What is the difference between the S and W selector switch in C240 gearbox
Thanks

 

The "S" stands for summer or sport--take your pick. Since the gearbox is driver adaptive it "remembers" your driving style and adjusts the automatic shifting to your style. In reality, it picks one of several pre-mapped shift sequences (6 or 7 programs) and uses it on an ongoing basis. If you change your style or someone else shares the driving the program will change accordingly. It won't change instantly but will "adapt" over time. It always starts in first gear.
The "W" stands for winter mode. It always starts in second gear to help in snowy / slippery conditions or lack of traction situations. It is not driver adaptive and only uses one program for all situations and all driving styles.
While I believe you can change on the fly I suggest you only change when fully stopped. It doesn't matter if you use "W" in summer or vice versa.

 

Thanks gilgorm
Your advice is very useful to me
Best Regards

 

Good points gil.

...the program in winter mode shifts gear up at lower rpm to minimize wheel spin.

...you can switch from S to W or, W to S as many times as you want while you are driving. the computer is not going to recognize your mood swing. no damage will be done.

***the computer reads the S or W mode only when car is in PARK***

 

I drive a 1999 C280, and the S/W is accepted even when I flick the switch while driving.

 

No, sir. Absolutely not.

The computer reads that S/W input ONLY while the car is in PARK.


Added later:
Only ignorant fools flip that switch while driving and believe that it works.

 

Well, I've tried it again and it definately change the shiftpoints - even if flick it while driving. Whether its a good idea, is debateable.

So don't make a statement like "No, sir. Absolutely not", unless you're 100% sure (i.e. tried it on a late model w202)