Questions and Answers

Mercedes 190E Bangs Into Gear Q. Mr. Ciulla: My 1993 Mercedes Benz 190E 2.6 liter has a 6-cylinder inline gasoline engine with 70,000 miles. The car has been relatively trouble-free, has had excellent care, has been garaged all its life, and has had all periodic maintenance performed on time by the local Mercedes Benz dealer. Recently, I have had a problem with the 4-speed automatic transmission.

It shifts properly at all times when it is warm. When cold, it shifts properly at most times. The exception is the shift from N to D. When I first back out in the morning and shift from N to D, the shift is delayed for several seconds, and when it does come it hits with a loud clunk. After driving for about ten minutes and the transmission fluid warms up, the shift from N to D becomes smooth; that is, there is no delay and no loud clunk.

Is this symptom a harbinger of trouble down the road? I'd appreciate any information you can give me.

Thanks very much,
Edgar

A. This is definitely something to be concerned about and your Mercedes Benz dealer is the one best able to help you. Leave the car with them overnight and be there in the morning to demonstrate what the problem is.