2000 430E occasional transmission issue
 

On 4-5 occasions over the past 3 months I have experienced an issue where the transmission doesn't shift and stays in 1st or 2nd(not sure) I see in the manual you can't check the level as it's sealed with no dip stick. After it does it, I park it and the next time, maybe later the same day orthe next anyway, it shifts fine until it happens againin a few weeks. The first couple of times it was very cold outside so I thought it might be related to a cold catalytic converter but the last couple of times it was warm. Does this suggest an upcoming implosion and any suggestions on heading it off?

Read codes from trans & have it serviced IF the codes aren't related to slippage!

Codes are 700 and 715. code reader refers to 715 as "trans speed sensor" Not certain what this is and is it something that is easly replaced?

PO 715 is an engine code that states the trans is having a problem with an internal speed sensor.

Speed sensor is part of printed circuit board in the trans...MB part 140-270-11-61...$200. Takes a tech about 2-2.5 hrs to replace.

OF course that code MUST be erased from the trans computer as well as the engine computer.

Listen to M.B. DOC on this one. Your speed sensors (conductor plate) need to be replaced. I just did mine a few weeks ago.

The part has gone through several revisions. The part number M.B. DOC has is the latest (since last month) at a reduced list price (a good surprise).

I will even go out on the limb and say that your car actually stuck on 3rd gear when it happens. Do you feel like it is hard to get it going from a stop position? 1st or 2nd gear will not get you that (sluggish) feeling. In 3rd gear, 40 MPH will run about 3000 RPM.

Thanks- I'll get on it.