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Some refer to the check straps on the W123,s as  a weakness, however we must bear in mind they are now 30 to 40 years old and its fair to say that there almost entitled to fail. the usual sign that there about to let go is the groaning and stiffness when opening and closing. The picture here shows the top one clearly failed and the replacement prior to fitting. though not part of any maintenance plan as such anytime your inside the door for any reason lubrication of the strap is recommended.