[pcaton]

Folks,

My C350 4 matic has an automatic transmission. Of course, It has the technical capability of using a manual shift method (plus or minus signs next to the shifter) but has anyone used it?

I miss using a manual transamission and I think it would be fun with my mercedes.

Thanks for your help!

 

[Musikmann]

I use mine sometimes, almost always to slow down a tad when exiting an interstate.

 

[Kajtek1]

I do it all the time driving in the mountains. Pressing the brakes for several minutes in not only inconvenient, but can lead to brakes overheating and failure.
This is not really recommended in normal driving as leads to more transmission wear out.
Common wisdom says the brakes are way cheaper than transmission.

 

[Musikmann]

Glad you wrote that Kajtek1 because I remembered reading that somewhere (more transmission wear out). It does not feel or sound like the downshifts are hard on the transmission but these are probably harder on it than leaving all the time in D.

 

[Kajtek1]

Digital transmissions live long because of computer program that lowers rpm at gear shifting, but I still remember older transmissions that in city driving needed new clutches every 60k or so miles. Our W124 is quite a change to drive occasionally. You can really feel the clutches slipping on gear change.
Bottom line - use it but don't abuse.

 

[magna steyr 210.282]

It's fun if you want to hot rod it a little. I wouldn't be doing it all the time.

Read the manual and you will find that when you switch driving modes. Selecting certain gears will significantly reduce your speed on steep inclines. It really works well in W mode going down steep mountains. Saves your breaks and the car loves it.

As far as driving it sportingly with S mode, I find that it's quite frustrating and does not do exactly what I want and when I want it unless you turn the ESP off. Even then it has a little hesitation. I'm a better driver than my computer. The ESP makes me want to scream sometimes.

Enjoy it!