Newbie with a few questions
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
2009 R350
Newbie with a few questions
So I just picked up my first MB, a 1 owner 2009 R350 with 46k miles. It only has 1 thing that doesn't work properly, and that is the rear lift-gate won't close automatically. I can close it by hand, and it will pulled itself closed and latch. Anyway, I found some dealer paperwork in the car, and the MB tech said it was a shorted pinch sensor, but the PO declined to fix it. So a couple of things, is this the same as the lift-gate position sensor; how hard is it to replace and finally, where can I get a service manual that will give me tech level info? Thank in advance, and I promise to share any tips or tricks I pick up along the way for other forum members.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 938
Likes: 53
From: Montreal, Canada
2005 C240 2011 R350
I had a 2008 with lift gate problems. I also have the Star maintenance repair system and there is not much there. What happens when you press the close button? Any noise from the hydraulic pump at all? The pinch sensor is the rubber band around the edge of the hatch to prevent closing on hands and arms. This is not uncommon. You can try to open up panels and troubleshoot but even if you find it, the sensor may cost a bundle.
Be happy you have a great low mileage car. If you really want to try to tackle this, let me know and I can print out what I have on the star system for my ex 2008...
If you are going to do lots of work yourself it is worth getting it.
http://www.emanualonline.com/Cars/Me...ce-Manual.html
note that it installs VMworks virtual machine...basically a hardware PC emulator that runs windows xp. Perfectly legit but if you have no clue what that is. well.. have fun!
Be happy you have a great low mileage car. If you really want to try to tackle this, let me know and I can print out what I have on the star system for my ex 2008...
If you are going to do lots of work yourself it is worth getting it.
http://www.emanualonline.com/Cars/Me...ce-Manual.html
note that it installs VMworks virtual machine...basically a hardware PC emulator that runs windows xp. Perfectly legit but if you have no clue what that is. well.. have fun!
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
2009 R350
Thanks for the info and the link. I will try to do most tasks myself, though there seems to be a lot fewer of the DIY folks than say with Jags and BMWs. The MB tech at the dealership the PO took the car into called out the pinch sensor as being shorted, so I'm assuming he got it correct. The pump does engage for 2 quick bursts, but the gate doesn't move at all. The gasket does have cracking around the upper passenger side, so maybe I can do a little poking around. If it is too big a pain, like you said, I'll enjoy a low mileage car. Thanks again.
