Mercedes: trans probs 87 mercedes 300E, mercedes 300e, mercedes club

Question
QUESTION: We have one of those replace or fix it dilemmas. Several years ago we got my mom's 87 Mercedes 300E.  She took great care of it.  It has 140,00O Miles. Three years ago,  the car met a deer, and much in front was replaced ( a/c radiator, other misc).  Four times in the past week, the RPM has gone very  high, and made an odd noise. There was jerkiness getting into the higher gears. My son  was clear there was nothing normal about it. Sometimes the RPM went even higher, sometimes would go way down and back up.  He took it to a shop that has done all the work, and they say it needs a new transmission--which also surprised them,  considering the low milage . The rest of the car is in good shape and well maintained.   They are quoting $2200 for the job.  We realize the car isn't worth that, but wonder if a new transmission might give us another 50,000 miles or more.  If so, then it would be worth it, we think...   We would really appreciate your opinion asap. Thanks, Ron.

ANSWER: Hilary,
If you did not receive my reply, I apologize. If you did would your please let me know, and I will reanswer the quesition.
Thank
Rob

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I did not get the reply--just your statement to let you know if we didn't.  Please send it again, thanks.

Answer
Transmissions live and die by the heat generated in their use. If the fluids are changed regularly and the car is operated on the open road without towing where the transmission can remain cool, they will run for many many miles. But it they are driven in traffic often where the temperatures can climb then the fluid break down much more rapidly and ware of the bands will result in slippage.  And, like any mechanical device there are variances in the parts that determine their length of service too.

I would take the vehicle to a trusted independent transmission repairman. You may want to get to know some of the members of a local Mercedes club and ask their advice about who they recommend.

Yes, in general, Mercedes vehicles have a mystique about their longevity and history, but again if you go to Germany, they are just like Chevys and Fords.  Lots and lots of them. Some good and new, some not so good.

The symptoms you describe indicate that there will be a transmission failure in your future the questions is when.
You may want to add a can of transmission doctor that may get you a few more miles as it will help seal up the gaskets and seals. Just make sure the AAA account is paid up stay not too far from home.

Given the age and mileage of the vehicle,  you may want to consider a good used transmission. Yes they are generally only guaranteed to work when installed but probably would be a major difference in cost over a rebuild.  I would look for one in the 60,000 mile range or less if possible. All the fluids, filter and torque converter need to be changed and the bands adjusted. You should be able to get an aftermarket converter at a reasonable cost.

I would not have any work performed at a dealership. Their profits are made in the repair and service departments, not in the showroom.
This vehicle if it has not had a timing belt or chain replaced, may have it go out at any time with very expensive results.

Again, it is a balance about what you intend to do with the vehicle after the repair.
I would be trying to install a used transmission in the vehicle and see if I could sell the vehicle for enough to pay for the repair and have a little left to place on another car.
You would be lucky to get enough to reimburse you for $2200 based on today's car market.
I have a 1986 42SEL stretch four door sedan, and I would be lucky to get $2,500 for it.
Sorry for the not so good news. PS. Sound like your son has a pretty good idea about mechanical things.
Good Luck
Let us know what you decided or how it come out.
Rob