ML 350 Tailgate

[Rabt]

Apologies if this has been asked before,
I have an ML350 2010 with auto opening tailgate that seems to have stopped working properly. The tailgate unlocks as normal, seems to struggle to lift a few centimetres then stop. It is quite difficult to lift, there feels to be a resistance when lifting. If the car is unlocked and the tailgate is lifted by operating the lever, the tailgate can be lifted without the resistance although it is harder to close than open.
I was wondering if it was a hinge, dampener or given the resistance the motor. Has anyone had this problem before or any ideas what it could be.
Thanks.
Rab

 

[Blobcat]

Corrosion in the hinge, lots of lube required… good advice in many situations

 

[Rabt]

Corrosion in the hinge, lots of lube required… good advice in many situations

Thanks I`ll try that. I was concerned it was the motor, so I`ll try lube first. just gave it a quick spray yesterday, but I`ll remove the covering around the hinge and have another shot.