my 99 ML320 has started shifting irratically and will not climb over 3500 RPM's. While driving earlier Check engine light on and begins to flash. will rev in neutral but only to the 3000-3500 mark. At highway speeds, mash the gas and shifts oddly and will not accelerate like normal. What could be the cause? Planning to get codes tomorrow AM. ALSO, wht is an acceptable tranny fluid other than the MB stuff. My dealer is not very easy to get to.

Thanks to anyone that can help here.

The flashing CEL means you've got cylinder(s) mis-firing. The secondary igniton could be to blame, or you could have a clogged catalytic converter, faulty MAF sensor, fuel contamination, etc..... Check the fault codes and post the results. If you can, check the self-adaptation data as well.

Looks like faulty gas was the problem. At least it was an easy fix. Running great again but Still getting a code...Fuel Rail malfunction. I believe this is MAF sensor. Correct? Can these be cleaned using synthetic throttle bottle cleaner? I have tried but not working. Also, can i use other then MB tranny fluid?

Thanks for the help here.

Do you mean fuel trim malfunction? If you've got codes P0170/173 then yes, the MAF sensor could be the problem. Don't run out and buy a new one just yet, though. The fuel contamination problem may have had something to do with it. If you can, re-set the adaptation data and drive it normally. If the MAF sensor is bad, it won't be long before the CEL is back on.

Regarding the ATF, I checked WIS and found that Shell ATF 3403-M 115, and Shell ATF 3353 are both approved for use by MB. The latter will also work in the 722.9 seven speed transmission.

By re-set adaptation data, i assume you mean reset codes using OBD-II scanner?

Yes, when you reset the codes the adaptation values are reset to 0.

__________________
Lenny

There are only three sports: bullfighting, motor racing and mountaineering; all the rest are merely games. --Ernest Hemingway

'10 GL550/'04 BMW 545/'99 BMW 323/'98 ML320/'87 VW GTI (race)

Can't seem to locate the Shell products listed above. Are there other approved tranny fluids? My dealer is not very close. Also, my local parts shop has a fluid that says it is for use in MB printed on back of bottle, Would that mean ALL MB including my ML?

Thanks!

The Shell products were the only alternatives listed. The people at your local parts shop would be able to find out if their product will work in your ML. They might have to do some research though. Why don't you ask a local repair shop to order some OE stuff from the dealer and have it delivered? It's worth a try.

When I needed fluid I got it at The Benz Bin. Fastlane has it too. Rather than taking a chance, have the genuine stuff shipped right to your door.

__________________
Lenny

There are only three sports: bullfighting, motor racing and mountaineering; all the rest are merely games. --Ernest Hemingway

'10 GL550/'04 BMW 545/'99 BMW 323/'98 ML320/'87 VW GTI (race)