Graduate To A Mercedes Rebuilt Transmission by GotTransmissions.com
From 1990 thru 1995, the Mercedes Benz SL500 used a boring hydraulic 4-speed automatic transmission. It was boring because it rarely downshift upon command. A much improved 5-speed electronic controlled automatic transmission was introduced in 1996 and used through today. The 5-speed automatic greatly improves the driving experience because it downshifts instantly, as well as adding a fuel saving overdrive.
Unfortunately the first SL500s had ordinary hydraulic 4 speed automatic transmission that were slow to kick down, if at all. It was great from a standing stop and on paper, but dull to drive since you miss most of the power from a lack of kick-down if you’re already moving.
Even when it did kick down it wouldn’t always kick all the way down at WOT (wide open throttle) shifts. Ratios were 3.87, 2.25, 1.44 and 1.00 with a 2.65 rear for shift points of 44, 76, 119 MPH and 2,170 RPM at 60 MPH. You can identify this transmission by the “P R N D 3 2 ” indication on the transmission selector. The newer 5 speed says “P R N D 4 3 2 1”
The 5 speed is the main reason that these and newer cars are so much more drivable and fun than earlier cars, and also why they give better fuel economy. Even at part throttle these downshift expertly, unlike the older transmission which rarely would downshift for anything, cheating you out of much of the engine’s performance for real-world driving.
The added fifth gear is an overdrive which boosts the EPA highway MPG rating from 20 to 23 MPG. The transmission learns what you’re doing, so it adapts electronically to your driving style. For instance, in a 100MPH acceleration run uphill it stays in 3rd gear for quite a while even after lifting off the gas, in anticipation of being hammered again. Caution: it’s not quite smart enough to prevent you from doing something unfortunate, like being popped into reverse at 100MPH. Many ordinary cars today, like Dodge minivans, are smart enough not to do this even if you move the shift lever.
If you get sluggish response be sure to have the new transmission mode selector set to “S” for Summer or Sport. The “W” position, for Winter or Wet, deliberately starts in 2nd gear. In 2005 models Mercedes renamed the “W” Wet selection to “C” for Comfort.
We are one of the best resources for Mercedes Benz Rebuilt Transmissions. With a few easy to locate numbers, we will sell you a completely rebuilt transmission that is calibrated for your exact model of Mercedes.
Ask about our bullet-proof warranty plans. Every Mercedes transmission is rebuilt with the same quality built into the car. Call GotTransmissions.com @ 866-320-1182 and speak with someone who cares about selling you the best transmission for your needs.
