210 E class shifter
 

The shifter on my '99 E430 will not go past drive, can't use 3,2,1.
Anyone know the fix

John

The 99 model does not have an ESM (shift module). Atleast ones that have a pattern: P,R,N,D,4,3,2,1. Cars with ESM would probably need a module.

Check your brake light switch.

You have a shifter module (whether it's called ESM or not, I don't know - there is no mechanical linkage to the tranny for the gear positions 4 through 1). It's a box with a transmission range switch in it that sends a signal to the transmission. If the shifter won't move, there's something mechanically wrong in the box.
If you wanted to dive in yourself, I would definitely get a manual or diagram first.
You can definitely replace it yourself by removing the center console, but I imagine it carries a pricetag intended to trigger the "fight or flight" response in most humans.

There is absolutely a connection to the trans no matter whether you have a shift module (2000 on cars that have a shift pattern: P,R,N.D,+,-) or a coded shift switch (96-99 cars with shifters that state: P,R,N,D,4,3,2,1).

The coded switch shifters can be disassembled and the switch replaced. The ESM can not, atleast there are no parts..... anything can be disassembled. When one starts the car with ones foot on the brake the release of the shifter is activated by the fact the brake is depressed. If it doesn't know the switch is depressed the shifter doesn't move. Simple answer, there could be more complex answers!

99 w/722.6

http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb2.asp?TP=1&F=210225&M=606%2E962&GA=722%2E608&CT=F&cat=45Q&SID=26&SGR=100&SGN=02

http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb2.asp?TP=1&F=210225&M=606%2E962&GA=722%2E608&CT=GA&cat=23V&SID=27&SGR=095&SGN=09

This thread may help:

http://mbclub.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=6722&highlight=switch

It won't be the brake light switch since that's only required to get out of P. You have a mechanical problem down there. Its not a massive job to go in and have a poke around. Make sure you're careful not to let the linkage drop down.

I just noticed the title of the post and realized I misread it... sorry. I take back what I said about the brake light switch. The rest is appropriate though, your shifter can be disassembled, but you might wish to disconnect the shift rod to see if the shifter still won't shift.

Not for the 4, 3, 2, 1 shifts.

Thanks everyone. I know it's in the shifter, just hoped someone had done it before.

The diagram will help.

Thanks again,
John