It is supposed to be changed at 46k miles with filter. And there is no knowing how long a transmission will last.

 

I just got the call from the dealer you dread.

Failed transmission - Due to 4matic transfer case problem.

I bought a nice November 2009 - W221.II S500 4matic with 78'k km's last November, since I had the car there was a very slight noise coming from the front at certain speeds and mostly when coasting. It was so slight I thought it was the climate fan initially - The forum descriptions lead me to believe it was something like the fuel vapor return pump. Last week it got louder too it to the dealer.

Failed transmission. 7.5K to replace. Two year used car warranty covers 60%.

I have to ask how is it reasonable for a modern MB gearbox to only last 85,000km's

Goodness knows what the failure rate on the AMG 4matics is going to be.

I have a W114 230.6 that's done 250000km's factory compression on the engine still - original gearbox.. Ahh they really don't build them like they used to.

 

This is such a poor design flaw with these cars... the transfer case is considered an "integral" part of the transmission so they do not offer service advise on this part should anything inside fail. BUT.... they do offer parts for it (as mentioned earlier in this thread). I have an '08 S550 4Matic and I have an awful noise coming from what has been determined to be the transfer case... I have been all over the internet investigating and also have been to several private transmission and specific Mercedes repair shops and also to the dealer. I am told that in order to fix this noise (and you should know that my transmission is operating perfectly) they want me to spend $7K on a new unit. Now, I have been wrenching on cars my whole life and I was even determined to pull the tranny and open that transfer case myself (there are a number of internal parts that could go bad... including a sun gear set) but I was told that there is a good chance that I will not be able to get the case back together with the transmission unit. I think this is such poor design and the fact that Mercedes doesn't make this a more serviceable part is preposterous. It seems that my only course of action is to buy a used unit (probably $2 - $3K) and swap it out. Sorry for the rant but this really has me charged up. And for anyone else experiencing the same issue don't waste your time.

 

Plaineman I feel your pain. It's really disappointing engineering.

I have a good relationship with the dealer, I'm going in tomorrow to check out the problem. The transmission is out and apart - They are going to show me the problem - I will take photos and share here.

I'm going to see if they can find some goodwill with Stuttgart for some more discount. Sometimes the close proximity helps. The transmission is out of stock within DE so could take days/weeks/months for a replacement.

I do get the feeling that this is a common problem for them. A four year lifespan on a MB gearbox is terrible. Maybe I should dump the transmission outside the Stuttgart museum on my next trip through. The parking of oldtimers is encouraged outside the entrance - Maybe an example of their more recent engineering would be appreciated.

 

Here is the problem, this part is not available from MB.
The best transmission specialist in the country can't supply or recondition it.

A whole new transmission - Now the good news is that a large % of MB's sold here are 4matic and this is one of the first failures of this part they have seen.

 

So this is a roller bearing that is on one of the gears in the transfer case? Or is it inside the transmission??? What a BS little part to cause the replacement of the whole unit. What did you end up paying the dealer for a new unit installed (if you don't mind me asking). I found a used unit in great shape for $2200 but now finding out that I have to either swap out my valve body/control unit or purchase a new one (est $1600) because of a one time VIN encoding. They sure don't make it easy at all. Thanks for posting pic.

 

How about a 20' X 40' poster of that bearing outside of the Stuttgart Museum... maybe it will open some eyes. I do believe one major issue here is the fact that this is a rare problem. Wouldn't wish it on anyone.

 

That roller baring is from the transfer case, which is part of the main transmission body. However the transfer case part of the transmission does open separately from the main body, The transmission was still in place, the rear transmission case part was removed. Sorry for the poor description I'm attaching two other photos I took at the same time showing where that part went.

I can let you know on Monday when I pick up it up how much it ended up costing. MB paid 50% of the transmission and labor. 60% of the remainder covered by the used car warranty (only 60% cover now its over 80,000kms)
I hope some good will by the dealer too we'll see.

 

If it turns out that they can't help, we can.

