Need help removing dome lamp ass'y - C230
 

Can someone tell me how to remove the front dome lamp assembly in a 1999 C230K? I'm not talking about just getting to the lamps, but removing the entire assembly. There is a rattling noise coming from somewhere around this area (I suspect the sunroof mechanicanism) and most of the functions of the dome lamp, sunroof, and keyless entry receiver are not working. I don't see any mounting screws inside the assembly and can't see a way to get to any clips that might be holding it in place.

By the way, the local dealer has diagnosed the lack of functions in the dome lamp assembly as a bad module. Does this sound likely? I'm guessing it could be something as simple as a connector has come loose (hence the rattling?).

Thanks!

Barry

I have a 1998 C230 and I don't have my Haynes manual with me.
However I had the same thing happen to me except without the rattle and my keyless entry wasn't effected (though for the life of my car the air temp sensor mounted up there vibrated a low annoying hum).
For a few days or a week my ceiling console wouldn't work. I don't recall exactly but I may have replaced all the bulbs in the console. Suddenly everything started working again and haven't had an issue with it since (few years).

Does your rear view mirror dimmer work? and can you open and close door windows with the remote?

The console lights and sunroof do have in common automated activation through the keyless entry

I've lost the sunroof, keyless entry (except for the Infrared), garage remote, and front dome lamp functions. Oddly, I think the passenger reading lamp still works.

It did go intermittent about 6 months ago. I started playing around with the driver-side power seat (specifically the headrest) and things suddenly started working again. This time, I can't restore it.

By the way, I have checked and rechecked all the pertinent fuses and have confirmed voltages on both sides of some of them so I don't think it is a fuse issue. I just can't seem to get behind that dome lamp assembly to check things out like I'd like.

Thanks,
Barry