wojo

Hey guys,
just got the SLK280 (automatic) yesterday, and today when we were driving around i noticed when we are coming to the stop sign and slowing down, i think when the transmission is reducing gears from 2nd to 1st it sort of shakes the car, it's annoying. is this normal?

we dont remember if it was this way the first day and during test drive perhaps because of all of the excitment so i dont know if it's supposed to be this way or what?

should i take it back to the service center and have them look at it or just let it be?

thanks...

-1-

Sorry, I'm a do-it-yourself (manual transmission) kind of guy. Congratulations on the new SLK, and welcome to the forums. Someone here will be able to answer your question. Enjoy!

Duo-Art

I don't know about shaking the car but when my automatic trans shifts from 2nd to 1st, it is quite abrupt.

Crosis

The shift from 1st to 2nd is a bit harsh as 1st is a steep gear. I have never felt a shake but you know its downshifting. Your question tells me that you are driving it in S mode. From what I understand that if you are still in break-in time, you should be in C mode. Not the answer to your question but an observation.

Ynot

I also drive a manual but there's alot of discussion about the abrupt change to low gear causing a little jerk so I assume it's normal.

wojo

im sorry, its not like the car shakes lol. its more like you guys describe, sort of short jerking feeling.

nobody told me to drive on C mode at the begining, if so whats the point and for how long?

thanks for your answers

Duo-Art

Wojo, When you drive in the C mode, the car starts in 2nd gear rather than first and the up and down shifts are more gentle. The C mode is great for stop and go traffic and for accelerating on slippery roads such as snow.

Crosis

My understanding is that C mode is more gentle on the engine in those break-in miles and is better for properly seating your piston rings. As far as the miles... I dont know. Many say 500 miles is a break-in period and others say up to 3000. Anyone have a clue?

Ynot

The owner manual says the first thousand mile is the break-in period.

Vodil

I believe this is a known problem for which there is a fix. Your dealer has a technical bulliten on how to fix it. It will, BTW, get better over time anyway as the tranny "learns" to be less aggressive.

RoadkingHI

C mode for break in. 1000 miles.
Down shift is quick but I noticed after all the oils warm up it is less noticable. I had to get used to the quick start in S mode... few time almost ate the guy in front! Love it!