New Page 1

 

Interesting - Spoke to the service manager and he confirmed what you state transmission with 4matic has a design problem - The C Class and GLK 4matics see this problem all the time. They have seen it as a common issue in these cars. This is however the first time they have seen it on a s class - And there are many 4matic s classes in common use here. I guess I'm lucky to be the first.

 

Ok, so it looks like the dealer only pulled your transfer case from the vehicle... does that mean they only intend to replace the transfer case. It seems that the bearing in question is the one that the output shaft to the front wheels gets power from (the prop shaft). I knew that this was the issue as all of my noise was coming from there. I am very interested to see how this turns out.

Also, Sun Valley... am I able to just order those parts from you? If I get brave and pull my transfer case only to find that those bearing are shot can I just order them from you, replace and be done with this? Would be a huge help!!!! Thank you.

 

It's not that easy.

There is a design error with the transfer section causing the bearings to starve for oil. Our process involves machining the transmission case as well as the transfer housing.

We would need to pick up the whole transmission assembly for the modification.

 

The 4Matic is in 90% of all the MB here (In NYC area)... and the Showroom on Park Ave sells more cars than just about any dealer anywhere! You would think that this issue was a more common problem. I have been looking into this for quite some time now and other than the shop in Sun Valley no one seems to be dealing with this at all. My guess is that any time it happens while the vehicle is still under warranty the dealer just replaces the transmission and done. Hopefully the newer vehicles have a design change that corrects this issue. Let us know how it all turns out for you. Thanks for your input on this.

 

So, is the problem on 722.9 4-matic C-class vehicles? Or all 4-matic's with 722.6 and 722.9?

Thanks,

Martin

 

We have only seen this problem with the 722.9 transmissions that have a built in power take off.

Separate transfer cases (bolt on) seem to hold up.

 

Good, Thank you..

Martin

 

722.9 Transmission shot!!

Hello does any one know of any trustworthy transmission shops in the MD area that does a good rebuild on this tranny, Stealership wants $9k,
07 s550

 

how can you check to see what version of transmission is associated with a VIN? I am considering buying a 2007 S550 with 70k miles on it (RWD) and am worried that this may be a prevalent problem that I should be worried about. I have the VIN number, just need to know how to check.

EDIT - I actually found the Vin check and I believe its showing the following based on the VIN: Gearbox 722904 01 102413

It looks like I have the 722.9 for this car. My question is how prevalent is this issue and is there any way to get it inspected beforehand to see if it is a problem?

 

I drive an S350, 2007, AT. The transmission is not shifting smoothly. When i pull out, it stalls for about 10 seconds before shifting to gear 2 and then its stuck there. This started nearly 3 weeks ago. Does anyone know what the problem could be?

 

What you describe is called limp mode and is a safety feature to protect your transmission when something goes faulty, you need to have the fault codes read to find out what is causing the transmission to go into limp mode.

 

I wish I had read this thread earlier, (you know... Locking the barn after the hores has been stolen!). I have a '07 S550 and last week I felt a hard shift coming out of the parkig garage at work and then found that the car seemed to be stuck in 1st gear. I limped to my dealer and was told it was the Valve Body + fluids & filter. $1600 repair bill & today I got the car back & it seems like the shift points are off as the car is revving slightly higher, (a little over 2100 RPM's), before shifting. Should this have been covered under the STAR/Verification program if it is a known problem with the Tranny Valve Body? Feels like I'm being ripped off!

 

Take it back to them and have the shift points re set.

 

Took my car in for routine service. The service went well and car was running good. Three days later, the car just stops on me while I was driving, almost like I was out of fuel. I pulled over to the side and shut off the car. I waited a few minutes and restarted the car. It ran fine and I thought everything was okay, for about 3 mins. The car stopped again. This time it would restart, but wouldn't mkve when I pressed the gas pedal. I had the car towed back to the service center, they said only a MB dealer could repair the damage due to TRP. MB dealer said transmission is gone and it will cost 7K to replace. Should I get a second opinion?

2007 S550 120K miles

 

What are my chances in a lawsuit?

