trans/transfer case failures
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 210
Likes: 0
2011 c300 4m
trans/transfer case failures
those of you who had these parts fail, please post up your experiences if you dont mind? maybe MB has a new and improved part that fails? i see people who had thiers fail who DID do the recomended 39k service intervals so I am wondering why!?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 1,128
Likes: 19
From: Acapulco Mexico
2010 C300 Sport
Frankly the 4Matic's engineering is just a shoddy, piece of junk. The 7G trans isnt far behind as a POS. Not like the fabulous Audi Quattro system or the lesser BMW Xdrive which is less sophisticated but attached to a world-class transmission.
The 4Matic is supposed to be a reliable drive but for conservative drivers only. So no acceleration more than half throttle and no street racing. If its a 2011 yours should still be under warranty so get it fixed and either drive it slow or trade it for a RWD which can handle "normal" driving.
The 4Matic is supposed to be a reliable drive but for conservative drivers only. So no acceleration more than half throttle and no street racing. If its a 2011 yours should still be under warranty so get it fixed and either drive it slow or trade it for a RWD which can handle "normal" driving.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 210
Likes: 0
2011 c300 4m
Frankly the 4Matic's engineering is just a shoddy, piece of junk. The 7G trans isnt far behind as a POS. Not like the fabulous Audi Quattro system or the lesser BMW Xdrive which is less sophisticated but attached to a world-class transmission.
The 4Matic is supposed to be a reliable drive but for conservative drivers only. So no acceleration more than half throttle and no street racing. If its a 2011 yours should still be under warranty so get it fixed and either drive it slow or trade it for a RWD which can handle "normal" driving.
The 4Matic is supposed to be a reliable drive but for conservative drivers only. So no acceleration more than half throttle and no street racing. If its a 2011 yours should still be under warranty so get it fixed and either drive it slow or trade it for a RWD which can handle "normal" driving.
I would hardly call the 7g a POS, programming is very tame and mild to say the least, but remember this is almost identical to the c63/slk55 trans that is bolted to a motor that puts out way more TQ
i do think the 4matic setup isnt the best though. i almost traded in my car earlier this week but to be honest i dont like whats out there and i need AWD, i chose my c300 over a 2010 a4, the a4 was too plain, didnt feel sporty or handle like the mercedes did. i looked at a few BMWs that were x drive but when googled, i found alot of issues with them as well, my c300 is a cpo car so i have a 100k warranty on it. when i get close to that ill get rid of it
Trending Topics
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 757
Likes: 1
From: LI, NY, U.S.A.
2013 GLK 350 4M (Iridium Silver), 2010 E350 Coupe (Iridium Silver)
The 4Matic is supposed to be a reliable drive but for conservative drivers only. So no acceleration more than half throttle and no street racing. If its a 2011 yours should still be under warranty so get it fixed and either drive it slow or trade it for a RWD which can handle "normal" driving.
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 1,128
Likes: 19
From: Acapulco Mexico
2010 C300 Sport
@Crippled - actually there are several variations of the 7G, all lame and slow. The one you mentioned for use in the 500 or 550 series Mercedes (S, E, CSL etc) have a capacity for up to 700 NM. The plebian POS 7G for the C250 C300 C350 and SLK350 etc is good for up to only 400 NM of torque.
The AMG is yet a third variant with a different shifting scheme, however even with this transmission the engines are "torque limited" for the poor capacity of this 7G, and Top Gear mentioned the lameness in their recent review of the C63 Black series.
The AMG is yet a third variant with a different shifting scheme, however even with this transmission the engines are "torque limited" for the poor capacity of this 7G, and Top Gear mentioned the lameness in their recent review of the C63 Black series.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 1,128
Likes: 19
From: Acapulco Mexico
2010 C300 Sport
Not ALL MB transmissions are bad, the 5G 5-speed automatic version in my turbo CDI has gone 220,000 miles with only checking the fluid level, and is the same 800+ NM transmission that is coupled to the V12 in the S and CL. No complaints at all.
As for decent 4WD transport, the Audi A5 Sportback Quattro comes in both the 2.0L turbo and a 333 HP V6 version. Alas, most automobile manufacturers BEST cars never make it to the US, and the A5 Sportback is a fantastic car. If it had been available in late 2009, for sure the C300 would NEVER had been bought.
