My 1990 Mercedes 300 E trunk won't close. The trunk has always been difficult to close- in the past I had to slam it down with much force. The latch appears to be fine. The top metal piece isn't bent or distorted, but the plastic around it slightly damaged- it almost looks as if it has been chewed on. However, I don't see how it would prevent the trunk from closing. The bottom spring mechnisim reacts appropriately. A bungee cord will do for now, but please help! Any suggestions?

 

The chewed up look is because the latch is out of alignment.You need to adjust it or have it adjusted by a body shop that does MB.
ohlord
you should be able to tackle the job yourself.

 

Agree. My 95 320 cab has the same problem. Loosen the bolts on the top part of the latch and fiddle around with their allignment to bottom part