New transmission at 63k mi?!
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 3,076
Likes: 28
From: Seattle, WA
99 ML430, 01 CLK55, 07 R63, 15 E63 Wagon
New transmission at 63k mi?!
Hello, been a long time lurker of these forums. I drive a 1997 S500 with 63k miles. Original owner, always babied, and always had regular services at the dealer. Just recently the transmission is having hard shifts and a lot of lurching especially going up hills. One time on a freeway on ramp the transmission wouldn't get out of 1st gear and the RPM's went up, so I released the gas and then stepped on it again and then it started shifting gears. Took it in to the dealer and they say it needs a new transmission and it costs roughly $6,700. I've had great success with the professionalism and service at this dealer, so I doubt they're pulling my leg on this one. Car just recently went in for the 60k tune up as well (or service B, forgot what it's called.) But how can this be normal?! Car is a little over 11 years old, and doesn't even have 100k on it yet! Anyone else have similar experiences?
Thanks in advance for your input!
Thanks in advance for your input!
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 835
Likes: 2
From: Bay Area, CA
09' E320
It happens.....not common. Your model 722.6 got updated seals at solenoids (twice?) to prevent fluid wicking up the harness and ruining the ECU. The conductor plate was also updated in 97 I think.
Was originally "filled for life". Recently changed to change fluid once at 39k miles. Two years from now they will prob say change every 39k miles.
I'd check your records and see if THEY ever changed it; runs about $250-300 pending where you are located.
If they haven't, ask WHY when EVERYONE knows the service interval was changed. Negociate to get a MB warrantied replacement trans for 1/2 price. They'll budge since you're a good customer and bought new. Last person I spoke to about this got some $ from the dealer and some from MBUSA.
If they dont, rebuilt 722.6 trans are available for ~$2500 + install.
Was originally "filled for life". Recently changed to change fluid once at 39k miles. Two years from now they will prob say change every 39k miles.
I'd check your records and see if THEY ever changed it; runs about $250-300 pending where you are located.
If they haven't, ask WHY when EVERYONE knows the service interval was changed. Negociate to get a MB warrantied replacement trans for 1/2 price. They'll budge since you're a good customer and bought new. Last person I spoke to about this got some $ from the dealer and some from MBUSA.
If they dont, rebuilt 722.6 trans are available for ~$2500 + install.
Last edited by TMAllison; Jan 19, 2009 at 09:39 PM.
