precisionmike

Our son is stranded in Indio, CA with his 1999 e320, we live in AZ. He was at a red light, tried to drive and the car acted like it was in neutral while in drive. I had him look under the car and he says there is fluid leaking just in front of where the exhaust pipes meet.

We have AAA on the way to him, but looking for advice/direction. Any idea what it could be? Thanks in advance!

Mike

precisionmike

Quick update- I had him do the transmission reset procedure and try moving the car- it seems to drive ok. I also had him look at the leak, it has no color or odor, could just be water from the AC (101 degrees out). I have AAA coming, I will have them check the tranny fluid level.

The Shoeman

Glad to hear you have AAA and that restarting/resetting the transmission got him mobile.

Sounds like the transmission is starting to act up on him. I'm sure you are aware of the potential problems causing the transmission to act up on him today.

-Connector plug/socket with O-rings leaking allowing the transmission fluid wick up into the wires and further up to the TCM

or

-Conductor Plate

Definitely don't let it go without having it serviced as it will only continue to rear it's ugly head.

IT WILL NOT FIX ITSELF.

Good luck.

Bill

kajtek1

I doubt AAA will have Mercedes dipstick to check fluid level.
Good part - California has tons of German cars mechanics that will check it for him.
When was the last time pilot bushing was replaced on the car?

precisionmike

So, I actually now have the car in my garage, long funny story.

We determined that it was leaking tranny fluid, the back part of the pan was wet. The car had just enough movement to get onto the trailer we rented. Once home, just enough to get it off the trailer, then had to push it into the garage.

I will start to research the common issues, hope it is not totally gone.

Richard / E320

He didn't spill any liquids in the shifter-console area, did he?

kajtek1

18 yo in Indio alone or with same age friends?
You think he will admit?

precisionmike

Nothing was spilled in the shift area, I read that too.

I ordered the conductor plate, plug connector, fluid, gaskets, etc. Parts will be here Thursday, then the fun begins.

Thanks again, Mike

kajtek1

Sounds like you are getting ready to deal with electric/electronic problems.
Such problem put can into limp mode.
This car did not move.
Did you attempt to troubleshoot it, or just plan to start dropping parts blindfolded?

precisionmike

Yesterday, we replaced the conductor plate, wiring connector, filter and gaskets. What a fun job. The car is back to 100%, no leaks and shifts like a dream. Thanks again for the heads up.

fabbrisd1

If the tranny adapter/plug was leaking internally - do yourself a favor and pull the TCM board in the engine compartment and give it a good flood/cleaning both sides with MAF cleaner - let air dry (no heat) - and reinstall.

That will clean any fluid that "wicked" up the harness - and prevent future mis-communication caused by contaminated board.

Remember to check fluid level 2nd time in about 1-2 weeks after daily driving - at operating temp - best to get fluid level correct 1st time round by double checking 1/2 weeks later..

Keep the beat !

precisionmike

Cool, will do. Thanks for the heads up!