Poor changes when cold

[ched999uk]

I have a w203 2003 C230k coupé and it's too cold and dark out to check which rad I have. I am a bit worried!!!!!!!

Basically I am getting poor up changes when the car is cold. Once its warmed up it seems fine. So I am guessing it needs a fluid change? or is it the start of a glycol contamination problem?
Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[BlackC55]

Check the atf level first then look to see if there are any fault codes and dodgy adaptation data. This can be done with a Star diag machine. A good independet or dealer has them. The fluid should be done every 40k.

Get a test done on the atf too so see if there is any contamination.

 

[ched999uk]

Cheers for the fast response. Looks like a trip to an indie then. Any ideas the sort of ball palk figure for a glycol test, I haven't a clue? I wouldn't know if its £20 or £200.
Thanks

 

[BlackC55]

I pay about £20

 

[crankiejohn]

my 2002 w203 is the same its slow to change up when cold its fine after 1/2 amile. i havent had the auto fluid checked yet but i keep checking the coolant level it hasent lost any in 12 months

 

[kwakdonut]

Maybe just needs a level check although if the ATF hasn't been changed ever/recently that may help too

 

[ched999uk]

I think I will take it to an indie and get the level checked, then a glycol test and then hopefully just a fluid change.
I will have a look at the rad as soon as it's a bit warmer.

Thanks

 

[pdd]

All Mercedes gearboxes hang on to the gears longer when the engine is cold - it is designed to do that to warm the engine faster.

If it is just changing gear later (higher revs) than when warm it is probably how it is meant to be - if it is actually clonking or changing gear very slowly then it may be an issue.

 

[ched999uk]

Cheers for the replies. It is changing at higher revs but as you say that's to warm up faster. When the engine is warm, at a guess about 50degC then the changes are nice and smooth. Under 50degC (engine temp) then the 1st to 2nd and maybe 2nd to 3rd is not slow it's just a bit of a jolt.
Hopefully it's just an fluid and filter change that's needed.
Cheers.

 

[GP801]

Im not sure you actually have a problem. As pdd says they all hold onto the gears and change suddenly when cold. All 3 of ours certainly do and have done from new.