I have a 2000 e320 with 45,000 miles I got a year ago.I noticed when I first got it a little trans fluid, maybe a shotglass worth, on my garage floor but wasn't sure if it was from the mercedes. It has maybe very slight delayed engagement but did not leak for a year. I noticed last week that recently more fluid leaked on the floor although there are no warning lights or anything. I don't know much about this so excuse the stupid question, but if it leaked why would it not leak for a year and then when it has leaked it is when it hasn't been driven, not when it's hot. I will not drive it because I dont want to damage the trans. I live in the Naperville/aurora area and really don't want to bring it to the dealer because of finances ,is there any one in the Chicago area that can look at this that is experienced? I do not notice any grinding etc...

 

Hi Mike -

Your tranny holds about 8l or 2 gals of fluid so a few drops won't put it at any risk of immediate failure. But since failure is expensive (about $3K-$6K) I suggest you get it checked out. One common problem is a leak from an electrical connection. The necessary part and o-rings are only a few dollars. I don't know of any indies local to you but there are others out here from the Chicago area. If you don't get any feedback here on a Chicago mechanic, try posting on the W210 forum on benzworld.org.

Also, on that site in the DIY 'stickies' there is a thread on the repair I mentioned above. Good to read since even if you have the work done it's good to be informed when talking to the mechanic. Good luck.