Hi Kevin (or someone else by now),
I realize that this post is 3 years from when you posted, but i'll give it a shot anyway
I have run into the same problem in my 2000 ML430. The hood is stuck and I am unable to get it open. I have taken "most" of the grill off. But as I do not know what i'm looking for, I"m looking for some guidance. You mentioned a microswitch for the alarm, where is that located? Can anyone describe it a little better for me?
Thanks,
Riz