M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

2000 ML 320 transmission stuck in 4th gear

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Old May 7, 2015 | 10:51 PM
  #1  
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1999 ML 320
2000 ML 320 transmission stuck in 4th gear

Hello.
I have a problem with my automatic transmission in my 2000 ML 320. After about a half hour of driving, it seems the tranny gets stuck in 4th gear. So when I come to a stop and try to accelarate again it takes off extremely slow. Also it will not go into reverse either. When I try to put it in reverse it just reves like it's in neutral. If I shut off the engine and then restart it immediatelly it will be OK!!!. (Untill it does it again in a half hour)
Can anyone please help?
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Old May 8, 2015 | 03:43 AM
  #2  
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2002 ML320, 2003 A160
Your ML is going into limp-home mode. The next thing to do is have the codes read by a professional mechanic. An independent Euro specialist (less expensive) or MB dealer workshop (very expensive) can help with this.

Read more about this problem here: http://manual.startekinfo.com/manual...d1/2_3/m11.jsp
Mechanical-hydraulic limp-home mode

In order to prevent damage to the automatic transmission in the event of an
mechanical-hydraulic fault,
the transmission shifts into 3rd gear and is held in this gear, or
the transmission shifts to the last "known good" gear and is held in that gear.

This type of limp-home mode is reset by turning the ignition OFF,
and then ON again.
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Old May 9, 2015 | 03:23 AM
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1999 ML 320
Thank you so much. I assume that changing the transmission fluid and filter, even though it is "for life" could possibly ameliorate the situation, since the truck has 120,000 miles. ButI have read conflicting opinions about changing the fluid. Some say just change the fluid in the pan and some recommend changing the fluid in the converter as well. What do you think?
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Old May 9, 2015 | 03:40 AM
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2002 ML 320 & 2006 ML500
King, as already suggested, you will have to have the codes read in every module, ECM, Traction Control Module and Transmission control Module.
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Old May 11, 2015 | 02:23 AM
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2002 ML320, 2003 A160
Originally Posted by KingFloyd
Some say just change the fluid in the pan and some recommend changing the fluid in the converter as well. What do you think?
I think you should have your codes read.

As for trans fluid changes, if your fluid is 120,000 miles old, it makes more sense to change as much as you can for new fluid. What's the point of mixing 4 quarts of new fluid with 5 quarts of old black stuff? There is no reason to be afraid of servicing your transmission.

I suppose reading and believing the opinions of doomsayers could be a reason for fear.
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Old May 19, 2015 | 01:20 PM
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1999 ML 320
Hi everyone,
EPC states that the transmission for my 1999 ML 320 VIN number 4JG1631541A129869 is 722.662 . I have the opportunity to buy a transmission 722.606 from an E class Mercedes 1999. Does anyone know if the electronic module fit? The codes I had read state that the "speed sensor / electronic module is faulty. Mercedes charges too much for it and I have an opprtunity to buy an entire transmission cheaper in good condition, but I only want to change the electronic module above the valve body. Please advise. Thank you

Last edited by KingFloyd; May 19, 2015 at 01:22 PM. Reason: Misspelling
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Old May 19, 2015 | 06:59 PM
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2002 ML320, 2003 A160
You only need to replace or repair the faulty part. You can buy the electronic module separately, new or used, for much less than the whole transmission.

If you had a punctured tyre, would you buy a whole front axle?

If Mercedes charge too much, you should seek a quote from an independent transmission specialist. It is a job I reckon you could do yourself, if you can get the tools, do the homework, and make the time.

Watch a few of the videos in this series and you'll find out how easy this is:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdt4g5jqo4E

Last edited by DrX; May 19, 2015 at 07:04 PM.
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Old May 20, 2015 | 12:14 AM
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1999 ML 320
Thank you for the advice. The questiom is if anyone knows if the electronic module from a transmission from a 1999 E class -722.606 would be compatible to my 1999 Ml 320 VIN nr. 4JGAB54E7XA129869.
Thank you all for chimimg in. I appreciate your expertise
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Old May 20, 2015 | 02:55 PM
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2003 ML55,2007 ML63
The conductor plate costs around $150-00.
Kingfloyd, I think you are confusing things......What electronic module are you talking about? The gearbox from the E class will not include any modules. Are you talking about ETM? If you are talking about speed sensor, then it must be the conductor plate.

Last edited by art_arev; May 20, 2015 at 02:58 PM.
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Old May 20, 2015 | 11:13 PM
  #10  
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2002 ML320, 2003 A160
Originally Posted by art_arev
...What electronic module are you talking about? The gearbox from the E class will not include any modules. Are you talking about ETM? If you are talking about speed sensor, then it must be the conductor plate.
Art, I think he's referring to the electrohydraulic control module, which is otherwise known as the conductor plate.
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Old May 21, 2015 | 10:53 AM
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1999 ML 320
Yes ..I meant the conductor plate. Thank you.... Anyway I confirmed that the whole electronic assembly and the electrovalves are the same. In my region, Mercedes charges close to 1000 euros for it and I have the opportunity to buy it for 100. That's why I'm not getting it new. Thanks again to all of you
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Old May 21, 2015 | 10:58 AM
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1999 ML 320


These are the parts I was reffering to. Thanks
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Old May 23, 2015 | 01:03 AM
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2003 ML55,2007 ML63
Part #20, the conductor plate, costs $150-00 brand new(original MB).
I don't know why you are not buying it online. You can get it from E-bay UK.
Do not buy a second hand unit.
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