How to Deal with 13 Pin Connector Issues in Your Mercedes

As cars continue to evolve through technological advancements, the transmission systems are not being left behind. Automated transmissions have been adopted by nearly all vehicle manufacturers in the market. The Mercedes Benz is one such brand that has fully migrated to automated transmission systems. Considering the standards of engineering that go into the design and manufacture of the vehicles under the Mercedes brand, you might think that certain issues would not be an issue in these cars. An example of this is the 13 pin connector problem.

The 13 pin connector is the socket in which the wires connecting the different automated functions of the car are connected. This electrical connector is responsible for a number of functions, such as the different lights that indicate certain actions or improve visibility in certain conditions. This 13 pin connector has been notorious for failing and causing transmission fluid leaks. These leaks, if unchecked, can affect the wiring harness and cause further damage to other components including the control module of the transmission.

Causes of 13 Pin Connector Problems

The issues in the 13 pin connector are often the result of worn out o-rings. These rings are responsible for holding the pins securely in place. Over time, these rings become old and worn and are no longer able to hold the pins firmly. This can also contribute to transmission fluid leaks.

Another possible cause of 13 pin problems is the breakage of one or more pins in the ensemble. This breakage will cause the 13 pin connector to loosen up and create a possible transmission fluid leak that, needless to say, can further complicate the situation.

Signs of 13 Pin Connector Failure

When the 13 pin connector develops issues, the effects will immediately be felt in the car. The most common symptoms of this failure will be felt in the transmission system. Some of these early warning signs of this failure include:

• Rough shifting of gears due to the leaking of transmission fluid, causing the loss of pressure which in turn varies the transmission process, causing delays and hesitation in the process.
• If not corrected in time, the gears will completely stop shifting or only shift up to a certain gear and no more. In some instances, the car may also stall completely.
• The car may also switch into safe mode or limp mode and recommend that you take your car to a mechanic immediately through a warning message on your dashboard. While in safe mode, you’ll only be able to change gears up to a certain point, and anything higher may not be achievable at that point.

Trust the Professionals With Your Mercedes

Transmission issues can create unforeseen safety situations while driving, and this is why the car will go into limp mode when they sometimes occur. The same issues are often easily misdiagnosed, so preventing them from happening in the first place is better than having to deal with them at all. This is why it is highly recommended that you take your car in for regular servicing.

While this servicing may not stop the problems from coming up since wear and tear is inevitable, it may help you to spot warning signs as soon as possible. This will enable the mechanic to nip the problem right in the bud before it becomes a costly affair involving even more replacements of damaged parts. In addition, regular servicing will enable the mechanic to keep an eye out for the transmission fluid levels, which can easily prolong the life of the 13 pin connector.

Not only is it important to seek the help of a professional mechanic in the event that you notice any signs of 13 pin connector issues, but you should also be sure to enlist the services of a mechanic with experience in handling luxury brands, specifically the Mercedes. This will ensure that your car receives proper repairs and replacements using manufacturer recommended spares. In doing so, you will significantly reduce the chances of having to repair the 13 pin connector frequently, as that can be extremely costly.

With an exemplary service record and vast experience to match, Hayes European is your go to auto repair shop that caters to all your Mercedes’ needs. We are only a phone call away from Mercedes drivers in and around Santa Cruz, Aptos, Soquel, and Capitola, CA. We’ll be happy to come to your aid as soon as you give as a call.

* Mercedes Benz Business Class image credit goes to: Aleksandr Kondratov.