Service bulletin question and 7G transmission update.
10-14-2008, 09:44 PM
#1
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2007 C230SS; 2014 ML350 BT
Service bulletin question and 7G transmission update.
So, I dropped off my 07 C230 on Monday morning for some warranty work and a transmission service. So, I have been without my car for the last 2 days and driving an 08 Saturn Aura as a loaner. 
So, I was having some issues lately with the 7G shifting weird and having a harsh 4-5 upshift. Generally speaking I am of the minority and really like the 7G transmission, but lately it has been finicky. So, my dealer flashed the transmission AND engine control modules with new software. Since I am at ~38K miles, I also had the transmission serviced while it was there. After driving the car a few miles, I was amazed at the difference just software made on the transmission. The shifts are more precise and overall drivability is improved. Maybe the fresh fluid and filter helped, but doesn't matter, as I am very happy with the results.
As most of you know, I ordered my car from the factory and it was one of the last 07's to come off the line, but there was still updates to the engine and transmission control modules. So, anyone with an 06 or 07, I recommend getting the dealer to flash the updates, as it is worth the hassle of taking it in.
On another note, I had the car in for popping felt in the steering wheel at low speeds and the dealer replaced both the "torque strut bearings", per DTB P-B-33.15/20. Anyone have any info on this service bulletin? The part number was 203 333 10 14. After a search I found that these are the thrust arm bushings referenced in this thread: https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=261691
So, I was having some issues lately with the 7G shifting weird and having a harsh 4-5 upshift. Generally speaking I am of the minority and really like the 7G transmission, but lately it has been finicky. So, my dealer flashed the transmission AND engine control modules with new software. Since I am at ~38K miles, I also had the transmission serviced while it was there. After driving the car a few miles, I was amazed at the difference just software made on the transmission. The shifts are more precise and overall drivability is improved. Maybe the fresh fluid and filter helped, but doesn't matter, as I am very happy with the results.
As most of you know, I ordered my car from the factory and it was one of the last 07's to come off the line, but there was still updates to the engine and transmission control modules. So, anyone with an 06 or 07, I recommend getting the dealer to flash the updates, as it is worth the hassle of taking it in.
On another note, I had the car in for popping felt in the steering wheel at low speeds and the dealer replaced both the "torque strut bearings", per DTB P-B-33.15/20. Anyone have any info on this service bulletin? The part number was 203 333 10 14. After a search I found that these are the thrust arm bushings referenced in this thread: https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=261691
Last edited by johnand; 10-14-2008 at 09:50 PM.
10-15-2008, 07:39 AM
#2
Super Moderator
I don't have a 7G but have many friends that do. They all report what you have. Vastly more precise shifting after the software update. Non of them serviced their transmissions.
11-17-2008, 02:57 AM
#4
MBWorld Fanatic!
I want everyone to know, that when you change your transmission oil, your dealer should update the transmission software.
When the transmission software is updated, the car will feel very smooth during gearshifts. It's important that you drive the car in a "break-in" fashion and avoid spirited driving during this phase.
The reason why the gearshifts seem slower is because the gearshifts are actually done slower, for instance, even in the "S" mode, it's still shifting at a reduced speed. Over the period of approximately 500 miles, it will return to its more normal speed.
When it returns to the normal shifting speed, then you should make an evaluation of the improvements in the transmission gearshifts.
When the transmission software is updated, the car will feel very smooth during gearshifts. It's important that you drive the car in a "break-in" fashion and avoid spirited driving during this phase.
The reason why the gearshifts seem slower is because the gearshifts are actually done slower, for instance, even in the "S" mode, it's still shifting at a reduced speed. Over the period of approximately 500 miles, it will return to its more normal speed.
When it returns to the normal shifting speed, then you should make an evaluation of the improvements in the transmission gearshifts.
