No reverse lights, rear plate lights or power to tailgate

[CarolineT]

Hi,

I’ve got a 2004 E320 estate..

With no warning I’ve lost all power to my tailgate and my reverse lights & rear number plate lights are not working.

I’ve checked the fuses and all seem to be ok.

Has anyone had this issue before?

I’m reluctant to spend anymore on large repair bills as I’ve only just had my air suspension fixed

Thanks in advance

 

[saff]

I'm no expert but just looking at my S211, (same as yours) it sounds like the faulty lights are all on the tailgate. My thoughts are possibly broken wires in the harness between the car and the tailgate.

 

[CarolineT]

any ideas how I can find this out without it going into a garage

 

[saff]

It would need to be investigated so I can't suggest any other way unless you can get someone to help.

 

[Trickythemerc]

You need either a good auto electrician or somebody with MB star diagnostics. This would eliminate any faulty control units, the rear SAM could be faulty and star is pretty much the only way to diagnose it. I have a star set up but am a bit too far from you to help sorry.

 

[Bellow]

I'm no expert but just looking at my S211, (same as yours) it sounds like the faulty lights are all on the tailgate. My thoughts are possibly broken wires in the harness between the car and the tailgate .

My BIL had the above on his CLS.

any ideas how I can find this out without it going into a garage

He found the broken/chaffed wire visually and repaired it. Look for where the wiring bends to permit boot opening.