Hey George==If it is full of fluid, the clutched inside are brobably burned. GoodluckJoe
Currently, most automobile automatic transmissions electrically controlled, hydraulically actuated, planetary-geared transmissions.
The electrical components processes inputs, like engine speed, road speed and throttle position to select an appropriate reduction gear-set for given situation. This system then regulates circuits of pressurized fluid which act upon 'so-called' clutch packs. These clutch packs are what mechanically connect the input [engine] power through the various reductions and ultimately to the wheels. To achieve different gear reductions, some will engage, while others disengage from the gear-set. A pump, driven at the input portion of the transmission provides fluid pressure to press the clutches into position.
Slippage (the clutches not doing their job) can be caused by:
Low fluid level - The pump won't provide a large enough volume to supply everything at an appropriate pressure to fully engage clutch-packs. Slippage generates heat which reduces the viscosity of the Transmission Fluid, thereby making it less effective in it's role as a coupling-agent of the clutches, in turn allowing more slippage, eventually causing excess wear of the clutch-faces.
Contaminated fluid - Water is terrible lubricant, excessive shavings indicate wear or damage and create more, and can eventually clog filters, passages and the pump.
Excessive fluid level - Causes cavitation.
Cavitation - Disrupts the pumps ability to provide pressure, as air is compressible.
Too much input power - The clamping force of the clutch-pack is overcome, generating excessive friction.
check your transmission fluid, if it is low it will slip
does the speedometer effect the transmission
overheating of the fluid. This causes the transmission to slip. Slipping causes damage as friction material wears out quickly and even more overheating. This eventually causes failure.
check the fluid levels. that's the only thing I can think of.
Low transmission fluid will cause this and also weak bands inside the transmission can cause this.
You might need transmission fluid !?!?
a blown transmission
Your transmission might slip on your ML320 because the transmission fluid is low or because the transmission is damaged. The most common cause of transmission slip is wearing of the transmission.
Try to replace the oil filter if the transmission is not engaging when it's cold.
The bands may be weak, it may be low on fluid.
bad linkage in shifting cable
If it's only when you attempt third gear the problem is in your transmission.