ss3964spd

All,

It appear that the trans is slipping on the 1st to 2nd shift. I can feel it, and see it on the tach.

Has anyone experienced the same? If so, what was the fix?

Thanks,

Dan

Polar Bear

Can you describe it more? The transmission is designed to "slip" some in during gear changes to prevent jerking. The timing retards and the transmission slides into gear. Do you see/hear it rev up quite a bit then jerk into gear?

ss3964spd

Thanks for the reply PB.

I do understand the ignition retards at the shift points. I've had the car for over 3 years now and am in tune with how it behaves. This is a new development.

No, it does not jerk into 2nd - more of an ooze. Rather like there isn't enough line pressure being applied to the clutch pack. The shift point comes up and just as it begins the shift RPM's rise by 2, maybe 3 hundred, then 2nd is applied smoothly. Seems more pronounced under moderate throttle.

Regards,

Dan

sknight

Mileage? Has the fluid ever been changed?

KEY08

Mainly cold condition or during every shift even when warmed up?

ss3964spd

Mileage is a hair over 80K. Maintenance schedule has been followed.

Difficult to tell when it's cold since the ECU delays up shifts when cold, and I always take it easy on the car untill it is warmed up.

And it isn't intermittent - I can reproduce the symptom at will.

Dan

sknight

The schedule, did it include the transmission?

ss3964spd

Honestly, I have no idea if there is a trans fluid change performed as part of any of the reguarly scheduled maintenance programs (A,B,C,D,E).

Dan

sknight

That's why I asked. Your answer was extremely vague and the transmission services were quietly reintroduced, and at that, they don't seem to be getting performed unless done as separate services, so I'm doubtful, although it's your responsibility to know what is covered than assuming under the scheduled maintenance. The problem is it's well known that these transmissions need to be serviced at about 30-40k miles.

Regardless, go to the dealer. You're not going to be able to do anything about it, neither can the internet. Do this before more damage is done.

KEY08

...and then let us know what the diagnosis is back in this thread as it may help another owner with a similar condition. Hope the solution is not a new trans.

ss3964spd

I appreciate your comments SK, but I would argue that it is my responsibility to know what tasks are performed as part of the regular maintenance calls. If one of the A-E service calls requires that the transmission fluid be replaced my expectation is that the service department did so. Similar to changing the oil. Indeed, there is isn't a dip stick to even check the transmission fluid or engine oil. How many people actually know what work needs to be performed before they take their car in? Pretty certain it's one of the reasons the service reminder system was developed, and the owners assume any needed maintenance will be performed on schedule.

Regardless, you are correct - won't be solved over the internet, but I was just trying to arm myself with information before taking it in.

Regards,

Dan

sknight

This is Mercedes- don't expect anything being done right 100% of the time.

KEY08

My guess is the torque converter. Leak or other issue and hopefully you can get back here with the answer. The transmission service schedule did change and hopefully your dealer followed the new schedule and did the proper flush and service as you have stated. Sounds like you have serviced your car by the book and I would question your SA if something pops up that should have been addressed along the way so you don't suffer a big bill. Oh yeah, looks like you like Muscle cars. My toy is a 1969 Mach 1 390 4SPD Good luck!