How do I replace the door retaining strap on '97 E 420
 

My driver's side door retaining strap is making an awful popping noise at each stop when I open the door. Can I replace this strap myself? How do I get to the part inside the door. I have removed the door panel before so that is not a problem for me. Thanks

Use the SEARCH function at the top of the page. Search for door check strap. It's not too hard, I did mine.


There is an article in the DIY section too. (top of the page) You know there is a screw behind the SRS airbag trim piece if you have had the door panel off, and the seat adjuster switch stays on the door panel those are the only differences between the car shown and our (W210) cars.

you can order the part form the FASTLANE tab - again - at the top of the page

-Tom

You can check that the 3 bolts holding the check strap to the door are tight, if they are loose they will make the popping noise also.
Gilly

Good point Gilly, also I think one should use Loctite on these, they have been known to work loose.

-Tom

If you check the tightness of the 2 exposed bolts, the ones on the front where the strap exits the door, at least you'll know you're on the right track. If they're loose, tightening will fix it, but you should still take off the panel and tighten the one inside there.
Gilly