barueba

Hi folks I have a 2003 C32, and just came down with the dreaded glycol contamination issue. I am pretty new to the site, and this was super helpful to help diagose the issue. Measurement came back as 200 mg/l, so not on the high end (at one point, I think 400 mg/l called for replacement of both torque converter and tranny). Tech at the dealer replaced the Valeo radiator with a new Valeo dated 10/2008, flushed ATF from torque converter and tranny and jerking is gone.

My question is - are there any known issues with torque converter and transmission after the fix described? Tech followed the latest service bulletin, and since jerking is gone, he did not replace torque converter or tranny. Does anyone know if the glycol contamination would have caused enough damage that I should push for torque converter and/or transmission replacement at this point? Car is still under extended warranty, but I am afraid I may have issues once warranty expires (which is soon). What have been your experiences and what you'd recommend? TIA.

loudandheard

You should have gotten the other brand of radiator, since the valeo is the known radiator to cause such a problem. If you are not having any problems with your transmission, you should be fine, but if you can convice them to get a new one, I would definitely do it.

pointman

I thought just to early model of Valeo caused issues and the updated one was fine?

jturkel

yes. you are correct.

pointman

Ahh good to know. Thanks.

barueba

The dealer told me the new Valeo would not have the same issue, and even mentioned that they'll do another glycol test within the next 12 months. I was not able to push for t/c or tranny replacement, for now will just monitor if jerkiness comes back. If anyone has had only radiator replaced and flush done, I'd appreciate any feedback on whether that cured the jerkiness problem long term. I am really concerned about long-term effects of glycol on t/c and tranny, and possible issues down the road.

I've dealt with MBUSA twice and both times I have not been satisfied with the resolution...not very effective way to create goodwill or loyalty from customers...

moosejaw

take it up with a MBUSA district rep or offer to pay the difference to use the better radiator

Dingleberry

how do you tell the radiators apart?

barueba

I can see the valeo label on top of the radiator. It should be under the flap that has the mobil 1 sticker.

Camalfi

I have a 2003 C32 purchased in dec 02 assembled in nov 02. Looked for the Valeo label under teh mobile 1 sticker could not find it do I have to remove anything?

Dingleberry

you can tell if it's a valeo by the crimping at the ends of the radiator...

francoisisp

what do you need by the crimping at theend of the radiator, im also interested in this since I happen to have a 2003 manufactured late 2002 aswell plus i just got a faulty trasmition gear ration code.

Camalfi

Can you take a picture. Looked but did not see any crimping