Problem with the auto transmission ml320. Please help
 

Hi,

I am having problems with my 98 ML320. It has 110k miles. Two months ago I changed the transmission fluid and the filter. Didn't see any pieces inside the pan. Week ago the transmission didn't want to switch from 1-st to second gear. I stopped the car, put it back to neutral, turned the engine off then turned the engine on, put it to drive and it switched to second gear and up.
Since then the car started to do this more often. I can say that it's doing it every day. Once it switches from first to second the car is shifting fine, it shifts very smoothly from first to fourth gear and back while the engine is working. Once I turn the engine off and start it again I am having trouble with the initial shifting from first to second. If I am lucky and the transmission shifts the very first time, then it shifts fine. If not I am driving on first gear for a while, then stop turn the engine off, turn it back on and so on... while it initially shifts from first to second.

The fluid level is OK.
I bought the ATF from HBL of Tysons in VA.
Part #A 001 989 21 03 10
The error code is: P0700

Please advice.

Thanks,
Ross

p0700
 

below is a document in a picture that defines the code.

Problem with the auto transmission ml320. Please help
 

Ray,

Thanks for the reply.
I suspect that the problem is the Command valve because when I drive and hit some bumps on the street, and then stop and put it in drive position it switches to higher gear.
Do you know where the location of the Command valve is? My guess is that it is inside the transmission, above the valve body, and is called Electronic-Hydraulic Control Unit. Please let me know! Also, how many of the command valves are there? I think trere are three different kinds of solenoid valves and a total of six: two of the same for the high pressure, three of same solenoid valves, and one more. How do I know which one to change?

Thanks in advance,
Ross

I'm having the same problem, could U please tell me if you fixed it? If yes what was causing the troublem?
Thanks

p0700 is a generic fault code in me telling you to go to the egs and read its codes. you will need to do this to pinpoint whats wrong. may need shift plate in valve body. also on ml's the transfer case control module may be faulty. good luck

With almost all systems on that car & most cars this day & age, YOU need computer scanner info to make diagnosis....Have someone scan the drivetrain systems.

There is a ML forum that I moderate.

P0700 code
 

I had 2 old tires in the front wheels and 2 new at the back wheels. Does these tires difference thread wear may actívate the Yaw Turn Sensor (ESP light)?