Hi all,

I recently got given a MB C270 CDI, from my point of view the car's condition isn't in too bad, but there are a few problems.

Firstly my major concern is the transmission(automatic) isn't shifting gears, I believe this is a transmission fluid issue?

Secondly there is a cooling issue, the temperature doesn't exceed 100'C but the Water/Coolant-tank and coolant pipes keep bursting, why??

Thirdly there seems to be an Oil-like substance in the coolant, noticed with previously mentioned issue. Previous owner said it could be the head-gasket or the transmission.

I'm willing to spend a few bucks on the car seeing as I got it for FREE!!


note that the vehicle has 300,000Km on it, has a few minor bumps and bruises but most of exterior is in good condition, and interior is in Excellent condition.

Your insight will be greatly appreciated.

 

Hi Franco,
From your description ( oil in the water), it sounds like a blown head gasket. If you are not a DIY type of guy, take it to a good mechanic for diagnosis. This may also be the cause of the coolant pipes bursting.
As far as the gearbox is concerned, it sounds like limp mode. There are many posts on this forum adressing that specific problem...

 

OP didn't post year of car, but I'm betting it's an early W203 with defective Valeo radiator, hence the mixing of coolant and transmission oil. Thus, transmission issues and cooling issues.

Search the thread for defective valeo radiator issue. Messy and painful fix. I'm surprised the car made it to 300,000km. Not really worth it to have someone else fix it as the cost will easily be many times what the car is worth! But if you're mechanically inclined and willing to flush the heck out of cooling and transmission system,.... but depending on how bad the transmission is now, you might need a new one!
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...ml#post2254029
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...l203-s203.html