As evidenced from my earlier post, my tranny is in limp mode and the ABS and Check Engine lights are on. When the tranny is in limp mode, and I have it in W mode, should it shift hard into reverse and into drive? Mine seems to slam into drive and reverse, not as hard as it would in S mode. By the way, I have a 97 C280 Sport. I just dropped it of at the mechanics garage tonight to get it fixed. I am afraid it is going to cost me $$$$.

On that & all cars with electronic transmissions the trans will go into a limp mode if there is a problem in the traction system (ABS). Make sure they start their diagnosis there!

__________________
MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

'97 Heel here. DOC is the man, listen to his advice.

Well, I spoke to the shop that is doing the work and they have run the diagnostic on it. Right now, they are working to decipher the codes that it threw. I told the owner to check into the ABS Speed Sensor, he advised that they are looking there and thinks that there may be something in the valve body causing the hard shifts as well. He said that he would call me after they have the codes figured out. I will have them fax me a complete breakdown and estimate to see what you all think... Thanks for all of your help. I appreciate it!

Part of the limp mode strategy to prevent any further damage to the transmission like slipping clutches; the oil pressure is at maximum value.

There are two different reverse ratios when the transmission is in “W” and in the“S” mode. With the increase in oil pressure and different ratios, the harsh engagement in reverse is normal when in limp mode.