Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (2024)

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Jim Clark

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  • Nov 19, 2019
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I have owned a 2009 C180 auto from new and have done 75k miles. It's never had a gearbox service, should I get one done?

I'm asking because on my way home today, I was doing 75/80mph, and when I slightly lifted off the accelerator by 5mph, it felt like the car was changing down gears. It's a very odd feeling and it's quite concerning. Should I be worried?

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yes asap

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Wighty

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As above , it’s 35,000 miles overdue Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (3)

Wighty

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Where do you live ? You may get an Indy recommendation

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I live in Dartford in Kent. I will try and get one booked in for this weekend. What's a reasonable price for one?

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Jim Clark said:

I live in Dartford in Kent. I will try and get one booked in for this weekend. What's a reasonable price for one?

Go to AMF Automotive , Alex is an MB Indy on this site

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Jim Clark said:

I live in Dartford in Kent. I will try and get one booked in for this weekend. What's a reasonable price for one?

around 200 quid job done pal , thow those of us who can do our own manage for under half that

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vtaylor78 said:

I would be asking why you Wouldn’t have it serviced ??

I was told by one garage when I took it to be serviced that it drives "beautifully" and they don't recommend gearbox services because they "create further problems". I feel like a complete fool for not asking other garages.

vtaylor78

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  • Nov 19, 2019
  • #11

Jim Clark said:

I was told by one garage that it drives "beautifully" and they don't recommend a gearbox service because they "create further problems". I feel like a complete fool for not asking other garages.

I think you’ll notice a difference when it’s done .

bembo449

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years back they were sealed for life but these days with all the extra complicated things gearbox's do , they need fresh fluid every 40k really , I wonder what else that garage think isn't necessary ?

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vtaylor78 said:

I think you’ll notice a difference when it’s done .

Do you think this is why it feels like it is changing down gears? Or could that be a separate problem?! I'm worried I'm going to get hit with a huge bill now!

vtaylor78

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bembo449 said:

around 200 quid job done pal , thow those of us who can do our own manage for under half that

Wighty’s got plenty of time he will do it for you Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (11)

bembo449

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take it to AMF , Alex is a good bloke , im sure he will put your mind at rest and it will need little more than oil + filter

vtaylor78

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Jim Clark said:

Do you think this is why it feels like it is changing down gears? Or could that be a separate problem?! I'm worried I'm going to get hit with a huge bill now!

I’ll leave that to the other Gents , that are more knowledgeable than me Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (14)

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vtaylor78 said:

Wighty’s got plenty of time he will do it for you Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (16)

I would happily do the job if the owner fancies a ride out Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (17)Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (18)

Wighty

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Jim Clark said:

Do you think this is why it feels like it is changing down gears? Or could that be a separate problem?! I'm worried I'm going to get hit with a huge bill now!

It will be a bigger bill if you go to a garage that doesn’t recommend gearbox oil changes “ever” . That will cost 4K for a new gearbox

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Wighty said:

It will be a bigger bill if you go to a garage that doesn’t recommend gearbox oil changes “ever” . That will cost 4K for a new gearbox

Oh, I definitely won't be going there again!

LostKiwi

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  • Nov 19, 2019
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bembo449 said:

I would happily do the job if the owner fancies a ride out Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (21)Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (22)

Kent to Linc's is a good ride out!

Alex at AMF is your man. No doubt he'll be along soon @alexanderfoti

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Gearbox Service on C180? Are they recommended? (2024)

FAQs

How often should a Mercedes gearbox be serviced? ›

Your Mercedes Benz automatic gearbox oil and filter should be replaced every; 5 Speed - Every 40,000 miles or 4 Years [whichever is the soonest].

Do I need to service my gearbox? ›

If you let your gearbox fall into a poor state it's likely to have a much shorter life. Manual cars should have gearbox servicing every 30,000-60,000 miles. Check your manual to find out what's recommended.

Do I really need to change gearbox oil? ›

Manual gearboxes usually require a gearbox oil change every 30,000 to 50,000 mi (48,000 to 80,000 km). Automatic gearboxes usually have gear oil change intervals of between 60,000 to 100,000 mi (96,000 to 160,000 km). It's advisable that you change your gearbox oil filter at the same time as your oil.

How often should you service your gear box? ›

However, if for some reason you can't find that, then here's a good rule of thumb: you should get your automatic gearbox serviced about every 15 months, or 15,000 miles, whichever comes first.

