Trans won't go into drive

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11-06-2006, 01:35 AM

WB9AXO

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Trans won't go into drive

When the temp goes below 50F, my '98 SLK230 doesn't want to go into drive. It goes into 1st but won't upshift. I can still shift manually between 1 2 & 3 but not 4 or D. Sometimes after 20-30 minutes it starts working correctly. So far suggestions have included the 'transmission speed sensor' and/or trans fluid flush. I haven't taken it to the dealer yet but I'll have to in the next few weeks as it'll be winter soon. Any thoughts?

11-06-2006, 07:16 AM

snanceki

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RE: Trans won't go into drive

What does the gearbox DTC's state?
WILD guess....Engine temp sensor?
Upshifts are discouraged until engine warm for emmission reasons. Does you IP read correctly?
Stuart

11-06-2006, 11:37 AM

WB9AXO

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RE: Trans won't go into drive

Quote:

What does the gearbox DTC's state?
WILD guess....Engine temp sensor?
Upshifts are discouraged until engine warm for emmission reasons. Does you IP read correctly?

Thanks for your reply Stuart.
I don't have access to SW that will read trans codes. Dealer wants $90 just to do that.
Problem seems to be related to OAT rather than engine temp, but that's just a guess.
I don't know what you mean regarding my IP.
I'm aware of delayed upshifts, but this is complete lack of shifting - up or down.
Example: I manually shift into 3rd at 30mph and then put the selector in D. Trans stays in 3rd. I stop at a light. Trans doesn't downshift. When I pull away, trans is still in 3rd.

11-06-2006, 01:30 PM

snanceki

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RE: Trans won't go into drive

IP = Instrument Pack. I was asking if the engine temp gauge reads the correct (sort of) temp.

90USD for reading the EMS codes is a bit steep. Most garages should be able to do this in about 5 mins although the STAR diagnostics system does take somewhat longer to set up. Here in the UK MB dealers charge 25GBP if they don't do it for free as a goodwill gesture.

Will think a bit more about this in the next 24hrs.

I assume you have checked the trans oil level. Unfortunately this is also a dealer job.

Stuart

11-06-2006, 02:31 PM

WB9AXO

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RE: Trans won't go into drive

Quote:

ORIGINAL: snanceki

IP = Instrument Pack. I was asking if the engine temp gauge reads the correct (sort of) temp.

90USD for reading the EMS codes is a bit steep. Most garages should be able to do this in about 5 mins although the STAR diagnostics system does take somewhat longer to set up. Here in the UK MB dealers charge 25GBP if they don't do it for free as a goodwill gesture.

Will think a bit more about this in the next 24hrs.

I assume you have checked the trans oil level. Unfortunately this is also a dealer job.

Stuart

Yes, the temp gauge appears to be correct - about 80C with occasional rise to 90C.
Unfortunately the local (Indianapolis) dealer is one of more expensive in the US. That's what I'm trying to avoid.
Without a trans dipstick, I don't know how to check fluid level although this does seem like a potential cause.
Thanks again for taking the time to ponder.

Cheers,
Chris

12-01-2006, 08:57 PM

WB9AXO

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RE: Trans won't go into drive

Took it to the dealer. They diagnosed it as "Shifter internal electrically faulty"
They replaced the shifter mechanism.
Part# 129 260 4598. Parts = $430. Labor = $285 (3 hrs)

Problem resolved.