danarog

My car is an '02 with only 88k miles! I've read tons of threads about this... a month ago, my car started jerking into reverse and then drive. If I turn key off it resets... shifts fine... until this week. Now it stays stuck in false neutral, check engine light is now ON, and it makes a god awful noise when driving, so I've parked it. Last month, my indie Benz guy in NC said the code indicated a conductor plate (and battery) issue, but I had to leave town before he was able to fully diagnose. He also said that when he "punched it" it slipped into neutral and the check engine light came on. I had not had engine light prior, but I never punch it... drive like a granny.
I took a chance and bought the part on Amazon for $130 and found a transmission guy here in Chattanooga who said he'll install it for $250 (1-2 day job) Damn good considering my Benz guy was going to charge $895 for everything. Both quotes includes transmission service/fluid. Based strictly on my described symptoms, does it sound like a Conductor plate? What other things might it be... I hate to go into the trans shop Monday sounding clueless and blonde Also, my rear main has had a slow leak forever... would this be a good time to remedy it when getting the conductor plate replaced or should I just leave it be as dealership has recommended for the last 5 years.