What Makes Your Mercedes Hesitate When Shifting?

A common issue for Mercedes owners is hesitation when shifting gears. This can be a frustrating experience, as it can make the driving experience less smooth and can also be indicative of a larger problem with your car or SUV. Let’s look at the most common reasons why this occurs and what will need to be done to repair it.

Transmission Fluid Issues

One of the most common reasons why your Mercedes may hesitate when shifting gears is due to transmission fluid issues. The transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating the transmission’s components and ensuring smooth gear changes. If the fluid is low, dirty, or has lost its viscosity, it can cause the gears to grind or stick, leading to hesitation when shifting. If you suspect that this is the problem, you should have the transmission fluid checked and changed if necessary.

Clogged Transmission Filter

Another possible reason for hesitation when shifting gears is a clogged transmission filter. The filter is responsible for removing any debris or contaminants from the transmission fluid, and if it becomes clogged, it can cause the fluid to become dirty and ineffective. A clogged filter can lead to a variety of transmission problems, including slipping, delayed engagement, and hesitation when shifting gears. To fix this issue, the transmission filter will need to be replaced.

Worn Out Transmission Gears

Worn-out transmission gears can also cause hesitation when shifting gears in your Mercedes. Over time, the gears in the transmission can become worn and damaged, leading to rough shifting, slipping, and other issues. If you notice that your gears are making unusual noises or if you are experiencing hesitation when shifting, you should have your transmission inspected by a professional mechanic to determine if the gears need to be replaced.

Electronic Control Module (ECM) Problems

The ECM is responsible for controlling the transmission, and if it is not functioning properly, it can cause the gears to slip or fail to engage properly, leading to hesitation when shifting. If you suspect that the ECM is the problem, visit us promptly, as we can make the necessary changes quickly for you.

Linkage Problems

Another possible reason for hesitation when shifting gears in your Mercedes is linkage problems. The linkage is responsible for connecting the transmission to the shift lever, and if it becomes damaged or worn out, it can cause the gears to fail to engage properly or slip, leading to hesitation when shifting. To fix this issue, the linkage will need to be inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

Sensor Issues

Another cause of hesitation when shifting gears in your Mercedes is sensor issues. Your vehicle’s transmission is equipped with various sensors that monitor the speed, pressure, and temperature of the transmission fluid. If any of these sensors malfunction or become damaged, they can cause the transmission to misinterpret the data it receives, leading to hesitation when shifting gears. If you suspect that the sensor is failing, take it to our professional mechanics for inspection and repairs if necessary.

Torque Converter Problems

The torque converter is an important component in your Mercedes’ transmission. The torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission, and if it fails to work properly, it can cause the gears to slip or fail to engage, leading to hesitation when shifting.

Engine Issues

In some cases, hesitation when shifting gears in your Mercedes may be due to underlying engine problems. If your engine is not running smoothly or if it is misfiring, it can affect the performance of the transmission and lead to hesitation when shifting gears. Any engine issue should not be ignored, as it could cause more damage to your car or SUV.

Auto Assets is Your One Stop Shop in Powell for Mercedes Issues

Having read all the possible causes of hesitation in your gear when you try to shift, it is important that you take action to fix the problem as soon as you can. Bring your Mercedes to us at Auto Assets. We are committed to delivering a fast and reliable repair and maintenance service to our customers from Columbus, Dublin, New Albany, Worthington, and Powell, OH. Schedule an appointment with one of our experts now!

* Mercedes Benz G Class Gear Lever image credit goes to: Wirestock.