Help - Just purchased a 1989 300SE Sat. I drove it home (50+ miles one way all highway driving). I got off the highway and had to stop to turn onto my street and the car wouldn't shift out of first gear. Engine rpm was about 4500!

I limped home (200 yards) and there the car sat. I check the fluids, both hot and cold and they were fine, no burnt smell. I let the car sit for 4-5 hrs, and started it up, but still would not shift out of first gear. This morning I started up and pulled out of the driveway and it shifted normally. I drove it approximately 5 miles with no problems.

I'm totally stumped. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I'm thinking that if I have to replace the transmission I'll return the car, but it is something minor I'll take care of it.

Happy Holidays to all
Bob

I had a similar problem years ago on a GM auto and it turned out it be a lose vaccum tube, reconnected it properly and all my problems went away. Worth checking out all the hoses anyway. Also how long has it been since the tranny was serviced? Might be worth doing a fluid and filter change if you don't know when it was last changed.

Matt.