Below are the step-by-step instructions for changing the transmission fluid in a 2003 CLK 430 Mercedes-Benz:
Materials:
- 7 quarts of Mercedes-Benz ATF 134 FE transmission fluid
- New oil filter kit
- Oil pan gasket
- Funnel
- Wrench
- Jack
- Jack stands
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
- Park the vehicle on a level surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Turn the engine off and allow it to cool down.
- Jack up the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Step 2: Locate the Transmission Drain Plug
- The transmission drain plug is located on the underside of the transmission oil pan.
- Clean the area around the drain plug to prevent dirt and debris from entering the transmission.
- Place an oil drain pan under the drain plug.
Step 3: Remove the Drain Plug and Drain the Oil
- Use a wrench to loosen the transmission pan bolts and remove the drain plug.
- Allow the old transmission oil to drain completely.
Step 4: Replace the Drain Plug
- Once the old transmission oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.
Step 5: Remove the Oil Pan
- Clean the area around the oil pan gasket.
- Use a wrench to loosen the oil pan bolts and remove the oil pan.
- Be careful not to spill any remaining transmission oil.
Step 6: Replace the Oil Filter
- The oil filter is located inside the oil pan.
- Remove the old oil filter and install the new one.
- Hand-tighten the oil filter until it is snug.
Step 7: Clean the Oil Pan and Install the New Gasket
- Clean the oil pan and gasket surface with a solvent to remove any old gasket material.
- Install the new oil pan gasket.
Step 8: Reinstall the Oil Pan
- Reinstall the oil pan and tighten the bolts securely.
Step 9: Add New Transmission Oil
- Use a funnel to add new transmission oil to the transmission.
- Add 7 quarts of Mercedes-Benz ATF 134 FE transmission fluid.
Step 10: Check the Transmission Oil Level
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick.
- The fluid level should be between the "full" and "add" marks on the dipstick.
Step 11: Lower the Vehicle
- Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Step 12: Test Drive
- Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the transmission is shifting properly.
