center console storage #8 item. Clearly some design or enginnering defect exists for the latch to break on so many of people's cars. But MB is too unconcerned to do a recall on it. Mine broke on most gentle usage. I was planning to open. remove, and hopefully 3D print any necessary parts to avoind paying $700 for a badly made part again.

KZ54

How did you remove the rear center console (#13) in the drawings.

JSolanoC

There are several scrues back, you have to remove the ash tray, then remove the screws, if I remember there are 4, in the back. I think there is a way to remove only the box, but I removed all the console. Then I remove the box. I have lucky to found the spring, I just heat a nail and replace the broken part. I hope this can help you.
Regards


I just place a nail in there

KZ54

Thanks for your reply, but how do you remove the rear ashtray in a 2015 ML350?

JSolanoC

Ok, I remember that, There are like a guides that hold the ash tray, I just push each side with screw driver and then the ash tray fully open

JSolanoC

I think it just one guide,

juancarlos

Hello, My sliding rolling blind where you cover the cupholders broke, and i don't know how to remove the parts that got stuck.
Are you able to help me figure out how to open the center console to remove and replace that sliding door? I have the ML400 year 2015.

we47b1me

take the center console out, and then take cupholder out. Blind will slide out, or you'll be able to see what it's stuck on. 4 bolts, 2 under the ac panel, and 2 in the bottom of storage bin get it out. Disconnect electrical connections obviously, too.