How Transmission Leaks Affect Your Mercedes’ Shifting In Humble
It’s widely known that cars manufactured by renowned German auto maker Mercedes are highly reliable and safe to drive. But as with any other vehicles, they are susceptible to occasional breakdowns. Today’s blog post is about transmission leaks- which have emerged as a major cause of concern for Mercedes owners worldwide.
Read through to find out the way a transmission fluid leak can impact your vehicle’s shifting capabilities and what you can do about it. Let’s begin by discussing the reasons behind transmission fluid loss in modern-day cars.
Possible Reasons For Fluid Leaks Explained
Transmission fluid is crucial for your Mercedes’ gearbox to perform smoothly and efficiently. This fluid is the reason why you get to shift between gears effortlessly. It keeps the moving parts thoroughly lubricated and prevents heat buildup inside the gearbox. If it leaks out, you will experience all sorts of performance-related issues in your Mercedes. Listed below are a few reasons why your vehicle’s transmission fluid can leak out;
#1- Deteriorated seals
Gearbox units modern-day cars come equipped with have various seals and gaskets incorporated into them. By preventing fluid leakage and ensuring lubrication of key components- these rubber-made components make it possible for the transmission unit to operate smoothly and efficiently. If they wear out, fluid will leak out of the transmission housing.
#2- Loose or damaged pan
Fluid will pour out of your Mercedes’ transmission if its pan comes loose or gets damaged. The pan essentially acts as a reservoir that holds the transmission fluid. In some cases, the transmission pans contain a built-in filter. If there is something off with the transmission pan or the filter built into it, fluid will leak out. Defective transmission lines can also contribute to fluid loss in a vehicle.
#3- Excessive fluid pressure
Elevated fluid pressure within the transmission system can cause seals and gaskets to blow out. This is something that can result in transmission fluid loss among other issues. There can be many reasons why fluid pressure inside your Mercedes’ gearbox may rise abnormally; ranging from blockages to overheating. Have your transmission unit inspected by a technician to figure out what went wrong with it.
Effects on Shifting
#1- Slipping gears
If your Mercedes’ transmission fluid level depletes below the minimum acceptable level because of a leak in the system, gears would fail to engage properly and you will notice delay or hesitation when shifting. It is due to the fact that an adequate amount of fluid is crucial for optimal hydraulic pressure inside the transmission unit- which in turn facilitates hassle-free gear shifting. Fluid loss because of a leak can disrupt this delicate balance- which will result in frequent gear slips.
#2- Rough shifting
Transition between gears won’t be smooth if there is not enough fluid left in the transmission system. Defective solenoid, faulty control module, overheating, worn clutch components, and fluid contamination are some of the other leading reasons behind rough or jerky shifting in Mercedes cars. If you ignore this strange behavior of your vehicle and keep driving, you might end up damaging important gearbox components.
#3- Gearbox overheating
This is yet another issue that you might have to deal with because of transmission fluid loss. Hydraulic fluid circulating inside the gearbox helps the transmission system with many different things including heat dissipation. Continual circulation of this hydraulic fluid enables you to drive your Mercedes for an extended period without being worried about the transmission getting overheated. Unavailability of an adequate amount of such an important fluid can result in gearbox overheating, among other issues.
Addressing the Issue
#1- Check fluid level
If your Mercedes’ gearbox is running hot and acting a bit weird lately, the very first thing that you should do is to grab the dipstick to check the transmission fluid level.
#2- Inspect for leaks
Check for fluid puddles or stains where you parked your Mercedes the previous night. Check different seals, gaskets, and the pan of your transmission unit for visible damage marks.
#3- Seek professional help
If your Mercedes is losing transmission fluid, it is a matter of some concern. Reach out to a nearby auto service center to get the issue diagnosed by certified professionals.
Here’s How Motorwerks Auto Group Can Help
Transmission fluid leak can contribute to 
an array of performance-related issues in a vehicle including rough shifting. If you are struggling to transition between gears in your Mercedes because of fluid loss, please reach out to us. Located in Humble, TX, Motorwerks Auto Group has an excellent track record in fixing complicated gearbox issues in high-end vehicles including Mercedes cars. Call us now or book an appointment online.