95 E320 transmission problem
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 52
Likes: 0
From: Atlanta
95 E320, 2002 E430
95 E320 transmission problem
Hello from Atlanta! My transmission with 232k mi has been slowly getting worse going into reverse. When it's cold, it shifts a lot quicker. The hotter it gets, the more of a delay. It's got to the point I don't park with the nose lower than the tail. This started about a year ago. My parts guy told me the seals were going. Does this sound right? Any ideas on cost to repair? Thanks for your reply.
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,042
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From: Bellevue, NE
1995 E320 SE, 162,000 Miles (Sold) 2007 CLK350 Cabriolet 2014 ML550
There's a ton of info on this very topic using the search function. Enter the word "reverse", select the W124 section, and settle in for some serious reading. Basically, the transmission will require an overhaul. I can't remember the name of the exact part but I think it's a clutch pack. I believe the cost of the repair is around $1200-$1500.
My condolences.
Very common on the W124.
My condolences.
Very common on the W124.
Last edited by shdoug; Feb 27, 2008 at 11:51 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,042
Likes: 1
From: Bellevue, NE
1995 E320 SE, 162,000 Miles (Sold) 2007 CLK350 Cabriolet 2014 ML550
You've done the fan clutch, don't give up on it now! 
Mine had the same reverse issue and also developed a leak in the AC evaporator. Also the body was not the best. If yours is otherwise clean $1500 is not bad for something you can drive for a while longer. It all depends on the condition.
My reverse was slow but never went out so I don't know how much longer it would have lasted. It's interesting that mine was slow in cold weather and not so much in hot weather, just the opposite of yours.
Mine had the same reverse issue and also developed a leak in the AC evaporator. Also the body was not the best. If yours is otherwise clean $1500 is not bad for something you can drive for a while longer. It all depends on the condition.My reverse was slow but never went out so I don't know how much longer it would have lasted. It's interesting that mine was slow in cold weather and not so much in hot weather, just the opposite of yours.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 826
Likes: 4
From: Southeast PA
2010 VW Golf TDI
I had my leaky seals done, but I wish I had not. The flush and fill left me with a shift flair. I think they can leak and it really isn't the thing that is causing your reverse problem. Don't do what i did and fix the seals to get a leak free transmission that needs a rebuild. Just get the rebuild when the car gives in or when you just take it any more worrying that your car may leave you stranded.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 52
Likes: 0
From: Atlanta
95 E320, 2002 E430
Thanks guys for the encouragement and advice on the seals vs rebld. The 320 replace our '84 190E we had for 20 yrs. (yeah, I keep things a long time). My better half misses the 190's driveability, but I was constantly approaching it with some tool or another. Also, no air bags in Atlanta's traffic was a big concern.
The 320's title says Special and the car has SE whells and alum. sills. But there's an Alpine CD mounted int the trunk and I question if that is the oe location. Thanks again for your response.
The 320's title says Special and the car has SE whells and alum. sills. But there's an Alpine CD mounted int the trunk and I question if that is the oe location. Thanks again for your response.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,042
Likes: 1
From: Bellevue, NE
1995 E320 SE, 162,000 Miles (Sold) 2007 CLK350 Cabriolet 2014 ML550
Thanks guys for the encouragement and advice on the seals vs rebld. The 320 replace our '84 190E we had for 20 yrs. (yeah, I keep things a long time). My better half misses the 190's driveability, but I was constantly approaching it with some tool or another. Also, no air bags in Atlanta's traffic was a big concern.
The 320's title says Special and the car has SE whells and alum. sills. But there's an Alpine CD mounted int the trunk and I question if that is the oe location. Thanks again for your response.
The 320's title says Special and the car has SE whells and alum. sills. But there's an Alpine CD mounted int the trunk and I question if that is the oe location. Thanks again for your response.
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