Hi, this is a quick yes/no question relating to the transmission operation of mine and all other 4 speed auto 300e's (pre 90). When the gear selector is at 2 and the car (obviously in second gear) is slowing gradually from about 15 km/h, it jumps into first gear before stop. If I come to a complete stop or I start to accelerate it remains in first gear. Is this normal operation or should first gear only be accessible through the kickdown switch (and near full pedal travel from stop)? Thanks.

This, to the best of my knowledge, is normal. People use the 2nd gear "trick" to start their cars off in 1st gear for better acceleration...

Yep it's normal, 190E's do it too

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190E's:
2.5-16v 1990 90,000m Astral Silver
2.0E 8v 1986 107,000m Black 2nd owner
http://www.maylane.demon.co.uk/190esmall.jpghttp://www.maylane.demon.co.uk/190esmall2.jpg