Mercedes W169 W245 Rear Bumper Carrier Cross Member Support Bar

Mercedes W169 W245 Rear Bumper Carrier Cross Member Support Bar is a factory-made rear body reinforcement designed for installation in Mercedes compact family vehicles. This component belongs to the Bumpers and reinforcements group, responsible for providing stable support for the rear bumper and improving the protection of the vehicle's structure during low to medium-energy impacts.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: A1696100114
• Mark: Mercedes (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: A1696100114
• Substitutable numbers: A1696100114, A 169 610 01 14, 6100114
• Location on the vehicle: Rear
• Category: Bumpers & Reinforcements

Purpose and function of the rear bumper cross member

The described cross member is a load-bearing component mounted in the rear zone, designed to transfer bumper loads to the body structure. In practice, this means that in the event of minor collisions, hitting an obstacle, or "tight" parking, the impact energy is distributed over a larger surface area, reducing the risk of damage to the longitudinal members and the trunk floor.

The cross member works in conjunction with the bumper cover and other mounting elements, ensuring:

• stable positioning of the rear bumper along the vehicle's axis,
• maintenance of the proper geometry of the rear body section,
• better structural protection during minor rear-end impacts.

Benefits of using an original Mercedes cross member

Using an original reinforcement from the Bumpers and reinforcements group allows for the preservation of factory mounting points and the structural rigidity intended by the manufacturer. As a result:

• installation is predictable, without the need for modifying holes or fabricating new brackets,
• compatibility with the factory bumper and associated components is maintained,
• the risk of improper bumper alignment with the fenders and trunk lid is reduced.

A used component of this type is a good solution for post-accident repairs when the priority is to restore the correct geometry of the rear body section while maintaining reasonable service costs.

Vehicle placement and installation aspects

The cross member is designed for installation in the rear zone of the vehicle, in the immediate vicinity of the bumper. In practice, it acts as a link between the bumper and the load-bearing body structure, which is why its correct positioning is important for:

• axial alignment of the rear bumper,
• even distribution of loads during an impact,
• maintaining proper gaps between body panels.

When replacing, it is recommended to inspect the mounting points on the body and verify the condition of other elements from the same group to avoid the need for further intervention in the near future.

Application in body and mechanical repairs

The rear bumper cross member is one of the primary components used in repairs following rear-end impacts. Replacing this element is justified when it has been deformed, corroded, or its mounting points have been compromised. Using a verified, used cross member allows you to:

• restore proper bumper support,
• minimize the risk of further damage to the cover during subsequent minor collisions,
• maintain the proper line of the rear body section, which is important for both aesthetic and functional reasons.

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the rear body zone in your Mercedes and need other elements from the same group, such as additional reinforcements, crossbars, or bumper brackets, check the available parts in the Mercedes Bumpers and reinforcements category.

For drivers interested in a broader approach to vehicle maintenance – including the drivetrain – a guide on choosing and operating transmissions may be helpful, available in the article Transmission: manual, automatic, or DSG – common faults and a guide to buying a used gearbox, which facilitates planning further service work on the car.