2008 ML 350, 86,800 miles. Serviced exclusively between two local MB dealerships that failed to perform transmission service, as required in service manual.

Transmission died without warning - no check engine light, no codes. Symptoms: well documented limp-home-mode, and more recently no reverse. Took it to the dealer, dropped the pan, lots of metal, need replacement.

Wondering if anyone can advise what are my chances for winning a lawsuit against dealerships for negligence and/or MB for producing a piece of junk component that dies on you without warning much sooner than it really should have?

[it is just happening and I am still in the initial shock, but will do whatever it takes to save myself this $8,000!...]

 

I just bought a used 2006 E350. Haven't got to drive it too much before it started having transmission issues. Although, my engine light came on and I got the P2768 - Input/Turbine Speed Sensor 'B' Circuit Intermittent. Cleared out the code and sure enough, 750 miles later, came back on, thought I was out of the woods. NO SUCH LUCK! I immersed myself into this issue, reading every thread every where and then some (you-tube etc.) I too, wanted to sue, but I bought from a private owner although he did say there was absolutely nothing wrong with the car (yeah right), I didn't have big bucks to throw at the problem.

I'm sorry, I am NOT a big fan of the Mercedes Benz service department. They seem to become to complacent and "know it all's" after a certain point. I mean, they don't listen, they don't care and they could give a ratts ass about us, the customer. Especially if we are out of warranty. So I learned EXACTLY what was going on and EXACTLY how to fix the issue for under $600 (well actually about $650).. Mercedes Benz wanted $2000 plus. Just because I drive a MB doesn't mean I have big bucks. I also own a 1997 E320 with 241k and running strong. Had I known about the 2006 and 2007 crappy 722.9 7g transmission I would have NEVER purchased it. So it's my bad, I'm ONLY human and I make mistakes.

I am new here, but I can help if you are interested. I don't think your getting the truth about your car. Yes, desperate times desperate measures, even applies to MB too. So if I can help, as so many here have helped me, please let me know! As for suing, what can it hurt to try if you have the $$$. ESPECIALLY if you bought it from a reputable dealer. Your chances (in my opinion) are very good! But learning how to DIY is even better!

 

Thanks for your kind words, yasky, and yes, I am interested in learning about your case in greater details!

Yep, I have also spent hours reading different (and very helpful!) forums, and watching youtube videos (also a few good ones, including a great series on repairing 722.6 tranny showing similar symptoms), and I have already built a really nice library out of it! Such well educated, now I know what to talk about with my dealer.

I am actually quite handy (but also without big bucks, or just choose not to spend them if don't have to ;-) , and I have already performed many jobs on my car, like oil changes (twice), brake job (pads and rotors), filter changes, towing hitch install, and my most notable: cam plugs replacement - a job I also documented on youtube for those in need:

(lol, 6K visits and 10 likes

Please note that there are only two people who have looked at and serviced my car over the years: MB dealer (between two local shops, now under same ownership - one of them sold the car new to the first owner who then transferred it to me at 16K, and I have owned it since - for well over 70K miles) and myself. In my opinion, the dealer definitely should take a blame for not suggesting I am due transmission service at 39K at any of these visits I paid them: at 50K, 63K, 65K (special service clinic!), and 70K - am I right or wrong?? This is my argument I will fight in court for (hopefully won't have to) that it is my right not to be aware of any particular service due (even though I do have a manual) when I come to a dealer for service, BUT it is THEIR OBLIGATION to point those out to me!

Anyway, moving forward, my research continues - so far I have learned the following:

Last email I received from my dealer:

>> Fault codes we obtained from our diagnostic test equipment are below.
0717 The signal from component Y3/8n1 (Turbine speed sensor (VGS)) is not available. STORED
0718 Component Y3/8n1 (Turbine speed sensor (VGS)) is defective.

Fault codes in the transmission are related to the turbine speed sensor. You had indicated experiencing concerns where the vehicle will go into limp mode, those codes would coincide with the symptom you reported.

