New for 2004
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 6,340
Likes: 22
From: Southern California, USA
2003 CL55 AMG
New for 2004
I have now read that all 2004 CL55's have updated transmission firmware that allows using the fingertip shift buttons in ANY mode including the "C"omfort and "S"port more. It is no longer necessary to pop into "M"anual mode.
This would make sense since owners with late build 2003 AMG's have posted they could up/downshift in any mode as well.
Question is, do you feel this feature is a pro or a con ?
Many times while turning I accidentally hit one of the buttons and would find it more of a hassle to have them active all the time.
This would make sense since owners with late build 2003 AMG's have posted they could up/downshift in any mode as well.
Question is, do you feel this feature is a pro or a con ?
Many times while turning I accidentally hit one of the buttons and would find it more of a hassle to have them active all the time.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,111
Likes: 1
It Varies
Re: New for 2004
Originally posted by awiner
I have now read that all 2004 CL55's have updated transmission firmware that allows using the fingertip shift buttons in ANY mode including the "C"omfort and "S"port more. It is no longer necessary to pop into "M"anual mode.
This would make sense since owners with late build 2003 AMG's have posted they could up/downshift in any mode as well.
Question is, do you feel this feature is a pro or a con ?
Many times while turning I accidentally hit one of the buttons and would find it more of a hassle to have them active all the time.
I have now read that all 2004 CL55's have updated transmission firmware that allows using the fingertip shift buttons in ANY mode including the "C"omfort and "S"port more. It is no longer necessary to pop into "M"anual mode.
This would make sense since owners with late build 2003 AMG's have posted they could up/downshift in any mode as well.
Question is, do you feel this feature is a pro or a con ?
Many times while turning I accidentally hit one of the buttons and would find it more of a hassle to have them active all the time.
I feel that this is a definite disadvantage.
First, it really doesn't take much to change the setting to M from C/S.
Second, it's almost a type of safety feature. For example, if my dad/mom drive the car, I feel much better knowing that it is set on c/s without the manual being engaged, just in case their finger accidentally presses it and an unexpected downshift or worse a couple downshifts is triggered and they launch into the car in front of them.
The buttons are really easy to be accidentally pressed and having to engage in Manual mode is in my opinion, a good feature to have.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 330
Likes: 0
From: Boston
2003 CL55
I agree that it is not a necessary change, as I rarely use the buttons, especially in a turn. Statinary paddles are need for gear changing in a corner. It is easier for me to just use the shift lever and snick it left or right. About the only time I need to downshift is to hold a gear in a corner. The automatic function is quite fast on acceleration and I doubt that I could do better manually.
About the only change that I would make is to keep the front seat backs from poping back after one moves them forward to gain access to the back seats.
Oh yes, I am most greatful that MB stayed with conventional brakes, not the ones they put on the SL and new E class cars, which I gather they plan to modify to increase their functionality--and stopping distances.
About the only change that I would make is to keep the front seat backs from poping back after one moves them forward to gain access to the back seats.
Oh yes, I am most greatful that MB stayed with conventional brakes, not the ones they put on the SL and new E class cars, which I gather they plan to modify to increase their functionality--and stopping distances.
