Also, the switch next to the locking arm does not move back and forth. If I manually set it to lock, it will unlock. But it will not move to the other position.

The door makes a noise like it is locking, but nothing moves.

 

Hi,
Is the lock actuator broken?

Yes, I think so.

 

Is my only option to buy a brand new lock actuator? Also is it easy to replace? Thanks.

 

How is the ML320 tailgate making a locking noise, if the lock actuator is broken?

 

How is the ML320 tailgate making a locking noise, if the lock actuator is broken?

There is a plastic plunger in the door lock that attaches to the lock slide. It is this plunger that is broken. The plastic plunger is insufficient for the repetitive loads placed on it. You can manually lock your door and it will push it to unlock but it pulls to lock and if the neck of the plunger is broken, it can't pull it closed.

The job is about a 20 to 30 minute do it yourselfer. When you get the old one out, you'll see what I mean.

 

Thanks!

Do I have to replace the whole lock or can I replace/superglue the broken plastic part?

Where exactly is the plunger.

 

yes im interested in this too...i have the same problem. how much is whatever has to be bought?

 

Where is the lock plunger? Is it easy / inexpensive to fix? Do I have to remove the entire tailgate cover or can I just remove the lock? Thanks.

 

Thanks for posting your problem

Where is the lock plunger? Is it easy / inexpensive to fix? Do I have to remove the entire tailgate cover or can I just remove the lock? Thanks.

because of this I deiscovered mine has the same problem. It will open at any time and does not lock at all. The alarm goes off when I open it but that is not enough security to prevent someone from going in and taking things. I wonder if this has caused any thefts for ML owners?

I'm bringing in to dealer on 3/8 for new tires and will see what is up. I'll let you know parts and labor if you don't do it yourself. Assuming we have the same problem!

Funny thing is I recently noticed a strange sound coming form the tailgate. I'm very anal about my ML and thus can tell if something is wrong or different. I wonder if I'm hearing the plunger rattling around back there....

 

The funny sound you are hearing is the actuator working. Unfortunately, as I mentioned, if the plunger is broken so it cannot lock the door.
Laxman and Mass Air Flow Guy, the lock is an assembly that comes with the handle. It's about $120.00 for the part and you can put it in with a few basic tools in about 20 to 30 minutes. You will see 2 screws on the outside that must be removed as well as a couple of nuts on the inside, if I remember correctly. Just remove your back panel and you will see. If I were you guys, I'd pick up some extra clips for the door panel because you will break them taking it off.

 

where did you get the part? Its hard b/c I really don't want to spend $120 for a little plunger

 

where did you get the part? Its hard b/c I really don't want to spend $120 for a little plunger

You're not buying the little plunger. You're buying the entire lock and handle assembly. Here is a link to Duval Motors but I'm not sure this is the correct part. E-mail them and ask but here, they say it is $47.00.

edit:Copy and paste this link. It seems BW is blocking it from going through.
trademotion

 

Dammit! Google Duval Motor Cars and go through the search feature. BW will not even let me post a copy and paste link to this site. I thought forums were about helping people!?

 

Dealer quote

because of this I deiscovered mine has the same problem. It will open at any time and does not lock at all. The alarm goes off when I open it but that is not enough security to prevent someone from going in and taking things. I wonder if this has caused any thefts for ML owners?

I'm bringing in to dealer on 3/8 for new tires and will see what is up. I'll let you know parts and labor if you don't do it yourself. Assuming we have the same problem!

Funny thing is I recently noticed a strange sound coming form the tailgate. I'm very anal about my ML and thus can tell if something is wrong or different. I wonder if I'm hearing the plunger rattling around back there....

is $450 labor & parts for a new actuator. This screams for a DIY job.

 

oh yea its def. a diy for me...thanks for the link cmitch. My problem is i dont have a lot of money to do the necessary repairs to my ML, but I cant get enough for a 99 w/ 230k miles on it to get something decent thats anything like this...I will definately be fixing that lock though

 

Any hints on how to get the tailgate inner panel off?
Thx

 

Any hints on how to get the tailgate inner panel off?
Thx

Do a search. I have seen a nice pdf with pics written somewhere in this forum.