How To Change Transmission Fluid and Filter In A Mercedes-Benz

The Mercedes-Benz transmissions are said to be sealed for life. However, new vehicles are recommended to have their automatic transmission fluid including filters changed every 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Although there are claims that changing the oil will cause problems like the transmission acting up due to old versus new oil viscosity or that the dirt particles of the new fluid will clog the filter, the new oil has additives which can cause unnecessary friction, and so on. However, to extend the life of your vehicles' transmission, the fluid need to be changed at any of the authorized Mercedes Benz repair Laguna Niguel shops near you.

What Type of Transmission Oil Should Be Used?

The recommended transmission fluid is MBZ ATF 236.14 which costs $20 per liter. For other options, it is best to inquire from your trusted dealership to make sure that the fluid you'll use meets the specification of your Mercedes Benz.

Steps In Changing the Transmission Fluid and Filter

1. Jack up the front of the car after setting the emergency brakes. It isn't necessary to jack up all wheels, just secure the front on jack stands.

2. Remove the engine undercover which is held in place by an 8mm bolt.

3. Exercise caution in removing the 5mm bolt/ drain plug under the transmission with the use of an Allen wrench as the fluid may still be hot. Make sure you have a drain pan ready that can hold 11 quarts or so of oil. It will also help if you have lots of paper towels ready.

4. Drain the oil from the torque converter and the transmission oil pan for about five minutes or until there aren't any more oils dripping from the pan. Some models, especially those 1999 models below, have a window that will allow access to the bottom of the torque converter. The early 2000 model up to the current ones don't have access holes anymore.

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