Automatic Transmission Fluid Flush Needed?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 11
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2009 E550
Automatic Transmission Fluid Flush Needed?
I took my 2010 ML-350 for some routine maintenance to an indie shop, a good one, to whom I have taken several other (non-MB) vehicles over the years. One of the service items that I requested was the "one-time" ATF fluid flush and filter change that the MB maintenance guide requires at 39,000 miles. The shop's MB-trained tech, who has 12 years of prior experience working at an MB dealership, told me that this "one-time" AT service was unnecessary and had the potential to do more harm than good. He said that, despite what the MB maintenance schedule indicates, his MB training emphasized that these 7-speed transmissions were considered to be sealed units, not to be opened, even for a fluid change, unless malfunctioning.
I know that this topic has been discussed here before on more than one occasion, but does anyone have any input on the tech's comments? Should I believe what he says, or should I begin looking for a different shop?
Mike R.
I know that this topic has been discussed here before on more than one occasion, but does anyone have any input on the tech's comments? Should I believe what he says, or should I begin looking for a different shop?
Mike R.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 5,761
Likes: 4
From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
This was the same "theory" on previous MB tranny'sMy C43 AMG had a "sealed for life" tranny.My question was"If its sealed for life,how come its not warranties for life"?.I have ML tranny serviced every 30k.
Member
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 142
Likes: 1
From: Braselton,GA
2008 ML320cdi Irid.silver, 2013 VW Jetta Prem. Tdi Dsg red
I recently went to dealer with my 08 320cdi, to get serp.belt changed & check for trans. program update. I had 75k, & asked about a trans. fluid flush & fill at 80k. The serv.advisor told & showed me the screen showing it should be changed 1x at 40k & that's it. I plan on changing at 100k though, just to make me feel better...Lol
