Try entering your Mercedes-Benz sedan, coupe, roadster, SUV, or van without using the exterior door handles. You'd have a tough time of it, unless you left your windows rolled all the way down -- which is both unsafe and unwise, especially if there's nasty weather looming.

Exterior door handles are generally made of either plastic or metal, since these durable materials are better able to withstand repeated daily use. The handle attaches to a metal rod that runs to your door latch. As you pull the handle, the rod and door latch respond by moving and freeing you to pull the door from the door frame.

Door handles can go bad, though. Common problems include detachment from the door itself, or losing the connection to the rod or latch. If either occurs, you're left unable to open the door in the way you've grown accustomed.

Replacing a door handle isn’t a tough DIY project, but you'll want to check your owner's manual for any specific steps you need to consider. Generally, you'll need to remove any hardware holding the door handle in place. Then disconnect any locks and wires before carefully removing the handle. Before installing the new handle, add rubber gaskets to form a proper seal. Place the new handle, reconnect the wires and locks, and then re-install the hardware you removed in the first step. Finally, test the door handle to ensure that it works. Voila! You're good to go!

Genuine Mercedes-Benz Exterior Door Handles Work Best

The best exterior door handles for your vehicle are the ones that your manufacturer designed for it, since they're guaranteed to be compatible. Search our online parts inventory by model and year to find yours, in stock and ready to ship. Buy today to take advantage of our rapid nationwide shipping!