I'm currently in the market for a new Benz, and I am seriously considering a 97 E420. A few people told me that the cars had a Tranny problem. I checked some Websites to find if MBZ ever had a recall, and I found out that they indeed never have. Are the trannies problematic, and if so, do the E320's come with the same tranny.? Thanks in Advance.

Two answers to one question...

Both of the 210's in question do have the 722.6 tranny. I would only buy a later one like a 98 or 99...

If you have the money, why not spend the 28 to 30k dollars and buy a 500E? You will NEVER regret the purchase.

Well, there are no 500E's here in N.Y I have never seen a 500E on the roads over here. I have never seen one for sale, and I do lots of searching around. :) I would prefer to get a newer year care, than the latest 94 (a 500E) I like the newer interior of the w210 class and like the newer technology. However you do strike up a point about a 500E. I'll search around some more and possibly find one close by. I will definitely get one some time in the future even if I do end up with the E420 for now. I'm starting my little Benz collection already. :) Benzmac, what goes wrong with the E420's (97's) What goes wrong with the tranny's? Are their any warning signs that would indicate a problem. Gee I wish you were here in N.Y, I'd have you take a look at it. :) Thanks

The 722.6 electronic transmissions are designed and factory assembled with rather loose tolerances. As the transmission wears, there is little-to-no reserve to fall back on and problems (such as excessive output shaft play) can result.

This design weakness became apparent shortly after the 722.6's introduction and a LOT of these transmissions have been rebuilt under warranty.

Also, this transmission utilizes an "lifetime" transmission oil that requires renewal every 100K. I am aware of several 722.6 owners who, against dealer advice, have renewed their trans oil as early as 40K miles, in an effort to minimize wear and extend transmission life. At approx. $14/qt, fluid renewal costs over $100, but so far none have had any AT problems. Granted, a small sample size, but something to consider should you acquire the '97 E420 (or any M-B with a 722.6 transmission).