Thank you all for past help. I have replaced vacuum pump and all is well except the retractable lid grip does in come out. The black tube is on HVAC and the grip does not flip out - everythings else is perfect - I cannot find a fuse for this action there assume the vacuum hose whilst connected is not functioning whilst all other door etc are great Any opinions Thanks Tony Ainsworth Aussie

What year & model car?? W140 chassis?

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Thanks for response My car is an S280 1995 model never sold in US but has the identical vacuum pump and trunk grip mechanism to the S320 sold in the States. I have just reolaced the vacuum pump which had failed and all is now OK. When I activate the central llocking system there is a short whiiir from the pump. The black tube apparently goes to HVAC which operates the grip but it still does not work Could there be a leak at the grip mechaism end located within the trunk lid? appreciate your help

I omitted 140 chassis That is correct Tony Ainsworth

IIRC the handle and closing assist are triggered by a switch by the trunk lid latch. That switch can get flaky. Have you checked V12 Uber Alles, Repair Help for Mercedes Benz S600 V12 W140 ?

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87 300D