C-Class (W203) 2001-2007, C160, C180, C200, C220, C230, C240, C270, C280, C300, C320, C230K, C350, Coupe

722.6 gearbox issue upshifting early/stalling

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Old Dec 18, 2023 | 07:24 AM
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W203 c220cdi
722.6 gearbox issue upshifting early/stalling

Hello. I have a W203 C220 CDI 2006 with automatic transmission. It had a transmission issue, getting stuck in third gear, and I couldn't use the Tiptronic for shifting up or down. An error message indicated a problem within the transmission. After changing the gears, it functions somewhat oddly. When you gently accelerate, it seems to upshift earlier than it should, and the RPMs drop as if it might stall. If I maintain higher RPMs, it seems okay.

No error codes appear on the computer. The service told me it might be a torque converter issue. Has anyone experienced a similar problem? Should I take it to someone who specializes in transmissions or someone familiar with W203 models?
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Old Dec 18, 2023 | 09:09 AM
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Hi Andy,, I hope this helps.. The symptoms you're describing with your W203 C220 CDI automatic transmission could indeed be related to various issues. Here are a few potential causes to consider:

Torque Converter Problems: A malfunctioning torque converter might lead to the transmission getting stuck in a single gear or causing irregular shifting patterns. The torque converter transfers power from the engine to the transmission and can affect gear changes.

Transmission Fluid Level/Condition: Low or dirty transmission fluid can cause irregular shifting and affect the transmission's performance. Ensure the fluid level is correct and that the fluid is clean and not burnt.

Transmission Control Module (TCM): Issues with the TCM could lead to unusual gear shifts and performance. A diagnostic scan tool capable of reading transmission-specific codes might reveal any errors within the TCM.

Solenoid or Valve Body Malfunction: Faulty solenoids or issues with the valve body can cause erratic gear changes and shifting problems.

Given the complexity of automatic transmissions, it might be best to consult with a specialized transmission mechanic or a technician familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles, especially the W203 models. They can conduct a more detailed diagnostic using professional-grade diagnostic tools that can read transmission-specific fault codes. A full system scanner like the Youcanic scanner you mentioned could indeed help diagnose any underlying issues within the vehicle's control modules.
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Old Dec 18, 2023 | 09:52 AM
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Originally Posted by Vin_16
Hi Andy,, I hope this helps.. The symptoms you're describing with your W203 C220 CDI automatic transmission could indeed be related to various issues. Here are a few potential causes to consider:

Torque Converter Problems: A malfunctioning torque converter might lead to the transmission getting stuck in a single gear or causing irregular shifting patterns. The torque converter transfers power from the engine to the transmission and can affect gear changes.

Transmission Fluid Level/Condition: Low or dirty transmission fluid can cause irregular shifting and affect the transmission's performance. Ensure the fluid level is correct and that the fluid is clean and not burnt.

Transmission Control Module (TCM): Issues with the TCM could lead to unusual gear shifts and performance. A diagnostic scan tool capable of reading transmission-specific codes might reveal any errors within the TCM.

Solenoid or Valve Body Malfunction: Faulty solenoids or issues with the valve body can cause erratic gear changes and shifting problems.

Given the complexity of automatic transmissions, it might be best to consult with a specialized transmission mechanic or a technician familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles, especially the W203 models. They can conduct a more detailed diagnostic using professional-grade diagnostic tools that can read transmission-specific fault codes. A full system scanner like the Youcanic scanner you mentioned could indeed help diagnose any underlying issues within the vehicle's control modules.
Thank you for your detailed answer. I was thinking on checking with someone that works with automatic gearboxes, but he can only leave an appointment in Jannuary.

Somebody told me that the gearbox may need coding after the conductor change? Is that true?

I have to mention that the gearbox was actually perfect before the conductor change. It stuck on 3rd gear, temporarily until I shut it on and off, and based on the error code I replaced it. ( a mechanic actually, as I am not a DIY guy).
Oil and filter was changed 1-2k km ago.

Anyway, the mechanic that changed the conductor, can't find what is causing the erratic shift.
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Old Dec 18, 2023 | 10:12 AM
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You can confirm with other gearbox mechanic if the gearbox needs reprogramming after the conductor has been changed, modern vehicles, especially those equipped with advanced electronic control systems requires reprogramming. The coding or reprogramming process is generally performed using specialized diagnostic tools and software that interface with the vehicle's transmission control module (TCM) or associated control units.
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Old Dec 20, 2023 | 01:32 PM
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Did your pilot bushing ever get updated? The old versions had faulty o-rings that allowed transmission fluid to see up the cables and into the TCU.
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Old Dec 20, 2023 | 03:13 PM
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Originally Posted by slammer111
Did your pilot bushing ever get updated? The old versions had faulty o-rings that allowed transmission fluid to see up the cables and into the TCU.
Yes, it was actually part of the conductor plate as far as I know.

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Old Dec 21, 2023 | 12:58 PM
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I need help.

I went to a gearbox specialist. He said that this is a typical torque converter problem. He mentioned that the car makes some noise on the low rpm and lower gears, so definitely the TC.
Oil was dirty even though I changed it recently. So all good, symptoms pointed to torque converter.
He said, he usually gets the parts from a trusted seller of used parts. He test those out, and then replace. He gave me a good price and I went for it.

Now, after the work is done, he says: Your torque converter was different than I thought, and those are 3x expensive. I didn't want to change the price I gave, so I used another one. Everything now is great he said.
I asked about the difference. If my converter was more expensive, it must have a reason? Maybe it's better. Maybe the car wont perform the same.🤔

I am getting my car tomorrow morning, and I want to make sure I ask the right questions. Also, how can I test the car?
I dont want to use these kind of inventions. I would have paid for more, or refurbish my old one just so I have something good. 😤
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Old Dec 21, 2023 | 01:29 PM
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W203 c220cdi
Need help

Not sure why but last comment didnt come through...

Went to a gearbox mechanic and he said this is a typical torque converter issue. He drove the car, noticed a noise on low rpm, low gears. Said defintely TC.
When checking oil, found pieces of metal, so TC went wrong.
All good till now, he gave me a good price and said he uses used parts from a trusted source. He tests those out and then does the replacement. I said why not.

After changing the torque converter, he says. All went good. I found out that you have a different kind of TC than I thought, but that is more pricey. 3-4x more than the price I said earlier.
I didn't want to change the initial deal, so I adapted and added a different one. 😱
What does this even mean? Why didnt you ask?
What difference does it have? Was mine supposed to be better?

I am getting the car tomorrow. What should I do? How to test it out?
What kind of TC could he fit, that may be cheaper but yet do the same work. I don't even want to deal with this kind of person anymore. Maybe I'll get my old TC and refurbish it somewhere else.
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Old Dec 30, 2023 | 04:55 AM
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Gee might have just been fluid and fluid level. Did you even check it?
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Old Dec 30, 2023 | 06:35 AM
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Originally Posted by C230 Sport Coup
Gee might have just been fluid and fluid level. Did you even check it?
Of course I checked, the oil was replaced after changing the conductor plate.
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