How much does it cost to service gearbox? ›

A manual gearbox replacement can cost anywhere from £500 to upwards of £3,000. An automatic gearbox replacement can cost anywhere from £1,000 to upwards of £5,000.

How long should a Mercedes gearbox last? ›

According to the experts at our Mercedes-Benz service center, a typical automatic transmission should last around 150,000 to 200,000 miles–that comes out to roughly seven years of use.

What are the benefits of gearbox service? ›

The Benefits
  • Extends transmission life by providing resistance to oxidation, sludge formation and varnish.
  • Reduces risk of premature transmission failure.
  • Fresh fluid reduces wear and scouring of clutch plates.
  • Promotes smooth shifting.
  • Improved MPG.

What are the signs of gearbox problems? ›

Signs of common gearbox problems you should never ignore
  • Loss of power.
  • Leaking fluid.
  • Clunking noise during gear shifts.
  • Unable to shift gears.
  • Burning smell.
  • Automatic transmission shudders.
  • Jumping gears.
  • Blocked transmission filter.
Jan 17, 2024

What happens during a gearbox service? ›

A transmission service involves cleaning out the old transmission fluid and replacing it with new fluid. A complete transmission service, on the other hand, should include inspecting the sump pump or pan (if possible), replacing or cleaning the filter, cleaning the pan, and replacing the pan gasket.

How many years does gearbox oil last? ›

Most manufacturers suggest that you change your gearbox oil every 50,000 miles or five years, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently drive in harsh conditions such as stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures, it may be necessary to change the oil more frequently.

How do I know if my gearbox needs oil? ›

How to know if gearbox oil is low – the signs
  • Late engagement. Low levels of gearbox oil usually result in 2-3 second delays when shifting between gears.
  • Your car is lurching. ...
  • Vibration. ...
  • Issues with the clutch. ...
  • Dark-coloured fluid. ...
  • Transmission slipping. ...
  • Grinding. ...
  • Can you prevent gearbox replacement?
Nov 26, 2020

What happens if gear oil is not changed? ›

Gear oil's lubricating quality will be harmed as a result of these circ*mstances. As a result, if the gear oil is not drained and replaced on a regular basis, the transmission's service life will be limited.

Is a gearbox service necessary? ›

It is thoroughly unsafe to drive your car with an improperly maintained transmission. Even if you think the transmission is working fine, if it hasn't been serviced then all kinds of things could be wrong with it, possibly resulting in a sudden transmission failure or breakdown.

What happens if you don't service your gearbox? ›

Shocks or judders experienced during gear change – Due to internal pollution and oil degradation the switching valves in your gearbox will not react fast enough. Correct gear not being retained – Clogged oil passages causing insufficient oil pressure to maintain gear selection.

What is the life span of a gearbox? ›

How Long Should Your Gearbox Last? Your manual gearbox should be able to last up to 120,000 miles on average, however erratic and inefficient driving can definitely reduce this and cause damage.

How often should Mercedes-Benz transmission fluid be changed? ›

The most important way to protect your transmission is to have the fluid flushed regularly to remove any contaminants and ensure that the fluid is lubricating the gears. A transmission flush every 30,000 miles will keep your transmission clean.

How do I know if my gearbox needs replacing? ›

8 Signs Your Gearbox Is Failing
  • Fluid leakage. ...
  • Warning lights on your dashboard. ...
  • Gears become unresponsive. ...
  • Keep an ear out for any peculiar noises. ...
  • Beware a shaking, jerk or grind. ...
  • There may be a rumble when the vehicle is in neutral. ...
  • If you smell burning rubber, that can be a warning.
Sep 15, 2022

What is the routine maintenance of a gearbox? ›

Common Gearbox Maintenance Procedures
  • Oil Change. The lubricating oil in the gearbox degrades over time due to heat and wear. ...
  • Inspection of Seals and Gaskets. Seals and gaskets play a crucial role in preventing oil leakage and keeping contaminants out. ...
  • Gear Inspection. ...
  • Bearing Maintenance. ...
  • Alignment Checks.

Are Mercedes gearboxes reliable? ›

Merc, BMW and Audi use a zf gearbox, very reliable, however don't believe the sealed for life gumph the dealer puts out. Transmission service every few years (new fluid and filter) works wonders. None really produce reliable diesel's that won't cost you a packet when they go wrong and they will I can assure you.

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