How to Check Mercedes Automatic Transmission Fluid Level (722.6) - DIY Friendly

Kyle is here to show you a quick and easy way to check your fluid level in your 722.6 Mercedes Transmission. This would be the same procedure for all Automatic transmissions from 1996-2003. This transmission was also used on most V12 models as late as 2014, Mercedes Sprinter vans, the Chrysler Crossfire, supercharged Jaguars, and late model Jeep Wranglers.

Originally touted as the “maintenance free” transmission, the 5-speed automatic that began appearing in the late 1990s was an excellent and versatile gearbox. This transmission never included a dipstick but rather a locking cap on the dipstick tube that deterred the average car owner. The “maintenance free” title of this transmission was really a misnomer as the manufacturer eventually recommended servicing it every 40,000 miles. Despite its quirks, it performed well behind everything from four to twelve cylinder engines.



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[jamesbannon]

If it's "sealed for life", why is there a special tool for measuring the level? Just another case of a manufacturer blocking access to an ordinary service item.

[TheLadiesrmyhabit]

I knew nothing about this dipstick and have owned multiple Mercedes. I have always taken them in for servicing at the allotted time. I respect straight to the point videos. It shouldn't take a 20 minute video telling you how to perform a 2 minute process...thanks, very helpful!!

[dilipdalal]

YOU FORGOT TO MENTION KEEP THE ENGINE RUNNING WHILE CHECKING OIL LEVEL.

[jmreire]

When checking my MB 722.6 5 speed auto transmission, I drive the car for minimum 15-20 mins to make sure that the transmission oil has reached 80c temperature. Then remove the cap on the dipstick tube, and with the engine still running, handbrake on, and the selector in "PARK" insert the flexible dipstick until it bottoms out. Because it can bend a bit, I retract it and push it up and down a bit until I find the point just before it bends. Put a mark or a piece of tape on the dipstick at the top of the dipstick tube ( I put a grommet on mine, so it cannot go past the correct setting ) Then dip the trans, It should be midway between the two marks at the 80c level. If you need to add (or replace ) do so in maximum 100 or 200 ML. If you insert something else into the dipstick tube which will not "bend" at the bottom ( as the professional one does ) then your reading @ 80c engine running etc. should be 6 CMs, It would have helped if it was shown in the video, the actual qty of oil on the dipstick in the demonstration...

[mattblackman]

Thanks so much. My Low Range light came on and stayed on so that my ML-320 was stuck with a max speed of 60kph. Followed your instructions and realized my ATF level was quite low. Added fluid as per your instructions and voila - Low Range is now working normally again (fingers crossed)...
Getting the dipstick down to the correct position is a bit tricky. As per FCP Euro - "The dipstick tool needs to hit the bottom of the pan. The amount it protrudes above varies by application. If the tool stops, and you pull it out and there is no fluid on the stick you have not reached the bottom of the pan. If you put too much pressure on the tool you will risk breaking the plastic tip and then you will need to drop the pan to fish it out."

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[sannyskysr]

You should have mentioned specifically if the engine is running before you inserted the dipstick. I know there's a sound of engine running but it could be from other vehicles in the shop.

[__WJK__]

Appreciate the info, had no idea Mercedes Sprinter Transmissions require a separate dipstick tool, which imho is pretty lame, but I digress...

To Recap...

1) Locate transmission tube & remove locking/snap-on access cap.
2) Insert "special" transmission dipstick tool until dipstick hits bottom of transmission pan.
3) Remove dipstick & check correct level indicator for COLD or HOT transmission.
4) If fluid is low, add small amounts until full, do not overfill.
5) Replace transmission tube access cap.

[AustinTillison]

great video! thank you. i was afraid I ordered the wrong dipstick but now I know it's supposed to extend longer than the tube. cheers!

[morsonpoppett]

Thank you, that helped an old man out, I am 70 and nothing is like it use to be.

[thomash]

Hi. I can hear an engine running and I’m assuming it’s the one you’re checking. Is it essential to check with the engine running? I have read another comment here that seems to imply it’s obvious that the engine has to be running and the that what ‘normal operating temperature’ means. I had never understood until now that this temperature is taken with the engine running because the reflex we have probably comes from taking the engine oil level, which must be taken a certain time AFTER switching the engine off to allow the oil to run down into the pan.
I do think it would have been useful to specify explicitly that the engine must be running…

[LeonardoZZZ]

No mention that the engine must be running when checking the level ?

[kubarubin]

Hi guys,
Can you tell how many millimeters of transmission fluid is the correct amount/ depth? preferably for the operating temperature.
Thanks!

[mrmuhtish]

As always, informative, straight to the point, clear communication and good audio. Keep the great work up!

[xueupof]

Is it necessary for ATF level to be at the max mark of the 80 degree band, or its okay for it to be between the min and max marks?

[A.Musa]

I been trying to figure out how to use that dip stick for years. I was confuse why the dip stick was to dam long, haha. I was not sure if I was getting a correct reading or not.

[kbikerider]

Thank you Kyle for a good video. Right to the point.

[enxhikoraqe]

Where can i check mine I have a W211 E350 2007 Japanese version but it doesn’t have any dipstick to check the level of transmission fluid

[brianhartman]

Can you add fluid to the dipstick tube? Also, is this related to the CLK550?

[capedoryus]

Hello, thanks for the video. Nice. Would checking the level with the stick cause a limp mode if when checking the fluid was low? Engine was running and I was trying to add fluid after a fluid change by using the stick. I spilled an unknown quanity mid fill so had to rely on the stick for measurement. Also changed electric plug. Any help is appreciated. I did buy the parts through FCP. Your free shipping is so much better than the other MB supplier. Your shipment never sat and was delivered without delay. Thanks

[niecylee]

I bought the tool, How far to I put it down in there ? It will stop at a point but then if you put a bit of pressure it will go further . About how many inches of the dip stick tool should be inserted to get the reading ? Thanks