We road tested the vehicle and verified that the transmission has an excessive drag in reverse gear, as you had shared. We inspected the transmission fluid and found the fluid to be very dark, consistent with lack of maintenance, not having been changed. We also found excessive metal in pan. If the vehicle did not have evidence of severe drag in gear, and metal in the pan, we would recommend with starting with service and valve body or EHS repair for the fault codes. We are recommending replacement of the transmission and torque converter based on our findings. The quote for that replacement is $7560.00. <<

My response:

>> Thank you for your email. I understand the quote you gave me includes both the parts and labor. I would still prefer to find another way than to replace the entire transmission. Based on my research, speed sensor failure is very common in these transmissions and possibly connected with oil leaking into the conductor plate module. I would prefer to start from the replacement of the conductor plate, new oil, new filter and gasket. Repair kits for 722.9 transmission control module conductor plate sell for $269, genuine transmission oil, filter and gasket from MB can be purchased from MB of Annapolis for $119.

Regarding metal particles found in the pan, perhaps transmission rebuilt is still an option. I found complete rebuilt kits online selling for about $500. I understand the warranty would be shorter, but the cost should be significantly less. Please, quote such an option for me.

One other option is to buy a used transmission, which can be found and shipped to you for about $1,000. They come complete with 90 days warranty. What would be your cost for labor to make such replacement? <<

No answer to that one yet - by the way today is one week since I left them my car - good thing they gave me a loaner...

In the meantime I have also learned that my local in-town mechanic is licensed/endorsed by Jasper to take on transmission replacement job. I asked him and he quoted 7 hours of labor, including conductor plate replacement or reprogram - whichever works better - does not sound so bad, does it?

So now I can get back to my MB dealer and ask the same question: if I supply them with a used tranny, would they switch it for me for 7 hrs of labor? And what would it take to rebuild my own using the $500 kit?

Will keep you guys posted...

 

Wow, I feel ya brother! What to do, what to do? The ONLY thing I would question and want to see, is what they consider excessive metal shavings in the trans... What is "a lot"? Have you seen this with your own eyes? The turbine speed sensor (believe it or not) is a very easy fix. Send it to Module Repair Pros Inc. in Van Nuys Ca. Mine is sitting there as we speak being repaired (rebuilt). Getting a new one, what a pain, and getting a used one? I wonder, if you get a used transmission will you be able to send the old TCM to Van Nuys and have it placed back into the new-used trans? I bought a Mercedes Benz Filter, gasket, Fill tube, bolts and drain plug ring for $52, 236.14 ATF About $70 (won't say what kind, because I don't want to start a war here...lol) $269.00 for rebuilding the TCM so far, that comes to $391.00 Labor to have Valve body removed, fluid drained and refilled as well as re-install TCM and drain torque converter $244..So far $635.. I'm going to buy all the necessary equipment to do trans service myself, but right now, it's tight..So I'll save myself that $244 in labor ..

My point brother? I was soooo pissed off after I bought this car, I wanted to sue the guy, but after I did my homework $635 is pretty decent (if it all works). When I buy a used car, I ALWAYS factor in a min of $1000 for unforeseen expenses, so I'm okay. I don't feel so bad (yet)..lol But then again, like you (and I don't have a loaner) it's been almost two weeks!!! But your circumstances are different, you are under warranty ( I think from what I've read) but from the dealership you purchased the car through, there should be some recourse to either have them FIX it, get your $$$ back or another car. I love MB, great cars, but these 2006 and 2007's have some issues. If we can get em fixed at low cost, just might be worth it... $7,000 plus? That's just not right, and very unfair... Go in and rock someones world! That's just ridiculous... I seriously doubt, a Mercedes Benz Dealership, will even consider doing the work.. Your ideas are terrific, but they won't think so. Can't wait to hear what happens...Like ya said brother, keep us posted and I'll keep ya posted on mine! Best of luck to you...

 

No warranty, I'm at 86,800 miles... Yest, they sent me 2 pictures, one showing black fluid being supposedly my tranny oil, the other some metal in the pan - not too much for my naked eye, but who am I to judge! Don't know how to attach pictures in here so will share this part of my story when the entire "article" is ready to be posted on my blog. Unless, of course, MB comes forward and helps me out as they should.

