CLK auto 'box

[kit_boy]

Hello all.

Have been an avid reader of the forum for sometime but now have a problem which I hope someone can offer me advice on.

I have a 2001 W208 CLK 320 cabriolet. The gearbox has gone into limp mode several times (reset by switching engine off and restarting). My local merc specialist initially read the codes and replaced the brake light switch and the gearbox wiring plug as this was leaking fluid to see if this fixed the problem. (No fluid has travelled back to the ECU luckily).

The 'box went into limp home the next day and this time would not reset by switching off engine. The specialist read the codes again and discussed the problem with Mercedes who have said it is a common fault and mercedes now sell and exchange modified switching pack and valve body. Merc specialistare quoting for £450 plus vat, sundries and fittng for this pack, total £850-£1000, but no guarantees this will remedy the problem. The other option is a recon box for £2500....

Other members experiences with this fault suggest there could be less costly remedies such as replacing the battery or a new electronic plate.

I suppose I am looking for suggesions about other things I should consider before spending £1000 to £2500 on repairing or replacing the gearbox on a low mileage, well maintained and otherwise reliable car.

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[BlackC55]

The valve body is fairly common part of the gearbox to go wrong for your type of issues.

You can never be 100% sure that a valve body will cure it. How about a second hand gearbox?

A recon unit from MB is about £1500. I suggest you shop around.

 

[kit_boy]

Thanks BlackC55, I will have a look at second hand. Just wanted to make sure there was nothing simple that has not been considered yet. I'm always the optimist....

 

[frog1520]

What exactly is a valve body?? Thanks..

 

[jaymanek]

yes im sure you will find a second hand box for unfer 1K... if not then recon your existing one...

 

[Bazzle]

I had this happen with a faulty maf once.

Bazzle

 

[kit_boy]

Quick Update - had codes reset and after it happened again I had codes re-read and a second opinion from another garage who diagnosed a new conductor plate, total £513 - a lot more reasonable.

It sort of knocked my confidence in the car so its now been traded in for an SL500....

 

[jaymanek]

it probably was the plate, this was a common issue too... a lot of that quote is removing the bottom part of the gearbox to get to the plate..