Pitts Pilot
Active Member
I have just had a very informative talk with a Mercedes specialist transmission firm called DATSC (01446 327007) in Cardiff regarding the 722.9 G-Tronic gearbox.
I explained that the gearbox on my car is very jerky when cold and it 'thumps' twice before engaging a gear to pull off and then lurches forward almost giving me whiplash. However, once the oil temperature has reached 90*C it smooths out and all is normal.
I also mentioned that I have had false neutrals on startup that can only be remedied by switching the car off and restarting it (sometimes up to 4 times).
Before phoning them I had done some research and was pleased to hear that they knew all about the current law suit between Mercedes and Siemens who build the electronic control unit and solenoids for the Control Module of the gearbox.
They confirmed that 'In Their Opinion' Mercedes were keeping a tight lid on this problem as it was a fault not uncommon on the 722 boxes and obviously a recall would cost them millions.
They added that Mercedes have made the purchasing of new solenoids a very paperwork intensive job requiring diagnostic printouts and other evidence before they would entertain releasing a replacement part.
From their perspective, they are of the opinion that MB want to shut out independent garages and keep it the domain of MB dealerships, so as to keep the lid on what is a genuine problem with the boxes.
I appreciate that such a view is biased, but I've only been able to find a company in California who will provide me with a refurbished Control Module. So I am inclined to believe them that independents are not being allowed to purchase spare parts for the module lest the problem become common knowledge.
I am not a 'Conspiracy theorist', but I do now believe that MB are involved in a cover-up.
Strong words I know, but DATSC tell me that I am one of numerous owners they have spoken to that are having the same problems, and that they firmly believe there is a problem with the electronics in the 722 transmissions that MB is categorically denying.
I explained that I had been fogged off by two MB dealerships saying there was nothing wrong with the transmission. Meanwhile I continue to kangaroo down the street each morning....
So what do I, and many others on this Forum, do about our troublesome 722 gearboxes?
Two ways forward suggest themselves.
First Trading Standards could be asked to look at the issue.
Second, solicitors could be appointed.
Both courses of action would need evidence of a factual type, ie. Star machine error codes. Video evidence, etc.
I was presented with a Star read-out by MB Basingstoke. It showed no errors with the transmission. Of course the cynical amongst us could argue that the codes were erased and the read-out subsequently reprinted. Maybe?
The involvement of solicitors would obviously involve costs that many would be reluctant to fund. If folk want to go down this route, then I am with you and suggest we simply share, or split the costs. I am thinking of one or two solicitors letters, no more.
I suspect that getting either Trading Standards or solicitors involved, particularly when several members are behind the action, would get MB to sit up and take notice?
So there you have it. Your gearbox problems are NOT a figment of your imagination. They are a real problem caused by an inherent problem with the Siemens built Control Module.
Shall we try and rattle MB's cage and get our transmissions repaired?
Obviously, comments and ideas are always welcome
PM me if you don't want to express views publicly.
Cheers,
Robert
I explained that the gearbox on my car is very jerky when cold and it 'thumps' twice before engaging a gear to pull off and then lurches forward almost giving me whiplash. However, once the oil temperature has reached 90*C it smooths out and all is normal.
I also mentioned that I have had false neutrals on startup that can only be remedied by switching the car off and restarting it (sometimes up to 4 times).
Before phoning them I had done some research and was pleased to hear that they knew all about the current law suit between Mercedes and Siemens who build the electronic control unit and solenoids for the Control Module of the gearbox.
They confirmed that 'In Their Opinion' Mercedes were keeping a tight lid on this problem as it was a fault not uncommon on the 722 boxes and obviously a recall would cost them millions.
They added that Mercedes have made the purchasing of new solenoids a very paperwork intensive job requiring diagnostic printouts and other evidence before they would entertain releasing a replacement part.
From their perspective, they are of the opinion that MB want to shut out independent garages and keep it the domain of MB dealerships, so as to keep the lid on what is a genuine problem with the boxes.
I appreciate that such a view is biased, but I've only been able to find a company in California who will provide me with a refurbished Control Module. So I am inclined to believe them that independents are not being allowed to purchase spare parts for the module lest the problem become common knowledge.
I am not a 'Conspiracy theorist', but I do now believe that MB are involved in a cover-up.
Strong words I know, but DATSC tell me that I am one of numerous owners they have spoken to that are having the same problems, and that they firmly believe there is a problem with the electronics in the 722 transmissions that MB is categorically denying.
I explained that I had been fogged off by two MB dealerships saying there was nothing wrong with the transmission. Meanwhile I continue to kangaroo down the street each morning....
So what do I, and many others on this Forum, do about our troublesome 722 gearboxes?
Two ways forward suggest themselves.
First Trading Standards could be asked to look at the issue.
Second, solicitors could be appointed.
Both courses of action would need evidence of a factual type, ie. Star machine error codes. Video evidence, etc.
I was presented with a Star read-out by MB Basingstoke. It showed no errors with the transmission. Of course the cynical amongst us could argue that the codes were erased and the read-out subsequently reprinted. Maybe?
The involvement of solicitors would obviously involve costs that many would be reluctant to fund. If folk want to go down this route, then I am with you and suggest we simply share, or split the costs. I am thinking of one or two solicitors letters, no more.
I suspect that getting either Trading Standards or solicitors involved, particularly when several members are behind the action, would get MB to sit up and take notice?
So there you have it. Your gearbox problems are NOT a figment of your imagination. They are a real problem caused by an inherent problem with the Siemens built Control Module.
Shall we try and rattle MB's cage and get our transmissions repaired?
Obviously, comments and ideas are always welcome
PM me if you don't want to express views publicly.
Cheers,
Robert
