nathandimond

Hello, I have been researching for weeks trying to decide which Benz to buy. I narrowed it down to the C43, W202 C280, and W140 S420 or S500. I have decided not to buy the C43 due to the above average transmission failure I see mentioned so often. Had it not been for this issue, I would have no problem buying a C43. What I found interesting about this issue, and also confusing, is that the 722.631 transmission used in the C43 is also used in the late model W140 sedans; yet I don't see very many posts about transmission failure in this forum. So my questions are:

Is the transmission failure as common in the W140s as it is W202 C43 or is it more reliable and durable on the S-class? What's the difference?

Is this the same transmission found in a 2000MY C280? If not, does anyone know that specific tranny code?

oldsinner111

There were failures when factory said it was lubed for life.Then they changed their minds and changed fluid and filter.
This is all I have seen.

nathandimond

So if the trans fluid hasn't been changed in 100k miles, how long can I expect it to last before it fails?

Would most W140 owners have known to have it serviced regularly?

oldsinner111

I saw problems on different forums at 120,000 to 160,000

MOREN19241

THEY ALL HAVE THE SAME 7.226 TRANSMISSION.THEY PRETTY MUCH EXPLODE INTERNALLY!!

Benzonline

This is correct and I have both a C43 and a W140 with the 722.6. Its all about fluid, fluid, fluid. From what I hear the C43 does have a higher failure rate, but if you find one of these rare commodities, and it shifts perfect I wouldnt hesitate. FUN CAR!