Tail Light Switch problems of the 2008 Mercedes Benz E350

Upon exiting my vehicke. , I noticed a strong burning smell but could not pinpoint it. Over the next couple of days the smell persisted and my dashboard warning system alerted me that my tail lights were not working. The messages were alternating between rear left tail lights, rear right brake and tail lights, the turn signals, etc. It was just changing all the time. I took it in to the mercedes dealer and they said I needed an entire tail light assembly and then told me they didn't know. As if now I have another appointment for 7 Jan 2920.