2003 sl500 inside door handle broke
 

The drive inside door handle just flaps and has no tension on it. How do I fix it? Any help appreciated.

I suggest buying a copy of the service DVD from MBUSA: http://www.startekinfo.com/StarTek/outside/9124/?requestedDocId=9124. Cost is only about $60. It will have instructions for removing the door panel to access the door latch linkage.

Door handle repair
 

Remove door panel and check cable and linkage to lock mechanism

Door Handle Repair
 

Let me know if you need info. on removing door panel

Door Panel / Arm Rest
 

I had the same issue on my '94 SL500. Arm rests were a bit loose and doors were just flopping. On my car you need to take the door panels off to disasemble the arm rests. There are a few posts that describe the process, but the MB DVD was the best (and for other work as well, $100).

What I found was the butthead that had the car before me had taken the door panels off, broken a few panel clips and broken the plastic door hinge.:mad: There are part numbers on the hinges, so I am going to try and order replacements. I would have repaired them with fiberglass or something, but I am missing pieces.:mad::mad:

More importantly, to your doors not staying open, there are little "S" springs, really a thick bent wire, that connects through the hinges and keeps the doors open. Again, mine were either no longer connected or missing all together.

My advice is to take the door panels off (really not difficult with instructions), disassemble the panels and find the problem. It could be the springs or broken plastic parts. Fix it properly, don't try and get too clever.