folding rear seats

[clar683]

I just purchased a 1990 300TE to drive during my stay in England. The rear seats won't fold down. The latches on both sides are very stiff, and won't release the back of the seat. Any suggestions? I did apply WD40, but it doesn't seem to have any effect.

[Mr. Majestyk]

Well, the thing is that I can't get the back seats to fold down, and also the 3rd seat! I have a 300te 4matic. I have read all the posts and I am trying to put my bike in the car and the rear seat backs do not release. Not that I have a great idea what to even pull or push on to release them. The manual is a bit unclear, it just says to fold them down. I made sure to have both the back doors open. I am guessing that the lock mechanism is stuck and am not sure where to spray some lubricant and not sure but am guessing that I should assist whatever springs are in the lock mechanism by pulling on the rear doors little black round button, since it stands that pushing them would simulate the doors being closed and locking the seat mechanism. Sorry for the run on sentence! Pulling hasn't worked yet for me. I understand greater force might need to be applied to free up a corroded mechanism, but I love this car and am loath to apply force before I really understand how it is supposed to work. First time using a forum. Thanks for any tips, guesses and advice.
Mr. Majestyk!

[sennasixty8]

open both doors, step into the cargo area from the back door, and lay on your back, while using your feet to kick the seats forward. It's the only way to free stuck seats, in most cases.

[Mr. Majestyk]

Sheesh! That was tough, kicking my Mercedes! But it worked! Many thanks.