Bought used '02 slk230 (automatic; 30,700 miles) two weeks ago- my first MB. Love the car, but...
Started car in the AM, shifted into R, and felt a jolt. Backed up, shifted into D, and felt another jolt. Started driving but the car was not shifting up. It would not shift, even when I pulled the selector to the "+". I had to pull over, shut off engine, and then restart. All worked great after the restart.

This is the fourth time in two weeks this happened. (Only when engine cold.)

Is this a known problem? Transmission troubles with low mileage?

Appreciate any comments/ideas/advice. Thank you in advance!

 

first thing to do it check fluid level.. there is not a (dipstick) on vehicle, its considered a tool at dealer... mine (dealer) checked mine for free instead of buying the dipstick which is condidered a TOOL... whats tranny fluid level??? tool A.K.A dipstick around 50 american dollars... seals do leak on that trans.....

 

Since the problem "clears" with a reboot it is likely a sensor input into the transmission electronic module out of range.
I don't (currently) have any specific experience on the detail of MB trans problems.
If you get the Engine diagnostic codes read this may indicate a possible cause since the engine and trans work together as a unit and the codes also cover the trans.
Get them read when you check the trans oil level.
Advise engine codes when you have them.
Stuart

 

No computer codes, trans fluid good, and dealer could not recreate the problem.

Had it back a few days and all is good so far. We're a happy new MB owner.

Thanks to all for your help!

Mick

 

I bet the dealership disconnected the battery to reset your computer.

Hey Stuart: Is that enough to reset the trans shift points?

 

Hi Drew,
As I said I know "nothing" (specific) about the trans. Always time to learn however.
If indeed the problem is now clear I have to agree with you that the battery off reset must have done it. But why?
I wouldn't have thought any data settings such as change up speeds etc are in volatile memory.
IF a reset has cured it it still leaves the issues as to what initiated the problem?
Since there were no codes I still favour a faulty sensor somewhere which was being detected by the self diagnosis tests at reboot.
Why has the problem disappeared?
Hmmmm.
Anyway 241split is happy.
Stuart.

 

I was told the the transmission "learns how I drive". Is this true? and is this the system to re-set?

 

Can be reset by removing Neg batt term for at least 30mins (radio code in hand)
Also hot reset by
1. insert key to on
2.Press throttle hard to floof for 5 secs
3, turn key to off
4, release throttle
5. wait 2 mins
6. drive off

Resets throttle body back to default on Auto and Manual
Resets shift points as well on auto,

Will revert back after a while depending on your driving style.

Bazzle

 

Update from the one who started this post...

After a few more days, the engine light came on and so off to the MB dealer we went.

Since many of you kindly replied with suggestions, I wanted to share the actual results.

Here's the story: First, computer found fault code = P2602 (Voltage Supply of Valves Faulty) & battery failed test. Replaced with new battery.

Next, the tech found rear axle seals leaking. Replaced BOTH axle seals and resealed cover.

Now all seems fine. I hope to become a happy MB owner.

Wondering about the cost of repairs? About US$1,200; most of that for labor. We're in the Washington DC area.

Thanks again to those who helped.

 

So one battery and two axel boots= $1200?