This is a slow and often overlooked cause of engine overheating.

A slipping automatic transmission generates excess friction heat.
The transmission cooler is inside the radiator on most Mercedes.

There is some excess cooling capacity on a perfect vehicle.
As the internal transmission friction progresses from minor through major to critical, it finally exceeds total cooling capacity.


The generic ideal operating temperature for automatic transmission fluid is between 175 and 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can check the general health of your transmission with an infrared thermometer at idle in park after a fifteen minute warmup drive.
Get temperature readings from both transmission cooling lines.



Transmission:
Transmission:

Oh no.... I'm having inexplicable overheating probs, I'll check that right away! Thanks!!

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2002 E430 4matic (212,000km)
2002 ML500 'sport'

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You can use a transmission cooler kit as a diagnostic tool, and/or to reduce engine heat load + extend the transmission life.