vacuum element on trunk lock
 

The vacuum element on the trunk lock of my 1985 300D was leaking, and causing lock and unlock problems on other doors.
Since than I took off the trunk vacuum element and plugged the lock and unlock vacuum lines there. Problems are gone and I can even lock the trunk with the key when the electric central locking system is engaged. The only time I cannot lock the trunk is during driving.

So the question is: do I really need to replace the trunk vacuum element?


Steve

Yes, you can lock and unlock the trunk with the key. The only feature you're missing is being able to open the trunk without the key when the doors are unlocked. Only you can decide if that feature is worth $26 for a new vacuum pod. I did it on my 240D and find it quite handy.