Gearbox Kickdown Problem

[Staz]

Hello MBClub UK,

I've recently been given by my father-in-law a C230 Kompressor. The car is in really good condition and has covered 140k with a full Mercedes-Benz service history, but — and there's always a but — the kickdown on the automatic gearbox doesn't work (this is the reason he gave me the car!).

I can feel the switch when I press down on the accelerator, but nothing happens. I really want to keep the car as it drives beautifully - it's smooth and solid and has no nasty knocks, bangs or rattles, however, I would really want to solve this lack of kickdown issue as soon as possible.

If anyone has had this problem, or perhaps knows what could be causing it, then I would love to hear from you.

Kindest regards,

Staz

 

[daggyboy]

kickdown problems

Hi. Had same prob. Would work if you stood on the florr, but gentle stab of foot would not make it kickdown. If the car is pre-1999 it will have mechanical throttle linkage. This needs to be reset properly (2 man job). Had to do this on mine. Hope this helps.

 

[OwenE280]

Is the oil level correct and is the fluid recent?

 

[bennesspipers]

Meanwhile you can just use the auto gear lever instead, i actually prefer to use that method.

 

[crankiejohn]

i agree with bennesspipers its much better to use the stick and keep control of the revs.

 

[chrisbooley]

Hello MBClub UK,

I've recently been given by my father-in-law a C230 Kompressor. The car is in really good condition and has covered 140k with a full Mercedes-Benz service history, but — and there's always a but — the kickdown on the automatic gearbox doesn't work (this is the reason he gave me the car!).

I can feel the switch when I press down on the accelerator, but nothing happens. I really want to keep the car as it drives beautifully - it's smooth and solid and has no nasty knocks, bangs or rattles, however, I would really want to solve this lack of kickdown issue as soon as possible.

If anyone has had this problem, or perhaps knows what could be causing it, then I would love to hear from you.

Kindest regards,

Staz

As far as im awake there are two problems which can cause failiure of the kickdown, one is a faulty mass airflow sensor and second is low Automatic Transmission fluid. I have a small issue with the kickdown on mine too, it works intermittantly, so im going to have me transmission fluid replaced altogether and check the Mass Airflow sensor, hop eyou get it sorted.