My transmission needs to be replaced; local reputable shop at $4.2K; dealer $7 - 8K. Car has 120K miles; can buy a "good used" Mercedes C280 for similar cost of rebuild.

Is this a common problem (transmission) on C280 1997 / 1998?
Is it worth replacing / rebuilding transmission?

 

Underneath the nice black cloth wrapping, the underhood wiring harness for the engine on my 95 C280 was toast. I had to replace it as the insulation material was cracked, exposing bare copper wires. The transmission wiring was similar, but I was able to repair it.
I wonder if your car has the same issue?
I have a spare 97 C280 transmission with approx 75K and a new o.em wiring harness [bought for the 95]. Not 100% sure if they are interchangable?