No news today to report on, sent them another email reminder, but they are silent...

 

Got my TCM back from Van Nuys (Module Repair Pro Inc.) and VIOLA! No more problems! Runs great, no more engine codes and lights, smooth quiet shifting and all for less that $650.00...Mercedes Dealership wanted $3000.00... My cost breakdown is listed 2 threads down.

I am a very happy camper... SO FAR... lol.. Didn't even have the car up and running for a week and my fuel pump hit the skids and needs to be replaced. I'll do myself for $100 in parts... Good news is that the transmission control module ONLY cost $269.00 to repair. Has a LIFETIME warranty!

Next time (if there is one), I do myself and save $244.00, so it would have only cost me about $375.00 DIY is the ONLY way to go. That or be ripped off... The choice is clear...

 

Hey yasky, I'm so happy it worked for you! Proves that a DIY fix is possible (and on a budget!), and a total replacement of the entire transmission and torque converter a simple rip off, as offered by MB dealership.

As promised here is an update on where I am:

I had a few more email exchanges with MB dealership before I finally picked up my car:


>> If you provide a transmission and torque converter our labor to install your is $2035.00 for labor and tax, plus fluids that we might need, and hardware if it was not provided by your supplier. Warranty on that would have to come from the provider.

To quote the rebuild we would have to remove and disassemble it to see what clutch packs, gears, or bands would require replacement. It’s been our experience that this is a bigger cost than obtaining a rebuilt replacement transmission from the factory. To remove and disassemble to provide you with a quote is $2250.00- the warranty on the rebuild would be 12 months on whatever internal components are replaced. The torque converter will still require replacement.

(...)

We have worked directly with our factory rep. Between MBUSA and our store, we can offer a 20% discount off the repairs. If you would like us to replace the transmission and torque converter the discounted price would be $6048.00 this includes, parts, labor, and tax.

It will carry a warranty of 2 years, 24,000 miles. <<

I refused those offers finding MB guilty of negligence of not providing required service on time, during my four visits at 53,000, 63,000, 65,000 and 70,000 miles.

I offered to pay $1,500 and asked them to cover the remaining, but they refused.

I went to pick up my car, and... found it with battery drained, unable to drive back home! After my 2 hours trip in rush hour traffic, their excuse was that the car was sitting in the cold for too long - are you kidding me!!

I went back home in the loaner, they plugged my car into a charger, and I repeated the trip the next day.

Now the car is in my garage.

The latest: I have decided to take a hit and sell the car as is. I put it on ebay, with full disclosure, and it sold over the weekend (not to spam this thread, but you can view my listing here: Mercedes Benz M Class ML350 4MATIC 4DR 3 5L | eBay). I have not received the money yet, so consider it pending.

I took approximately $3,000 hit comparing to if I was to sell the car with working transmission.

My next step will be to fight for this $3,000 in court. Just to make a case! I will represent myself, so no need for a lawyer, and the only expense is $90 to file a case in a small claim court. You bet I will do it! $3,000 actually means money to me.

Cheers.

PS. I would actually love to own another Benz in the future - they are great cars - but I'm not a turtle - what should I do?

 

Bummer my friend. I hate to see you have to sell, especially for so cheap, but I think that's why I got my 2006 E350 so cheap. Same thing must have happened to the previous owner, he just got a case of the "F" its! lol..

But still for less than $650-$700 to do (and that includes some shop) pulling out the TCM/Valve-Body, re-installing it and then refilling with new tranny fluid? Then sell her and get top dollar...But I understand your frustration my brother. If for whatever reason sale doesn't go through, get in touch with me and I will help anyway I can!

My 97 E320 (241K miles) has NEVER had such expensive issues! If you can find one of those with low miles and in mint condition, I would recommend it. They are beautiful, tons of room inside, great on gas and handle like a dream! Probably can get a NICE one for under 3k.. Again, put aside $1000 for any unseen repairs... You can't go wrong..