The close assist on my boot doesn't work (SL500 04). It does the usual thing of working for a while after I pull and replace the fuse under the rear storage compartment, but then failing again. I checked the vacuum to the rear lock and it seemed ok, I even had the lock pump changed (was done under warranty) but that was ok too. Then tonight I heard a hissing from the driver seat and thought maybe I have a leak there. When I looked under the seat, I found a length of rubber pipe (about 18") that was connected to a vertical nipple under the lumbar adjustment control, but un-attached at the other end. I've tried in vain to find where the other end of the pipe should attach but to no avail.

Could anyone give me a clue as to where it should go? And do you think that is the cause of my close assist failing as I believe the two are connected?
Thanks in advance.

 

yes the vacuum line under both of the seats actually get bent and break then you will have problems with your lumbar backsupport and your trunk lid closing assist. the line breaks about 12 inches back from the large connector under the seat, it is under the carpet so youll have to loosen the seat frame and tilt back the seat and pull up some carpet and peel back some insulation tape on the harness to find your broken line or lines. then you can usually use a tight fitting vacuum tubeing to just secure the broken hose together.

 

Thanks very much for the reply Chassis. I think that the pipe which has become disconnected (it's quite a thick rubber one) connects into the back of the seat; a guy called "Television" on here very kindly send me some instructions for re-fitting it. Once that is on, I'll see if I still get the problem and if I do then I'll move to the second phase and check under the carpet for another leak/break as you suggest. Thanks again for the advice - much appreciated.