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Trim around windows

48K views 24 replies 14 participants last post by  pdonovan  
#1 ·
I have a 2007 ML320 CDI and in general am very happy with it. One thing that has become an issue is the trim at the base of the windows. My trim is painted with a clear coat and the clear coat is or has peeled off. I have seen other MLs and GLs of similar model year with this issue and just wanted to see if others here are experiencing.

I'm in discussion with Mercedes now about the issue and I'm hoping to provide an indication that this issue is not isolated.

Thanks in advance
 
#2 ·
It seems to be a vinyl wrap of some kind that is put on, mine has begun peeling in a bunch of places, I will probably peel all of it off on the weekend when I have some time. wish I had the brushed aluminum trim that the 09's have.
 
#8 ·
07ml500 did same thing..... temp fix was to peel the clear plastic cover off and "attempt" to polish the base plastic with armor all and/or tire dressing... This lasted for a while but started to look faded.

I eventually bit the bullet and had all new lower window weather strips installed at the dealer on my last service. Car looks soo much better now.... the peeling trim made it look junky.

I pulled a few screws/parts to attempt to do this myself, but gave up and left it to the dealership.

GL.
 
#18 ·
Bought a set not too long ago on Ebay, decided not to install it. They might look OK from 10' away but once you get close to it you'd defintely notice they are just add ons. Water could seep in through the cavity behind the trims and who knows what might happen. It might be OK, but I'd prefer not to do it, just personal preference. Now they are just sitting there in my basement, wasted $100, would be willing to sell for $50 all 4.

Then I decided to buy the real OEM chrome trims and I'm a lot happier now.
On the boxes they are called "Garnish Moulding". But if you order them online they are called "belt window strip". The trick is, you have to put down GL550 as it uses the same parts and select the ones with chrome package. If you put W164 then you'd get the regular black ones.
As far as I remember they are around $100 a piece, so definitely more expensive than the ebay add ons, but nothing like the real OEM parts. Now I just need to figure out how to install them.
 
#19 ·
Window trim

Hi, I'm resurrecting this old thread because I have the same issue.

Batco, do you still have the trim available? Where did you originally buy?

On a similar note, anyone have the best source for the oem replacement? Wife is getting tired of the shabby look of the peeling trim.

Thanks in advance!

Pat
 
#21 ·
Quick update on my resolution to the trim issue.

I talked to a guy at Mercedes customer service a few times and exchanged emails as well. He suggested that I take it into a dealer and have them document/evaluate the issue. We got a call back a few weeks later and the parts were in. Mercedes replaced the 2 pieces that were peeling and we paid 10% (deductible) I think. Worked out to be $50 out of pocket total.

They were very accommodating for a car out of warranty.

The more they hear about this, the more likely they are to readily address the issue without debate. Just don't give in. Keep debating that it's total bullshit that the parts are peeling and it's happening to others as well. IMO, for a premium brand, this just shouldn't happen.

Good luck,
Jim
 
#22 ·
Had that happen on both front doors on the old 2008 ML. The dealer said those are replaceable trim parts worth about $70 a piece (labor extra).
 
#24 · (Edited)
I have the dreaded peeled trim look as well. Really bugs me! Dealer mentioned it at the last service visit and quoted me $800 for replacement, LOL!! Those chrome strips actually don't look that bad IMO. Might have to look again at that option.

Quick update since the previous link didn't work for me: http://www.ebay.com/itm/05-06-07-08.../251059670649?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3a74528e79&vxp=mtr

I was just going to paint it myself with PLASTIDIP. Its such a great product and highly recommended. Comes in a ton of colors but the black looks like satin-black paint. Matches most interior black trim to give you an idea. And if you don't like it you can peel it right off. People use it for everything, including wheels so its very durable but easily removed when and if you want. Throwing it out there as another option.
 
#25 ·
trim around windows

Hi, I also have a 2008 ML 350 and the windows are peeling as well. I spoke to my dealer and was told that it out of warranty and it would be expensive to replace.....The windows have been peeling for 3 years....I was planning to trade in for a new GL, however, if that is happening to that model, I may purchase a BMW!

Patti