Revamping the 2002 C220 CDI Coupe's Gearbox Fluid Level

[PeakyOtter]

Salutations everyone,
My trusty 2002 Citroën C220 CDi Sports Coupe automatic has seen more than 280K miles, even though I put just about 4,000 miles on it annually these days. Thanks to your assistance, the vehicle has been dependable and has had a low operating cost.


It wasn't long ago that the engine would rev under light to moderate load with only partially engaged gears before re-engaging. Despite pushing the dipstick all the way down, I can't see any fluid on the end of the aftermarket one I used to check the gearbox fluid level, and no warning warnings have shown up either.

Evidently, there is gearbox fluid in there, but I must replenish it immediately. My intention is to add 200 ml at a time and then wait to see how it looks before adding more. I don't know how to tell if there's enough because my dipstick doesn't have any levels on it. How many centimetres (or inches) from the dipstick's tip would be sufficient?

I would really appreciate any prompt guidance.
Even though I'm not usually one to brag about my abilities, I've dropped everything to focus on this because it appears to be incredibly fundamental.

PS. The gearbox fluid has been changed at least once, but considering the car's age, it would likely be too expensive to do it again.

Tks

[DaisyDrift]

There is typically a predetermined order to inspect the levels in an automatic gearbox, such as checking the temperature and manually shifting gears. If you know someone who is experienced with this model, they can provide advice.

[DaisyDrift]

So, you're not "big on skills," huh? Is it possible to remove the current fluid using the drain plug? Just because...

[DaisyDrift]

There are two advantages if a drain plug is available. Before you add new oil, remove the old, worn-out fluid. Then, use the torque converter volume as a reference to determine the fill quantity. But that's only true if the drain is plugged in.

[PeakyOtter]

Thanks for getting back to me.
I just realised that in order to check the level, I need to follow the specified order.
On top of that, I've seen a tiny leakage on the ground. It seems like it might be coming from about the area where I assume the gearbox is.


I need to obtain a quote because my skills aren't adequate to the task of emptying the present fluid.

[DaisyDrift]

That isn't the hard part. Instructions will accompany any info that deals with checking the level - handbook?

[DaisyDrift]

Where is the missing oil? That's the query that came to mind. I guess it depends on how bad the leak is if it needs fixing.

[DaisyDrift]

A creeping mission! There will be a complete fluid change and the cost that goes along with it. You should rethink the first idea if the leak isn't severe and if you don't have a lot of emotional investment in the car. Simply add more and watch the results unfold. Note that the initial fluid loss could be substantial if the fluid is draining or leaking to the level of the leak. If you had half a litre of fluid and a plastic funnel, you'd be able to tell which way to jump.

[PeakyOtter]

Your reasoning is sound. 🙂
Until I went searching, I didn't see the leak because it isn't bad.
It seems like MB 236.14 is the gearbox fluid I require, therefore I'm looking into it right now.
 

[Lemmand]

The electrical socket that protrudes from the side of the transmission—also known as a Pilot bush—is a popular location for leaks to occur.

Just one bolt and a wire connector that I can recall. They are affordable replacements. Verify that the gearbox oil is not wicking up along the wires that link to the TCU.


Transmission fluid levels should be checked at 85 degrees Celsius.

[Lemmand]

https://mercedesgenuineparts.co.uk/products/a2035400253-pilot-bushing

[BrambleBurt]

A complete flush kit that I bought from Mercedes on eBay recently freed my C220 from being mired in second gear and rendering the vehicle useless.

All new parts, including seals, plug, contact plate, and 5 litres of genuine ATF, came to around £75.


Since my garage took care of the flush, everything has been great. I would suggest trying it out with a smaller sum first.

[PeakyOtter]

Salutations everyone, Your advice, recommendations, and words of encouragement have been invaluable.

Even though I followed the specified procedure for monitoring the level, the fluid was barely visible on the dipstick, so I may have narrowly avoided disaster. After adding 300 millilitres, I removed it, and the auto shifting became much faster; the initial problem did not return.


Once again, I am grateful!

[PeakyOtter]

Amazing worth. Fantastic!