The major transmission issue is the LAMENESS of the shifting, caused in part by the insufficient pressure used between the valve bodies and the plates, which causes slippage and eventually wear. Even the special AMG version of the 7G for the C63 exhibits this engineering defect, and there are several rebuilds of the valve bodies and the TCU that can greatly improve performance and longevity by applying more pressure to the plates. An explanation of WHY the shifts are so lazy and slow is here:
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...nsmission.html
Again, the 4Matic setup is not very robust in the W204, although the 4WD offered that combines with the 700NM 7G in the G, GL and the M is significantly better. It seems to be a gimmick just for the US, as in England, with their constant rain, snow and ice, the 4Matic isnt even offered, whereas most Audis and BMWs are sold in their 4WD versions.
As for decent 4WD transport, the Audi A5 Sportback Quattro comes in both the 2.0L turbo and a 333 HP V6 version. Alas, most automobile manufacturers BEST cars never make it to the US, and the A5 Sportback is a fantastic car. If it had been available in late 2009, for sure the C300 would NEVER had been bought.
The major transmission issue is the LAMENESS of the shifting, caused in part by the insufficient pressure used between the valve bodies and the plates, which causes slippage and eventually wear. Even the special AMG version of the 7G for the C63 exhibits this engineering defect, and there are several rebuilds of the valve bodies and the TCU that can greatly improve performance and longevity by applying more pressure to the plates. An explanation of WHY the shifts are so lazy and slow is here:
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...nsmission.html
Again, the 4Matic setup is not very robust in the W204, although the 4WD offered that combines with the 700NM 7G in the G, GL and the M is significantly better. It seems to be a gimmick just for the US, as in England, with their constant rain, snow and ice, the 4Matic isnt even offered, whereas most Audis and BMWs are sold in their 4WD versions.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 264
Likes: 3
From: OKC, OK
2022 GLE 450;
I had a 2006 C230 wiith the 7 speed auto that developed shifting problems early on. 4 trips to the dealer for warranty repairs, eventually leading to new valve bodies and it seemed to be better. But it scared me off that car and I sold it as the warranty ran out.
Here I am 4 years later and am considering getting a '08-'09 C300. So they still have the same crappy transmission?
Starting to think I need to warm up to the Lexus IS.
Here I am 4 years later and am considering getting a '08-'09 C300. So they still have the same crappy transmission?
Starting to think I need to warm up to the Lexus IS.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 757
Likes: 1
From: LI, NY, U.S.A.
2013 GLK 350 4M (Iridium Silver), 2010 E350 Coupe (Iridium Silver)
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 1,128
Likes: 19
From: Acapulco Mexico
2010 C300 Sport
@OKClass: Are you serious about the Lexus? When Stateside spent two days with my two sons, BMW fanatics for sure (and yes we took my V12 for a spin... wow). The Lexus just feels so... clunky, slow, numb. All of the IS GS ES in 350 guise. Felt like you were always hauling a loaded trailer. Interior materiales OK but not up to the Merc, Audi or FORD (Belgian built Mondeo at least), but better than the new 2013 3 Series BMW, which they really made of cheap hard plastic in all the obvious places its terrible.
Anyway, about the trans, too bad the 5G wasnt standard on the first W204, it is truly a reliable transmission IMO. If you really want a hot bargain, then go for a 2009 C350 then splurge for rebuilding the valve bodies and TCU upgrade, about $1500. The car will be quick (just under 6 secs, but still much slower than the 3.0L 3 Series), and the full pressure against the plates will insure 150k+ miles without a problem.
Tried to start the C300 this morning. Wouldnt turn over, thats how little I use the thing, my daily driver FORD is just so much nicer to sit in and drive. Also I was paying attention to the response of the transmission and the response is almost instant. Very nice, makes me smile every time I fire up the Mondeo, and passes the "solid vault-like door close test" ever bit as well as the W204.
Anyway, about the trans, too bad the 5G wasnt standard on the first W204, it is truly a reliable transmission IMO. If you really want a hot bargain, then go for a 2009 C350 then splurge for rebuilding the valve bodies and TCU upgrade, about $1500. The car will be quick (just under 6 secs, but still much slower than the 3.0L 3 Series), and the full pressure against the plates will insure 150k+ miles without a problem.
