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2020 E450 9G-TRONIC Transmission Hesitation and Jerking

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Mercedes-Benz E450

Hi all,

I'm experiencing some concerning transmission behavior with my 2020 Mercedes-Benz E450 (W213), which has the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. It has about 40,000 miles on it. Lately, I've noticed a distinct hesitation when accelerating from a stop, almost like it's struggling to find the right gear.

More recently, there have been occasional hard shifts and jerking, particularly when downshifting at lower speeds or coming to a stop. It's not constant, but it's happening frequently enough to be worrying. There's no check engine light on, but I'm wondering if this is a known issue with the 9G-TRONIC or if it's pointing to a bigger problem.

Has anyone else with a 2020 E450 or similar model experienced these transmission quirks? What was your experience and solution? Thanks for any insights!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:13 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Transmission hesitation and jerking in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz E450's 9G-TRONIC can be unsettling, especially with a relatively low mileage of 40,000. While the 9G-TRONIC is generally robust, these symptoms can indicate several potential issues, ranging from minor software glitches to more significant mechanical or fluid problems.

Common Causes for 9G-TRONIC Shifting Issues:

  • Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: Incorrect fluid levels or degraded fluid can significantly impact shifting performance. Mercedes-Benz transmissions are sensitive to fluid quality and level.
  • Software Adaptation Issues: The transmission control unit (TCU) learns your driving style. Sometimes, these adaptations can become 'confused' or require a reset/update, especially after battery disconnections or certain repairs.
  • Valve Body Malfunction: The valve body is responsible for directing transmission fluid to engage different gears. Internal wear or electrical issues within the valve body can cause erratic shifting.
  • Conductor Plate Issues: The conductor plate houses sensors and solenoids. A fault here can lead to incorrect gear engagement or communication problems.
  • Solenoid Problems: Specific solenoids within the transmission can stick or fail, affecting individual gear shifts.

Recommended Steps:

  1. Check for Codes: Even without a check engine light, a Mercedes-Benz specific diagnostic scanner can often pull 'soft' or pending transmission fault codes (P07xx series) that a generic OBD-II scanner might miss. This is the first crucial step.
  2. Fluid Level and Condition Check: While often a dealer-only procedure due to specific tools and temperature requirements, ensuring the transmission fluid is at the correct level and isn't burnt or discolored is vital.
  3. Software Update/Reset: A Mercedes-Benz dealership or specialist can check for available software updates for your TCU and perform an adaptation reset, which can sometimes resolve minor shifting anomalies.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately if the problem worsens, becomes constant, or if you notice any new warning lights on the dashboard.
  • If diagnostic scanning reveals specific transmission fault codes (P07xx series).
  • For a professional transmission fluid level and condition check, as this requires specialized knowledge and tools.
  • If a software update or adaptation reset doesn't resolve the issue, as it may indicate a deeper mechanical problem within the valve body or other internal components that require expert diagnosis and repair.
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