Automatic Transmission - Mercedes-Benz SL SERIES Operator's Manual

Problem
The coolant tempera-
ture gauge shows a
value above 248 ‡
(120 †). The coolant
warning lamp may also
be on and a warning
tone may sound.

Automatic transmission

Important safety notes
G WARNING
If the engine speed is above the idling speed
and you engage transmission position D or R,
the vehicle could pull away suddenly. There is
a risk of an accident.
When engaging transmission position D or R,
always firmly depress the brake pedal and do
not simultaneously accelerate.
G WARNING
The automatic transmission switches to neu-
tral position N when you switch off the engine.
The vehicle may roll away. There is a risk of an
accident.
After switching off the engine, always switch
to parking position P. Prevent the parked vehi-
cle from rolling away by applying the parking
brake.
Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions
The coolant level is too low. The coolant is too hot and the engine
is no longer being cooled sufficiently.
Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and the coolant to
X
cool down.
Check the coolant level (
X
notes as you do so and add coolant if necessary.
If the coolant level is correct, the engine radiator fan may be faulty.
The coolant is too hot and the engine is no longer being cooled
sufficiently.
At coolant temperatures below 248 ‡ (120 †), drive to the
X
nearest qualified specialist workshop.
Avoid heavy loads on the engine as you do so, e.g. driving in
X
mountainous terrain and stop-and-go traffic.
Automatic transmission
page 539). Observe the warning
Y
Selector lever
Overview of transmission positions
! If the engine speed is too high or if the
vehicle is rolling, do not shift the transmis-
sion directly from D to R, from R to D or
directly to P.
Do not open the driver's door while the
vehicle is in motion. At low speeds in trans-
mission position D or R, park position P is
otherwise engaged automatically.
The transmission could be damaged.
Park position
j
Reverse gear
k
Neutral
i
Drive
h
159
Z