If I try to open the trunk with either the remote or using the button inside it does not open. I can hear the mechanism moving, but, no result. This is on a 1999 sl500. Any ideas?

 

I recently had the same issue with newly aquired 2000 SL500.Replaced latch release mechanism @ $128.50 for part, trunk release switch@ $31.05 for part, and Trunk lock switch @ $96.80 for part. Add labor and everything works like a charm now. When I asked what caused this in my newly aquired baby was told possibly an attemptedjump start.

 

Something I may consider if it becomes a nussiance.