2004 Mercedes SL500 Convert

**YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY** · #1 11-11-2009, 08:32 PM

A bit of a story, but certain Benz models within the '02-'04 range, both 6 & 8 cyl, can have a radiator from one of two manufacturers - either Valeo or Behr. There was a run of Valeo radiators that have a mfg defect with the a/t trans fluid cooler located in the rad tank. The defect is that the trans cooler has a leak, and the engine coolant seeps into the trans fluid. The rad replacement is the minimum fix obviously.

The result is an increasingly obvious 'shudder, vibration, and whine' between ~1,200 rpm - ~3,000 rpm. The impact on the transmission is varied. The minimal impact is simply clutch pak and torque converter issues necessitating a fluid flush. The next level of impact is excessive wear on the clutch paks due to the electro-plating being scrubbed off, and the torque converter needing to be replaced. The extreme impact is that the entire transmission requires an overhaul/replacement ($8-$10k) due to complete failure of the mechanicals and electronics.

Surprisingly, this 'issue' was not considered to be worthy of a recall.

**MosportGreen66** · #2 11-12-2009, 01:18 AM

Hi Guys,

Being the issue has caused a stir (Google the topic), we're inquiring about the radiator in the Benz. If its any consolation, we've never experienced a problem in the car, the carfax is clean and the car has a full power train warranty until February 2011 or 100k miles. I will report back about the radiator. I have a call into the dealer.

Thanks,
Dan

**YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY** · #3 11-12-2009, 02:22 AM

From what I understand, a knowledgeable dealer can determine if the car has the infected radiator based on whether the car's vin number falls into a specific range. Also, a knowledgeable dealer can visually tell the difference between a Valeo vs. a Behr radiator.

Mercedes actually sells a test kit to the dealers with very specific instruction on how to take a sample of the trans fluid and test for the presence of glycol. If present, the ppm will generally dictate the level of repair necessary to correct the trans symptoms.

Ask me how I know

I really like my Benz, but when something goes wrong..... it's expensive!

JJEH · #4 11-12-2009, 11:21 AM

[ QUOTE ]
From what I understand, a knowledgeable dealer can determine if the car has the infected radiator based on whether the car's vin number falls into a specific range. Also, a knowledgeable dealer can visually tell the difference between a Valeo vs. a Behr radiator.

[/ QUOTE ]

A Mercedes-Benz Dealer can see the full History (FDOC or VDOC) of the car. But only when the car was by a MB Dealer for Service and Repair!

[ QUOTE ]

Ask me how I know

I really like my Benz, but when something goes wrong..... it's expensive!

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes sir, thats damn right

**MosportGreen66** · #5 11-16-2009, 08:39 PM

No luck on finding out the radiator in the car, but I did drop the reserve $1,000 to compensate.

-Dan

**YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY** · #6 11-17-2009, 02:21 AM

I wouldn't drop the reserve over a 'what if' radiator possibility! Its just something to be aware of, that's all.

**MosportGreen66** · #7 11-17-2009, 02:49 AM

[ QUOTE ]
I wouldn't drop the reserve over a 'what if' radiator possibility! Its just something to be aware of, that's all.

[/ QUOTE ]

I'm a nice guy.

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