Tried to start the C300 this morning. Wouldnt turn over, thats how little I use the thing, my daily driver FORD is just so much nicer to sit in and drive. Also I was paying attention to the response of the transmission and the response is almost instant. Very nice, makes me smile every time I fire up the Mondeo, and passes the "solid vault-like door close test" ever bit as well as the W204.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 264
Likes: 3
From: OKC, OK
2022 GLE 450;
I hadn't started researching the IS much so I appreciate the input. My main focus has been the C Class so I'm trying to decide if I want to get back into one or not and the transmission is my main concern. The dealership is a good distance from me and it was a PITA when I had to make trips up there but I don't really trust an indy shop with transmission issues.
Wifes car sold today so I'm officially in the market, but I think we are going to borrow a 2nd car until we get in some research and figure out what we want. Don't want to rush into anything and we'll probably have to go to Dallas to find a decent selection to look at.
Personally I'm a BMW guy but my wife just doesn't like them.
Wifes car sold today so I'm officially in the market, but I think we are going to borrow a 2nd car until we get in some research and figure out what we want. Don't want to rush into anything and we'll probably have to go to Dallas to find a decent selection to look at.
Personally I'm a BMW guy but my wife just doesn't like them.
Last edited by Diamond White W212; Nov 10, 2012 at 01:48 PM.
Member
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 97
Likes: 4
2012 MB E350 Coupe
My 2009 C350 4Matic blew its transfer case at 75000Km. It was serviced, at my request, earlier than suggested by owners manual, at 50000Km. Service done by the dealer (fluid & filter change)! I was lucky that it went now as my warranty expires in 2 months. MB Canada approved transmission replacement!
Car has NOT been abused at all.... I've owned it since day 1.
Before this Benz, I've owned A4 Quattro... Never had issues with the 4 wheel drive system, or anything else for that matter... Shouldn't have bought 4Matic...
Car has NOT been abused at all.... I've owned it since day 1.
Before this Benz, I've owned A4 Quattro... Never had issues with the 4 wheel drive system, or anything else for that matter... Shouldn't have bought 4Matic...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1,331
Likes: 9
From: Delaware
2004 Mazda6, 1993 RX7
Frankly the 4Matic's engineering is just a shoddy, piece of junk. The 7G trans isnt far behind as a POS. Not like the fabulous Audi Quattro system or the lesser BMW Xdrive which is less sophisticated but attached to a world-class transmission.
The 4Matic is supposed to be a reliable drive but for conservative drivers only. So no acceleration more than half throttle and no street racing. If its a 2011 yours should still be under warranty so get it fixed and either drive it slow or trade it for a RWD which can handle "normal" driving.
The 4Matic is supposed to be a reliable drive but for conservative drivers only. So no acceleration more than half throttle and no street racing. If its a 2011 yours should still be under warranty so get it fixed and either drive it slow or trade it for a RWD which can handle "normal" driving.
I appreciate all the info you have provided about the nature of the 7G trans, with different torque ratings for the C-Class vs the higher torque rated 7G's for the "upper" classes. I have a few quesitions:
First, is there any progress for the ultimate 7G upgrade to the TCM and the valve body from Weistec Engineering ??
And, I thought you had said the C300's 7G was rated at 300 NM torque. I checked the latest engine ratings and the 3.5L C350 is 366 NM, and the 3.5L C300 is 336 NM. I tried to find you post and couldn't. Is the 7G that much undersized?
You mentioned the C63 7G was better than the C300 version ... what was that one's torque rating?
You were tough on the 4MATICs. Yes, the Torsen center diff in the A4 2.7L I drove was simple and sweet. But what were the specific problems with the 4MATIC, with the rear wheel bias, it looked to me:
Cutaway of the 4MATIC
Finally, you were not pleased with the learned poor shifting of your 7G TCM, and just drove it once a month or so. If you spent an hour one day driving the heck out of it (or better yet take it to a track and drive it at 7 tenths to learn something) , then if you were frisky that 1 day a month you drove it, would it not be well read on how to shift aggressively?
Kevin
.
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Mercedes Benz C300 4Matic
C300 Transfer case failure on 2011 4Matic
I have a little over 50k miles on this car. It started making a strange noise a few months ago. The mechanic could not figure it out. Said the noise needed to "mature" first! Okay, well flash forward a few months, and the noise has graduated from high school by now!! They diagnosed the problem to be a failure of the transfer case. Cost to do repair? $6000 big ones! I have been reading about the issue, and it appears that it could cause the vehicle to fail at higher speeds. Dangerous to say the least. I am wondering if anyone else has faced this issue with the same model, and whether MB would be willing to at least meet me halfway on cost of repair!?
