95 E320 wagon transmission kicks when shifting
 

I recently bought a 1995 E320 wagon. It has 228K miles. I've noticed at around 30-40 mph when it shifts to the next gear it kinda hesitates before the shift ,then kicks( the whole cars kinda rocks back and forth). The tranny was rebuilt @ 170k miles in 04-2003 . I haven't taken it to my mechenic yet . Should I expect him to tell me I need to rebuild the tranny?

Is their any kind of DIY test I can perform to know if the transmission is on it's way out?

Did you have the same problem?

This was a 1 owner car (I bought it from my lawyer)and I have all the service records from new. Not a cent was spared on service.

Any reply's would be appreciated
Thanks,
Tony

I took it to the mechanic today for his input.
After we had driven it he told me it's definitly slipping, and he would have to inspect and run some test.
I'm thinking worst case scenario I may need to rebuild the tranny.
What should I expect to pay for a Rebuilt Transmission?

Thanks,
Tony

Could also be an upshift delay. Is the Check Engine light on, or has it come on before?

Also, check fluid level.

No the check engine light is off. Fluid level is fine.
My mechanic told me he was gonna adjust the vaccum and see if that takes care of the problem. I've got my fingers crossed.
Thanks,
Tony

Check the inexpensive things first. Vacuum leaks are the obvious culprit. There are two vacuum lines which run across the rear firewall, under the windshield wiper motor and battery. They feed two vacuum reservoirs hidden in the passenger fenderwell. These lines are known the develop leaks, especially if any battery acid has spilled. Anyone who knows this car can test them in five minutes with a hand vacuum pump.

I had a slightly clunky/harsh 3-4 shift in my '93 sedan for several years. Eventually the climate system started changing to defrost during acceleration, a sure sign of vacuum leaks. Replacing the rotted sections of these lines not only fixed the vent problem, the trans shifted smoother, and the idle improved. I'd check it out before dropping bux for a new trans.

- JimY

Just returned from the shop.
He adjusted the vaccum line or something like that.
I didn't have to change any parts and they only charged me for 2hrs of labor for a total of $110. I guess I got lucky.:D

the transmission is now shifting much much smoother.
Still a little "sluggish" , but a huge improvement.

I'll be Driving it Nevada via the Interstate 15 this weekend for a long overdue Vegas road trip. It's a little less then 300 miles.

Thanks,
Tony