722.9 7G Tronic Automatic Transmission Problems and Solutions

The 722.9 automatic transmission by Mercedes-Benz is an electronically controlled gearbox with seven forward gears and two reverse gears. This article overviews the 722.9 automatic transmissions, common problems, troubleshooting tips, and frequently asked questions.

Advantages of Mercedes 7G Automatic Transmission

There are several advantages to having 7 gears. Here is a list of benefits of the Mercedes-Benz 7-Speed transmission over the previous generation’s 5-Speed transmission (722.6).

• Smoother shifting and driver comfort
• Quicker upshifts/downshifts
• Better acceleration times due to improved control of gear changes and available gear ratios.
• Improved fuel economy.
• Better matching of engine RPM and vehicle speed.

The transmission control unit in the 7G Tronic transmission monitors your driving style and adapts the transmission shift points based on the way you drive. For example, if you are an aggressive driver, you may notice that the transmission will stay in gear longer to allow the engine to reach higher RPMs.

The 7-Speed Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission is known as:

• 722.9xx Automatic Transmission
• NAG 2 (New Automatic Gearbox 2)
• 7G-Tronic (7G Tronic Plus since 2010)

One of the main differences between the 722.6 5-Speed and 722.9 7-Speed transmissions is that in the 7G Tronic, the Transmission Control Module (TCU) is integrated inside the transmission. The TCU is mounted on top of the valve body. While in the previous automatic transmission, the TCU was installed outside the transmission. By installing the TCU on top of the valve body, Mercedes could reduce the length of the wires between the valve body and the TCU.

 

As with the 5-speed transmission, the 7G Tronic has the S / C mode, meaning:

• S – Sport – Car Starts in 1St Gear
• C- Comfort – Starts in Second Gear

7G Tronic Transmission Problems – 722.9xxx

Below is a list of common problems with the Mercedes-Benz 722.9xx 7G Tronic 7-Speed Automatic Transmission.

This list is for reference only. Suppose you are experiencing problems with your Mercedes-Benz. In that case, reading the fault codes from the automatic transmission unit via the OBD-II port located under the dashboard is important. You will need a scanner that can read TCU fault codes on a Mercedes to do that. A good scanner to use is the YOUCANIC full system scanner. 

The 722.9 transmissions was installed in Mercedes-Benz models as early as 2004. By 2008 it replaced the 722.6 5-Speed transmissions on all MB models. This transmission has a few common issues, but most problems do not require a complete transmission overhaul. Replacing the defective solenoid, conductor plate, or valve body must be performed to fix most problems in the 7-Speed transmission.

This is a list of common problems with the 7-speed 722.9xx transmission:

• The transmission does not shift gears or work properly until it warms up.
• Delayed or unpredicted shifting of gears. Upgrading the TCU software and resetting the transmission shift points may solve this problem. You will need either the dealer or an auto repair shop that has Mercedes Star Diagnostic C3 or C4 scanner. 
• Transmission slips between 1st and 2nd gear. The transmission goes into limp mode as soon as the TCU detects this. Turning off and then off the engine may temporarily return the transmission to normal operation.
• The conductor plate is defective. Replacement is required, which can cost between $2000-$3000. The first generation of the 722.9 may also require the replacement of the valve body.
• Accelerating from a stop light can cause the car to get stuck in 2nd gear, limp mode.
• Standing water in contact with the housing can cause damage to the transmission housing if left in contact for several weeks.
• Hard shifting transmission problems.

Defective valve body or the conductor plate are usually the cause for these problems. 

7G Tronic Fault Codes

The most common fault codes of the 7 Speed Automatic Transmission are listed below.

