1995 E320 wagon

here is a silly question. what kind of behavior should I expect from my armrest compartment? There is a tiny strut in there so is it supposed to open the lid for me like the 5th door on my wagon? should I experience "resistance" when closing (that is to say strut prevents me slamming the lid)? I opened it up and pulled the micro strut and is very easy to actuate with your fingers. its like it doesn't do anything. I suppose this is a dealer-only part no?