During December, the ML broke down in TN for a catalytic converter problem. When I got it back, there was a nickel-sized hole in the “gearshift selector curtain”, the rubber piece that protects the shifter linkage. I took the ML to an independent mechanic who’s done good work before.

That was two weeks ago. For two weeks, the ML has had problems shifting early in the morning. I’ll start off, and the ML won’t shift automatically up to 2nd. I usually have to downshift to 3rd, then up to D. Once in D, it will not downshift automatically at a stop. These problems weren’t present prior to that service. I took it back, but by that time it was warmed up, and the mechanic couldn’t duplicate the problem. I can’t leave it overnight right now.

Once warmed up, everything is fine. That might take 30 minutes of driving. The temps here have been 30s in the morning. Also, the light for the gear selected will dim and flash or just go out when these problems are being experienced. A solid light for the gear selector usually means everything is fine. There is no CEL indication.

The mechanic told me that replacement of the rubber curtain involves taking the gear shifter out – I know they worked on it for 4 hours. Later, I took the center console out to look for something obvious (loose wire, etc.). Everything looked fine, including the CANBUS adapter connections, the wires to the gearshift selector, etc.

BTW, the odometer is at 260k. The transfer case module has been replaced (years ago), but the transmission is original. Fluid is fine.

Is my transmission gonna die, or is something else going on here?

Regards,
Alan



P.S. I've cross-posted this in the "other" forums.

 

At 260K I guess you should expect anything. Could be a sticking valve body or the electronics. My take is the valve body as the electronics should not be effected by the warm up.

 

Thanks, Sosh!

 

So far, the "short list" of possibilities include:
1. Valve Body
2. Transmission Fluid (I think they did that in TN)
3. Gear Selector Recognition Switch
4. Transmission Speed Sensor
5. Transmission Control Module
6. Transfer Case Electrical Control 163-545-01-32

BTW, manually shifting works fine.