RUSTED TRANSMISSION AT 26K MILES! HELP!

[braxpt]

1.5 Months ago I purchased an 03' CLK500 with 24K miles from a Private Party Individual, Had a PPI (Pre-Purchase Inspection) from Penkse Mercedes in California when I bought the car. They said the car was in excellent condition and passed all checks with flying colors.

Two days ago and two thousand miles later, I took my new car in to have it checked out for a Transmission Problem. My dealer let me know today that there was Rust & Corrosion inside the gears, transmission case, transmission pan, gear box and valve body. The shifter plate was also busted. He said it looks like the transmission it self had been submerged in water, but from the exterior it didn't look like a flood car, although they haven't been able to check the rest of the car.

He also said it looked like the trans fluid may have been changed to try and mask the problem. I am looking for help or any ideas on how this may have been cause and if I have any recourse against Carfax or Penkse for the Check and PPI. And also how does this happen to a car with this low of miles? Your help is greatly appreciated.

[unitfreebie]

Search the forum for defective radiator or transmission oil cooler allowing coolant to get into tranny...

Also there is a TSB about coolant in the transmission... check with Member Konigstiger on this forum.

Good Luck...