W169 tailgate handle

[Martin blackett]

Evening all
The switch that you squeeze to open the tailgate seems to have failed
It’s an 05 plate. Very few around but found one from 09 year
Would anyone know if this part was changed on the later models. Seems it’s all one piece comes with number plate lights as well.
####. Just found info if someone can confirm. The later cars have a slightly different switch but you buy a converter lead as the earlier model switch is not available now.

 

[ZZZZ]

Yes, the original, pre-facelift tailgate handle / button is rubbish and the facelift tailgate handle is different, will fit fine and is much better - no more rubber membrane which detaches from base and lets water in, but a standard button used across many models of the period.

I have replaced mine (before it failed) on my old A200 2006 with a facelift handle - was fortunate to be able to find a new (old stock) part.

You will need an adapter cable - about £8 direct from Mercedes, as the connectors are different.

Here it is - I modified it (as most things), so ignore the red/black wire generic plug - original adapter is just three plugs.

New handle:

Fitted (not OEM button though - seemed like a good idea at the time - removed it a year later, and put the OEM one in, relocating the camera further to the OS):

OEM button:

The reason I got rid of the aftermarket button with integrated camera:

OEM button back on, and a replacement camera fitted:

Worked perfectly fine too:

I suggest to get a set of new fixing dowels, as the old ones are likely to be damaged.
Only a few quid from MB.

 

[Martin blackett]

Great write up. Thanks. What are the dowels ?

 

[ZZZZ]

The little plugs / inserts into the tailgate, to which handle is screwed on.
If you ask at MB parts department, they'll get them for you, as well as the adapter.

 

[David Richardson]

Helpful & informative Dave, Nice one helping someone new to the forum

 

[Martin blackett]

So does the replacement just slot in ? The other old one seems to clip into the framework , ordered the cable and clips from dealer £26.

 

[ZZZZ]

The replacement facelift handle fits exactly as the original one - you have to unscrew the bolts, then just pry it off with a plastic trim remover.

The prices at MB went up quite a bit in three years I see - I paid £8.70 for the cable and about £6 for the plugs / dowels.

 

[Martin blackett]

Thanks for your help.

 

[Chevril]

Does anyone have a part code for the wiring replacement please? many thanks!

 

[Chevril]

Does anyone have a part code for the wiring replacement please? many thanks!

Its ok - I found it - A1695403135 and I've ordered it from MB. Its now £17,50 from MB direct... or about £35 on ebay (EEEK!)

 

[supremanade]

Hi, just to confirm... Do you need swap out the entire plastic trim (that's housing the reg plate lights and the lid release button) if upgrading to the facelifted button?

Or does the old trim suffice and I can swap out only the button? If I need to swap the plastic trim as well, what's the part number?

Recently got myself a beautiful 2005 unit that just needs a bit of love and care. Among other things the rubber membrane tailgate release button has deteriorated and after heavy rain might have taken a sip and stopped working...