Bad things can happen to good people. I bought a 190d recently. The previous owner said I would be able to drive it home, nearly 300 miles, but common sense prevailed and I trailered it.
Upon arriving I discovered that the trans cooler line was looped back into the engine, by passing the radiator. Also the fluid was low. No doubt he knew about this and failed to mention it.
So I filled and got what I thought was foamy fluid. Off to a reputable transmission shop.
The report back was water in the fluid, a lot of water. Strawberry colored. Shop did not recommend rebuilding. No explanation of source of water, although car has been parked for several years I believe. Shop thought perhaps water ran in through the vent. Mercedes wouldnt allow that to happen would they?
I have less than 25 miles on the car, and it shifts more or less correctly with no slippage so far, so how badly damaged is this transmission? I should note that the car is not worth the price of a reman since it needs most of its numerous wear parts renewed.
When the transmission fails, will I have plenty of warning or very little? Thanks!