SLK/R170: Automatic Transmission Fluid Leak
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2021
Posts: 9
Likes: 1
SLK 230
Automatic Transmission Fluid Leak
It is very difficult for me to get underneath my R170 (various reasons) but recently I have noticed a few drops of automatic transmission fluid on the driveway. Being in the Philippines, parts are not eay to get and need to be ordered in advance. My mechanic is 4 hours away so before I take the car to him, can anyone tell me what the most likely cause could be? I understand that this is not a very scientific approach but if there are common problems I can get him to order parts in advance as they can take several weeks to arrive, espeially during the pandemic and we are in the rebuilding phase of Typhoon Odette, ehich adds to delays. Any help would be greatly appreiated.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,187
Likes: 239
From: Santa Clara, Ca
2003 SL55 / 2002 SLK32
Agreed that a good inspection is in order
but if you are looking for something worth ordering in advance, I would suggest getting a replacement pilot bushing (2035400253). The pilot bushing (oddly named) is the seal assembly for the electrical connector that plugs into the transmission. Its normal failure mode (and they ALL fail sooner or later) is that oil seeps past it and "wicks" through the wiring up to (and eventually, into) the TCU. Sometimes they leak externally as well, so this could be your source, but even if it isn't not your source, it needs to be replaced sooner or later (I would replace it every 60,000 miles or less, regardless of condition). Not expensive either at $8 to $25 depending where you shop.
HTH,
Chris
but if you are looking for something worth ordering in advance, I would suggest getting a replacement pilot bushing (2035400253). The pilot bushing (oddly named) is the seal assembly for the electrical connector that plugs into the transmission. Its normal failure mode (and they ALL fail sooner or later) is that oil seeps past it and "wicks" through the wiring up to (and eventually, into) the TCU. Sometimes they leak externally as well, so this could be your source, but even if it isn't not your source, it needs to be replaced sooner or later (I would replace it every 60,000 miles or less, regardless of condition). Not expensive either at $8 to $25 depending where you shop.
HTH,
Chris
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 64
Likes: 6
From: Northeast Pa
2001 SLK 2017 Chevy Bolt, 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
These auto transmissions do leak from the pan gasket or the control wire inlet plug. First thing I would do is lift the car high enough on one side for you to safely get under it for a look.
Take a 10mm socket with you because you might want to snug the pan bolts then wipe down the whole pan then take a good look.
Or you can post a pic of the transmission before you wipe anything down then I can give you an idea where its leaking.
Take a 10mm socket with you because you might want to snug the pan bolts then wipe down the whole pan then take a good look.
Or you can post a pic of the transmission before you wipe anything down then I can give you an idea where its leaking.
