Mercedes-Benz W211 S211 tailgate electric lock and wiper not working
Why do the S211's rear wiper and tailgate electric lock not work, and the instrument cluster says Visit workshop?
The cause may be a broken tailgate control unit in the middle inside the tailgate. As the fault progresses, the blind also stops working and the battery can go flat. First check that the wiper can move freely, because a seized wiper can damage the control unit.
Why does the S211 tailgate not open electrically or not pull shut?
Often the fault is in the closing motor or microswitch inside the lock rather than in the lock mechanics. A broken electrical wire at the base of the hinge or an oxidised control module connector can also cause faults, for example licence plate light and brake light warnings.
Why does the S211 tailgate blind not go down and the tailgate crunches when closing?
The sensing switch at the end of the blind's rail can seize mechanically, and the rail groove gets dirty easily. If the tailgate slams shut, the gas struts may be weak. Support the tailgate when replacing the struts.