BRIAN LIFE AND TECH

How to Check the ATF Level in a Mercedes W203 Transmission When I first started using my Mercedes W203, I often struggled with determining the correct Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) level in my car. My vehicle is a Mercedes W203 facelift C180 Kompressor, equipped with a 5-speed 722.6 transmission. Below is the dipstick I use. This is the standard dipstick for this type of transmission and can be Fig 1: Dipstick 722.6 Transmission (Length 920mm) To accurately measure the ATF level, follow these steps: Park on a Level Surface Ensure the car is parked on a flat and even surface. Warm Up the Engine Start the engine and allow it to warm up for a few minutes. For the best results, perform the measurement after driving the car for some time to ensure the ATF is fully heated. Set the Gear to 'Park' Mode Ensure the gear lever is in the 'P' (Park) position. Locate the ATF Dipstick Tube Identify the location of the transmission fluid dipstick tube. Unlock and Remove the Dipsti...

Transmission Issue: Unable to Detect Gear Location Fig 1: Symptom of Gear status unknown Symptoms: Gear status unknown (as in the picture above: Fig 1) When attempting to reset, the car can move, but in "Drive" mode, it only operates in limp mode. Unable to shift gears to "Reverse" (R) or "Park" (P), only to "Neutral" (N). Observed Behavior: Limp mode activated. Gear status not detected. In "Drive" (D) mode, the car moves but only in limp mode. Gear cannot be shifted to "Reverse" or "Park." Troubleshooting and Rectification Steps Initial Steps: Perform a gearbox reset. If the problem persists, proceed to the next steps. Verify the last gearbox service. If it is still within the recommended service interval, follow these solutions: Solution 1: TCU Check and Cleaning Remove the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) and inspect it. Heat the TCU board (the electrical board inside Fig 2) in an oven at 200°C for 6-8 minutes to ...