Then a miracle happenned.....
 

Since I've had some time off for the holidays, I thought I'd replace the passenger seat switch in my '97 E320. For the last month the switch would only move the seat forward regardless of the direction the switch was moved. The pre-programmed settings were the only way to get the headrest down and the seat moved back.

I searched the previous threads and decided to buy some contact cleaner and see if I could clean the switch up a bit before I dropped $130 on a new switch. So, off to Radio Shack I went, picked up the contact cleaner, came home to pull the switch out.

I sat in the passenger seat and began removing the buttons. When I got to the lower (front/back) button the seat moved back??!?!?!!?

Problem solved. Go figure????? Any thoughts on what the heck happened? Late Xmas present?

I think it knew you were after it so it straightened up and flew right! :P

I think you're right - pretty bizarre. I hate electrical stuff for this reason but the good news is I don't have to buy the switch, yet.

By chance did you have the passenger door open? The seats in the SDL only operate with the door open. I know how to fix that problem but have left it alone as a secret "child proofing" ;)

Actually there is a known problem with those seat switches whereas the solder joints come lose from the circuit board. The switches are soldered directly on to the circuit board, moving them back and forth loosens the solder. You can remove the switch and re-solder it and it will last for a few more years, there was an article in the Star about it. If it starts acting up again you might want to check it out. Happy Benzing!
Brian

Prior to applying my mechanical wizardry the switch failed to operate with the door open or closed with the power on. Now it works both with the door open or closed (with the power on).

I think that's got to be it. Maybe when I put my screwdriver under the button it re-engaged the contacts. I'll look for the article in Star.

Thanks for responding.