• P0717 Input Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal
• P0718 Input / Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
• P0700 Transmission Control System TCS Malfunction
• P0748 Pressure Control Solenoid ‘A’ Electrical
• P0778 Pressure Control Solenoid ‘B’ Electrical
• P0798 Pressure Control Solenoid ‘C’ Electrical
• P2716 Pressure Control Solenoid “D” Electrical
• P2725 Pressure Control Solenoid (E)
• P2734 Pressure Control Solenoid ‘F’ Electrical
• P2810 P2759
• P0717 Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit No Signal
• U0101 – no communication with the TCM

This problem is usually fixed by replacing the conductor plate or the valve body, which depends on the VGS version. If a new TCU is installed, it will require programming to match the VIN of the vehicle.

Related Failure Codes

Error Code 0717 – The signal from component Y3 / 8n1 (turbine speed sensor (VGS)) is unavailable.
Error code 0718 – The component Y3 / 8n1 (turbine speed sensor (VGS)) is defective.
Error code 2767 – The signal from component Y3 / 8n2 (Internal speed sensor (VGS)) is unavailable.
Error code 2768 – The component Y3 / 8n2 (Internal speed sensor (VGS)) is defective.

How to diagnose 7G Tronic Problems

Check Transmission Oil Level

The 722.9 7G transmission has no oil dipstick. It doesn’t have a dipstick tube either; therefore, you will not be able to use the Mercedes 722.6 Transmission Fluid Dipstick Tool.

Checking the fluid requires raising the car and removing the drain plug from the transmission. You need to have a special tool to fill the Mercedes-Benz 722.9 transmission. The car needs to be level during this procedure. The transmission fluid needs to be at a particular temperature during this procedure.

The new 7G Tronic Plus transmission has new requirements for the automatic transmission fluid. You need to make sure that if you change the transmission fluid, you use the approved mercedes 722.9xx transmission fluid

Limp Mode

Whenever there is a problem with your transmission or certain sensors that send data to the TCU, the 7G Matic transmission goes into limp mode. During the LIMP HOME MODE operation, the transmission gets stuck in second gear, and then it refuses to change the gears. In second gear, you can reach up to 30 MPH speeds to take the car to your mechanic.

If your MB is stuck in second gear (limp mode), don’t panic. It can be something as simple as low transmission fluid. It could even be something not directly related to the transmission, such as a defective ABS sensor, brake light switch, or even a steering angle sensor. The automatic transmission in your Mercedes Benz is electronically controlled and depends on input from several sensors to work properly. Often all you need to do is read the trouble codes with adiagnostic scanner to find the cause of your transmission getting stuck in gear.

Rear Fault Codes

If the check engine light is on, use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the fault codes. Any Best Selling Diagnostic Scanners on Amazon can retrieve the OBD2 codes from any Mercedes after 1996. You can plug the scanner into the OBD-II port under the dash on the driver’s side. Look right above the brake pedal. Once you connect the scanner, press the READ button, and after a minute or two, you should have a trouble code such as P0715 or P0700.

You will need an advanced diagnostic scanner for those who would like to perform in-depth transmission troubleshooting. An OBD II / CAN Scanner that can read Transmission Contol Unit (TCU) fault codes. The scanners mentioned above can only read codes from the Engine Control Unit (ECU) which will have generic codes such as P0700, P0715, etc.

Very few scanners sold online will allow you to read codes from the TCU on a Mercedes-Benz. The YOUCANIC SCANNER is a professional scanner that can retrieve fault codes from the TCU and almost any system on your MB. Not only that, but it can perform programming and testing of sensors similar to Mercedes Star Diagnostic C3 or C4.

Conductor Plate / Valve Body

Changing the conductor plate or the valve body may sometimes be necessary. Depending on the VGS version (1, 2, or 3), you may need to replace both the valve body and the conductor plate. If you have VGS1, you must simultaneously replace the conductor plate and valve body. If you have VGS 2 or 3, you can replace the conductor plate and keep the original valve body. If the existing unit can not be repaired, the new TCU  will require SCN & CVN coding and can only be performed by the dealer or an authorized repair shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Mercedes 7G Tronics vs. 7G Tronic Plus?

