Ser05E500

Hi everyone. I took my car to a dealer for engine and transmission update since I have not done that in a while and also had them run the short test on the car.

I got the code that my Valve Gear (Part #A 220 270 18 06) for transmission needs to be changed. It is a 7g tranny and the car is a 2005 E500 8/04 build. Tranny seems to be shifting ok. I did a search and found that people who really had transmission problems changed this part and even then in some cases it didnt help with shifting.

I am out of warranty and dealer is qouting $1290 for the valve gear plus another $400 for the labor. I will try to get this taken care of in the next couple of months since tranny seems to be shifting ok.

What do you guys think. Should I change this immediately so it does not affect other parts of tranny?

konigstiger

What you must take into consideration is that valve body fitted with multiple sensors mounts inside the transmission body along with ATF so particulates can adversely affect operation. IMO the ATF should be changed every 40000. Depending on vehicle mileage/maintenance (MY05 service sheet recommends ATF once @ 39000), it may be best to change out valve body now rather than have the transmission possibly go into limp mode at some point. Part #2202701806 lists for $1190 (parts.com $816.50) unfortunately no DTBs specifically document valve body replacement nevertheless it is a known problem therefore; try to negotiate a cheaper cost with the service manager. Parts/repair warranted for one year/unlimited mileage if you have any concerns afterward. Your call.

SZMB

The valve body was replaced in my car under warranty. You should ask the service manager for a good-will repair, this part shouldn't fail so early in a $70k car. It is a well known issue and in my opinion it's a manufacturing defect or design flaw.

Ser05E500

Thanks guys. I will try to get this taken care of as soon as possible. I changed the ATF 20,000 miles ago and once I get the valve body replaced I will stick with 40,000 mile interval.