I have 1997 C180 4 speed auto 88k. went out today gearshifts smooth as normal. Parked for a couple of hours, on returning the car will not shift up (think its stuck in 1st), I can still select reverse. Can find no fluid leak. suspect it may be something electrical, very grateful for any help.

sounds like you are in LIMP MODE, not positive and not familiar with non-U.S. spec cars.
1st thing to do is use the search function on this site and try to get as much info as possible.
Usually a Mercedes Benz specialist that is FAMILIAR with transmissions will pull the codes and know the way to go.

First use the SEARCH function at this site, I am certain I have read many posts with this problem and the cure.

See if your kickdown switch is jammed.

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Chuck Taylor
Falls Church VA
'66 200, '66 230SL, '96 SL500. Sold: '81 380SL, '86 300E, '72 250C, '95 C220, 3 '84 280SL's '90 420SEL, '72 280SE, '73 280C, '78 280SE, '70 280SL, '77 450SL, '85 380SL, '87 560SL, '85 380SL, '72 350SL, '96 S500 Coupe

Will give it a try in the AM. Let you know how i get on. Many thanks

No luck, kick down switch seems to working

Off my chart, but the ATSG book suggests for "no upshifts":

- Check regulatiing pressure, if none, check operation of centrifugal governor and make operable

- If regulating pressure OK, disassemble/clean or renew shift valve housing

Sounds like you need a competent trans shop. Good luck.

__________________
Chuck Taylor
Falls Church VA
'66 200, '66 230SL, '96 SL500. Sold: '81 380SL, '86 300E, '72 250C, '95 C220, 3 '84 280SL's '90 420SEL, '72 280SE, '73 280C, '78 280SE, '70 280SL, '77 450SL, '85 380SL, '87 560SL, '85 380SL, '72 350SL, '96 S500 Coupe

Even if the kickdown switch "appears" to be working. Disconnect it (behind the gas pedal) and try again. I had the same problem, the switch appeared to come back out but the car would not shift. It started shifting once I disconnected the electrical plug.

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1999 Porsche 996 Carrera Convertible
1994 420E - SOLD
1986 300E - SOLD, what a car
609 Certified

Many thanks for your help. Have put car in shop, will let you know how it gets on.