I would like some input on a decision I need to make regarding my transmission. I’ve recently purchased a 2003 C320 for my daughter. It has 161,000 miles. The original owner recently traded the vehicle in due to some needed maintenance items. The items were repaired and the vehicle was then sold to me. The items repaired were thrust arm bushings, left catalytic converter, B service and brakes and rotors at all four corners. The body and paint are near perfect so I decided to buy the car. I was aware that there was a slight flare in RPM’s at the 2-3 shift. By the way it is an automatic transmission.

At first I thought I could live with it but the car is so perfect I just can’t stand it anymore. I had a trusted transmission specialist change the regulator spring in the valve body for the 2-3 shift. The problem didn’t change and he said that it had been driven for too long with a broken spring thus causing undue wear on the clutches. He has quoted me a price of $2000 for a soft rebuild.

My main question is should I soft rebuild or try to purchase a used transmission with low miles? I welcome all ideas and suggestions.

Thanks ahead.

srb1194