The tailgate motor does not engage properly when closing, therefore, does not latch shut. Note, this is not an automatic tailgate. This problem has drained the battery twice. Also, when I open and close the tailgate, it makes an SOS call to MB Emergency Roadside Assistance. At times, the call goes through and an operator comes on the line, other times it does not go through. Why? Who knows? This happens even when the car is parked. Not to mention, this very loud beeping noise is continuous inside the car, until I manage to open/close the gate to it's liking.

Twice, I have had to call for Emergency Roadside Assistance. The first time, after completely draining my battery and having it recharged, I took it to my local Authorized Mercedes Benz Service Center/Fannin Motors - Ashland, KY. The MB Service Manager recommended I replace my battery, which I did at a cost of over $300. However, the tailgate was not fixed because he told me they could not recreate the problem. The second time, the car was in my garage. Approximately, one hour after closing the tailgate, the beeping alarm started going off inside the car, it beeped for nearly eight hours before I could call for service the next morning.

The Service Manager suggested I contact MB Emergency Roadside Assistance just in case it needed to be towed. He stated they could not tow it for free. I did so, once again the battery was recharged and I drove the car in for service. This time, I requested to have the battery replaced. However, the Service Manager did not recommend and said it was not necessary. Probably because it was under warranty and they would not make any money off of me. Instead, the Service Manager suggested I replace the motor in the tailgate for approximately $1,500. I have not done that yet.

Remembering back when we first purchased the car, I felt as if there were issues with the tailgate motor that were in direct relationship to other problems we experienced. However, that is for another day/complaint.