2005 SL350 (R230) Gearbox Oil Level and Vibration?

[WolfieS]

Hi,

I have a 2005 SL350 where I noted this cold morning that when I put the car (gearbox) into reverse and started to move backwards (slowly), that the gearbox became noisy, sounding as if there was a slight vibration or knocking coming from the transmission. Driving forwards was absolutely fine (normal) and after the car/engine had warmed up, all seemed fine (even in reverse).

In addition, I thought that I would check the gearbox oil level, but then found that I could not find a dipstick or anything in the drivers handbook to suggest how to check/ensure the correct gearbox oil level. Is there something I am missing, or is it really not possible to check the gearbox oil level easily?

I have no error messages, but would appreciate some thoughts in case my gearbox is showing the first signs of needing attention. I'm too far away from an MB garage for diagnostics and, besides, the solution may be straight forward.

Regards

Wolfie Souter
Westbury, Wiltshire, UK

 

[WolfieS]

... my vibration would not seem to be linked to speed, but engine rpm ... why am I only experiencing vibration when I put the car/gearbox into reverse when the engine is cold?

I would still appreciate any ideas if anybody has experienced these symptoms before?

 

[BlackC55]

Could it be just worn engine mounts?

 

[joesoap]

I think Blackc55 could be on right track: I had a similar issue with a bmw 530d touring,
ran fine but when put into reverse started making banging noises and a jolt vibration felt through seat and body.
Turned out to be a goosed engine mount on passenger side, and engine/trans rotation was making it lift when in reverse.

 

[WolfieS]

Thing is ... if the vibration was present each time I put the vehicle into reverse, then I would understand the problem potentially being due to worn mounts. However, I only experience the vibration when the engine is cold (very cold) - once warmed up, no vibration at all.
I was wondering whether the 'issue' could be related to transmission oil level/temperature (cold), but don't know how to check for correct gearbox oil level.

 

[jshodgson]

Thing is ... if the vibration was present each time I put the vehicle into reverse, then I would understand the problem potentially being due to worn mounts. However, I only experience the vibration when the engine is cold (very cold) - once warmed up, no vibration at all.
I was wondering whether the 'issue' could be related to transmission oil level/temperature (cold), but don't know how to check for correct gearbox oil level.

Did you get a solution Tom for this? I have exactly the same symptoms in my E320 2007

 

[jshodgson]

Thing is ... if the vibration was present each time I put the vehicle into reverse, then I would understand the problem potentially being due to worn mounts. However, I only experience the vibration when the engine is cold (very cold) - once warmed up, no vibration at all.
I was wondering whether the 'issue' could be related to transmission oil level/temperature (cold), but don't know how to check for correct gearbox oil level.

Did you get a solution for this? I have exactly the same symptoms in my E320 2007

 

[jshodgson]

My vibration turned out to be the engine mount on the drivers side. Once that was changed it was silky smooth.