SLK230 Transmission.

[refaller]

I have searched the SLK forums, but not a lot of mechanically inclined people from what I have seen. Anyway, my car will about once a week go into limp mode. It is always after a 12 mile highway run and usually at the 5th light I get to. I simply pull into the next parking lot, turn the car off and then on and everything is fine again. I have changed out the fluid and replaced the filter (don't recall this happening before I did that, but I had not had the car long before I did that because the fluid was clearly FF). It also only happens when the outside temp is above 55. My current ideas are: Transmission Control Module (located under the passenger floor board next to the amp) or the transmission conductor plate. Unfortunately, they are expensive and I don't know how to test them. There are no codes being given by the computer either. One time I did get a PO700 which is a gear selector wrong. This is the best mechanical advice forum I know of so do any of you have any ideas?

ref

 

[JHZR2]

I am sure there is a ton of computer information that your car is reporting. Have you pulled down the real diagniostic information? Dont just rely on some random CEL.

 

[threeputtpar]

I'm not at all familiar with your SLK, but for my Audi there are under hood cowl drains that can get clogged from tree debris and that causes rain water to enter the passenger side of the cabin and flood the TCM. It sounds like your TCM is in the same place, so I would check the carpet for dampness. HTH

 

[user52165]

Originally Posted By: JHZR2
I am sure there is a ton of computer information that your car is reporting. Have you pulled down the real diagniostic information? Dont just rely on some random CEL.


+1. This.

I wouldn't go guessing or start parts throwing without doing this. Even a $69 scanner from HF is worthwhile.

 

[JHZR2]

To the OP, I see you are from Norristown. If you dont mind a little drive, I can recommend Stuttgart MB repair at the 206/70 circle in NJ (talk to Wolfgang), and also R&K motors down in Newark DE, talk to (Peter).

 

[Kestas]

My buddy had a 2001 SLK230. Good, reliable, trouble-free car. The only problem he had was with the shifter. I don't remember the details, but the impression I had was that the problem was electronic, and it cost $800 to fix.

Otherwise, I agree with the above posters who recommend you have the car scanned for codes to help find the problem.

If you think the problem is with the electronic modules, the only DIY you can do is to examine the electronic boards for broken solder joints.

 

[refaller]

Thanks for the advice. My reader doesn't give specific codes. I don't mind driving so I might check it out. Not a lot of places like to just do the tests around here. I like turning wrenches. Just finished doing my timing belt so if the can tell me what to replace I will be good to go. It definitely appears that they should be able to get a code from the transmission control module. Thinking of buying another reader, but think it has to be Mercedes specific. Any recommendations on readers.

ref

 

[hattaresguy]

You need to hook the car up to the SDS system, any Mercedes dealer or good shop should have it.

SDS will tell you everything you want to know about your transmission.