SevereAffected: 2009-201680,000–140,000 miles

Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212 E220 CDI — Automatic Gearbox Valve Body / Mechatronic Solenoids

The solenoids inside the automatic transmission valve body get clogged with clutch material, causing harsh, thumping gear changes.

Severity

Severe

DIY Difficulty

Professional Only

Est. Cost

£800–£1500

OBD Codes

P0700P0730

Component Diagram

Gearbox

Typical layout and location for the Gearbox assembly.

Reference Illustration

Symptoms

Hard 'thump' when selecting Drive or Reverse
Flaring revs between gear changes
Transmission slipping into neutral
Gearbox fault light on dash

Root Cause

Lack of servicing. Most manufacturers claim the gearbox is 'sealed for life', but the oil degrades and clutches shed material, jamming the delicate hydraulic solenoids in the valve body.

How To Fix

First attempt: Full transmission fluid flush and filter change (£200-300).
If unsuccessful, the valve body must be removed and overhauled, or replaced.
Cost: £800-1,500 at an automatic transmission specialist.

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair Option	Est. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)	£320–£600
Independent Garage	£800–£1500
Main Dealership	£1280–£2400

Other Faults on This Variant

Timing Chain Stretch (Rear Mounted)

Critical

2009-2015100,000–200,000 miles£1200–£2000

Like BMW's N47, Mercedes placed the OM651's timing chain at the rear of the engine. It is a single-row chain that stretches over time, causing a loud rattle on cold starts.

Air Conditioning Condenser Leak (Stone Damage)

Minor

2009-201640,000–120,000 miles£250–£450

The air conditioning condenser is mounted at the very front of the cooling pack, making it highly susceptible to stone damage from the road, leading to refrigerant loss.

Front Anti-Roll Bar Drop Link Wear

Minor

2009-201630,000–80,000 miles£60–£120

The front anti-roll bar drop links wear out on heavily potholed UK roads, causing an annoying knocking sound at low speeds.

Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.