My issue is (passat B8) that it is out and I cannot get it to unlock it in order hide it again.. Since it is out, I also cannot get the bumper out of the way in order to disassemble it. Any ideas on how to manually unlock it?

@carscloseup

8 ай бұрын

As I recall, it is possible to open and inspect it with the bumper on, at least on a w212. I removed the bumper to make it easier to access. You need to open the hook mechanism, as shown in the video, to release it, it is either way if it’s stuck open or closed.

Hi, I have encountered this problem on my 2010 W212. Suddenly one day the tow bar did not fold out. I have had it in a Mercedes workshop that made an overall check but found no electrical errors etc. so probably it is the type of mechanical error you also have that I have encountered. I now plan to disassemble the towbar myself to see if I can solve it. What does the procedure look like, I guess you need to remove the one-way screw that sits in the plastic casing on one side. Do you have any more tips on how to proceed?

@carscloseup

2 ай бұрын

Hi. Note that this tow bar in the video is a manual retractable, not electric operated. Because of that there's a cable from were you retract it, down to the tow bar and that was this mechanism that was stuck/defect. That said it's probably the same principle on an electric operated, but with some sort of servo motor, instead of the cable. No matter what type, it'll be necessary to remove the rear bumper. You might have to be creative to fix it, because there's no parts available out there.... The previous owner of this car, also had the tow bar checked by Mercedes, but there were nothing they could do, other than offer to install a new tow bar!! It took me a couple of hours and has worked flawlessly since I made this video!

@danielfalk5382

2 ай бұрын

@@carscloseup Thanks for the feedback! I actually have the mechanical version of the tow bar that your video shows. I guess the workshop tried to read the possible error code to understand where the problem is even if it is not fully controlled by electronics (there is some kind of electronic safety/warning system). Ok, then I aim to dismantle the rear bumper. As I said, I think there is a one-way screw that needs to be loosened to access the rest, is it something that you remember from your disassembly? I am very grateful for input because there is hardly any information about this problem online.

@carscloseup

2 ай бұрын

@@danielfalk5382 As you can see in the video there are 6 screws (laying on the floor) that has to be removed, behind a black cover (laying on the floor near the hammer), to acces the mechanism. Else it is relatively straight forward. It is been awhile since I've done the job, so don't remember anything particular. But take your time and move slowly, then I'm pretty sure you'll succeed...

Is it supposed to retract and extend via an electric motor or does it just drop down and you have to pull it manually into position?

@carscloseup

Жыл бұрын

The one shown is supposed to just drop down when released and you have to manually pull it in position. There’s also a fully power operated version available.

I have just bought one myself and I am sure it is missing a part.

Hello Sir 👌. I have the exact same problem on a 2014 ml. Was the plastic part broken? Did you replace it or was it possible to repair?

@carscloseup

10 ай бұрын

Hello, yes it was the plastic part. I was able to repair it or reinforce it with a screw. It is not possible to find spare parts, you have to buy a new complete tow bar. My repair has worked flawlessly for over a year now.

@OveReggen-dm9xm

10 ай бұрын

Hello again:-). Fantastic!! I have also been searching the internett for weeks before I found your post! Thank you so much! I heard that this Oris towbar was not possible to open, but I will sertanly try. Thanks again for your help! Legend🙂 @@carscloseup

@carscloseup

10 ай бұрын

@@OveReggen-dm9xm It’s definitely worth a try, the time spend are money saved. Just remember to use the tow bar regularly. Mine has not been used for years. Actually previous owner of my car, was at a Mercedes shop to have it fixed years back, but they gave up on it!! I still have the invoice of the ordeal😂😂

@OveReggen-dm9xm

10 ай бұрын

OK:-). I will write here how it goes😅😁@@carscloseup

@OveReggen-dm9xm

10 ай бұрын

Hello again. The operation went really well. Took the towbar off and dissembeled it. Did not take the bumper off. It was water inside the housing. Cleaned it an put new grease. Works like new. Should have sent pictures, but did not find out how!! Thanks again for proving that the Oris retractable towbar can be opened and serviced🙂