Upper rear black panels-clear coat problem

[defuser]

The upper rear black corners of my 2000 ML320 need to be replaced. All of the clearcoat is coming off. I purchased new panels at my local dealer and come to find that there are no clips to hold them in place. I'm guessing they used glue. I'm a DIY and would like to know how to R & R these panels

Jeff

[ML320guy]

The rear "corners" between the side & rear glass are "glued" on with a product used with automotive glass installation. I'm not sure exactly what it is but the dealer or a glass installer would have it.

P.S. How much did the replacement panels cost?

[defuser]

Believe it or not.....$64 for pass. side and $110 for drivers side. The dealer couldn't tell me why either. They had a lot in stock, so it must be a common problem.

[ML320guy]

Originally Posted by defuser

$64 for pass. side and $110 for drivers side..

We're talking about the black plastic that is between the side & rear glass, right? Each side looks identical. How could the price be different? If they were identical in shape, I'd just buy two of the lower priced!

[steve32]

Each side is different in shape, and I also paid more for one side. I replaced both earlier this year as they had cracked in the middle. I am not sure what kind of adhesive/glue MB used, but it was so strong, the only way to get the panels off was to break them and remove it in pieces. I tried various adhesive removers in an attempt to soften it, but was unsuccessful. The glue is a flexible black rubber composite and has 2 to 3 different contact points per panel. Perhaps someone can better provide a solution of removing them with ease. Good luck.