Update: I called AAA for a tow to the dealer. The T/T driver told me he knew a great MBZ only shop a couple blocks away and they would be way cheaper than the dealer. I took it there and they also told me trans was toast ($120 analysis; $5350 estimate on a rebuilt). They, of course badmouthed the last place I took it.

Well, know I'm really confused and feeling really stupid for listening to the T/T driver who may have had a vested interest or not, so I guess I'm going to try a third opinion at the dealer. I'm getting stubborn now and it's the only way I'm going to get an SDS opinion. But then what, I still don't really have faith in either of the two shops I've visited.

Since there are many other small cumulative small shortcomings with the car (tires, rims, 2 rock chipped headlights and a windshield bullet chip, non working auto aerial, window activators weak, etc) I am closing in very quickly on net deducts from FMV that are fast approaching a big zero. It may be time to think about a headstone!

i'll update again after the dealer with whatever the next quantum leap is, just to update for all who have been so very helpful and to reaffirm how lucky you are to know what you're doing.