W203 Auto Gearbox Problem?

[HedleyA]

Hello all, you input would be much appreciated on this one.


My 2002 W203 developed a problem that may actually have been two problems.


1/ When accelerating hard it would reach 40mph and not change up past 3rd, i.e. go into limp home mode. Turning off and restarting put it back into normal mode.


2/ Other times, accelerating hard from a standing start, it would get to 40 and skip into neutral (revving up and down ok but no drive to the wheels). When I coasted down to 10mph it was fine again.


So I got it looked at and they replaced the faulty Trans Electronic Control Plates and refilled the ATF (£400 including diagnostics). The old AFT was in good condition but a little over filled.


Since the repair I can accelerate hard in a straight line and never get either of the problems.


But when I accelerate hard on a bend (usually to the right and uphill) it consistently goes into limp home mode. If I accelerate slowly, no problem.


Any ideas?


Many thanks in advance, HedleyA

 

[BlackC55]

By limp mode do you mean it's stays in 2nd gear? Or the engine has lack of power?

 

[HedleyA]

Hi, it stays in 2nd gear. Any ideas?

 

[BlackC55]

The ATF level could be a little low

 

[HedleyA]

I thought that too. When I got it replaced (see first post) it was over-full and they re-filled it to the recommended level.

I am starting to wonder if it could be something electrical, like a loose connection.

 

[BlackC55]

Maybe. It needs to go on a Star again and the level checked with the proper dipstick.

 

[GH421]

common fault with W203's. I had the same problem. I can't remember what the exact fault is but I do remember taking my mechanics advice rather then employ his services as it would amount to a very large bill.

He said don't drive it hard ..............no problems ever since.

 

[HedleyA]

Many thanks Black55.

Many thanks GH421, I think I will follow the same advice.

 

[Danny DeVito]

Funny but i have a problem with my gearbox when i turn right it seems to be worse too. i thought i was imagining it. I suspect my n/s wheel camber/ alignment/ tire wear is the problem causing my asr ( wheelspin cutback) to kick in. Turning of the asr (maybe yours is esp or something) stops the fault occuring. Maybe you could try something like switch the things off ?

 

[sspeed]

Funny but i have a problem with my gearbox when i turn right it seems to be worse too. i thought i was imagining it. I suspect my n/s wheel camber/ alignment/ tire wear is the problem causing my asr ( wheelspin cutback) to kick in. Turning of the asr (maybe yours is esp or something) stops the fault occuring. Maybe you could try something like switch the things off ?

Well yours definitely sounds like low gearbox fluid level to me..
It sounds like gravity is pulling it away from the pickup point when you go around a corner.

 

[Danny DeVito]

It was 2 ltrs low, but still does it now

 

[Tinkerer]

I would be curious as to where 2 ltrs of ATF went ....??

 

[Danny DeVito]

N/S driveshaft oil seal is leaking. Checked yesterday and it looks like maybe the bearing has slipped out a little maybe 5mm. Hopefullly pushing it back will help. Otherwise i cant make out if the driveshaft pops out as normal ? Anyone know ?