Just bought a 1996 e320 inline 6 for my son, love it. It has 95,000 miles, two issues. One, it has a small leak at the back of the head gasket. Going to shop for repair cost, the question is should we consider doing other work to the head, seals, valve job? The other issue is the prema sealed tranny, crazy, it has never been touched. Shifts a little hard into 2nd when cold. Also says in 1st for a while longer in the morning. I have read on the forums this may be nomal. Should I touch the transmission after 95,000 an not service whatsoever?? Any ideas on the cost of a head job ??

 

You needed to inspect it before you bought it.M104 engine is known for the leaky head issue.It will get worse and cost over a grand to repair properly.Inspect the wire harness also if breaking down like flaking paper that will cost a grand also at a shop
diy repairs on both issues at
www.mercedesshop.com
722.4 4speed takes dex3 fluid and yes get it changed.If it had the newer 5speed yiu would also change it.
diy section see m104 head gasket and m104 wire harness
you coulda had a v6
ohlord

 

1996-1997 w210s 6 cylinder in-line engines = head gasket problem. lots of $$$ to fix. Try a 1998-2002, they have the V6 engine. bullet proof. listen to ohlord.