The 7G Tronic Plus is the successor of the 7G Tronic transmission. It is supposed to help improve the fuel economy and provide smoother shifting. It provides zero slip at the torque converter lock-up clutch. A new transmission fluid was developed for the 7G Tronic Plus. ¹ 

The 7G Tronic Plus can work with Mercedes-Benz models equipped with start-stop engines. 7G Tronic was not able to support this feature.

7G Tronic Plus provides a better and quicker response from the gas pedal position and movement.

7G Tronic Plus requires a new transmission fluid, see here.

Which Mercedes-Benz models were the first to have the 7-Speed transmission?

The 7-Speed transmission was available in several Mercedes-Benz models as early as 2004. The 7G trans was available in the following chassis.

M-Class W164	2005
R-Class W251	2005
SLK-Class R171	2004
G-Class X164	2006
CLS 550	2005
E-Class E350	2004

It also replaced the 722.6 5-speed transmissions in the 4matic models by 2007.

Shift by wire

The previous generation MB had a rod that, every time you moved the gear selector the rod changed the gears from P to R, N, D. While that’s still the case in some MB models, don’t be surprised you don’t find a shift rod in the newer Mercedes-Benz cars. That’s because some models, such as the W251 and x164, are controlled by wire, not by a shift rod. When you move the shifter, no rod moves. Instead, a sensor in the shifter module detects your selected gear.

722.9 Skipping gears

Did you know that the 722.9 transmissions can skip gears during downshifting to match the engine RPMs with the vehicle speed? This is by normal operation. For example, the transmission can downshift from 7th to 3rd gear if you are cruising on the highway and suddenly slow down drastically.

Gear Ratios of the 722.9

Gear	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R-1	R-2	Final
7G TRONIC	4.377	2.859	1.921	1.368	1.00	.82	.728	-3.416	-2.231	application-specific

Mercedes-Benz models where a 722.9 7-speed transmission is used.

The 7G NAG2 transmission was initially installed on many models with M272 and M273 transmissions. It was later installed in all models, including 4matics, diesel, and rear-wheel drive models. In 2014 the 9-speed automatic transmission replaced the 722.9.

What is the Best Scanner to Diagnose Transmission Problems on my Mercedes-Benz?

The YOUCANIC full system diagnostic scanner is a powerful tool to help you troubleshoot Mercedes-Benz problems quickly and efficiently. This scanner can communicate with all the control units in your Mercedes-Benz, including the engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, and more. By accessing real-time data from these control units, you can pinpoint the root cause of the problem and take appropriate action to resolve it.

Whether you’re experiencing issues with your engine, transmission, or other systems in your Mercedes-Benz, the YOUCANIC diagnostic scanner can provide valuable insight into what’s going on under the hood. This scanner can help you identify error codes, read live data, and perform special functions like reset adaptations or component tests. With this information, you can make informed decisions about repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to keep your Mercedes-Benz running smoothly.

Overall, the YOUCANIC full system diagnostic scanner is invaluable for any Mercedes-Benz owner or technician looking to troubleshoot problems quickly and accurately. With its user-friendly interface and powerful diagnostic capabilities, you can save time, money, and frustration by diagnosing and resolving issues with your Mercedes-Benz quickly and efficiently.

Here is a list of models where you will find the 7G transmission. 

C-Class (model 203/204/205)
CL-Class (model 215/216)
CLK-class (Type 209)
CLS-class (Type 218/219)
E-class (Type 207/211/212)
G-class (Type 463)
GL-Class (model 166)
GLE-Class (Typ166)
M / ML-Class (model 164/166)
R-class (Type 251)
S-Class (Model 220/221/222)
SL-Class (model 230/231)
SLK-Class (model 171/172)
Sprinter (Type 906)
Viano / Vito (Type 447)

Resources and External Links

1. Evolution to the seven-speed automatic transmission 7G Tronic Plus. Source: European Transmissions
2. Preliminary Information on Mercedes-Benz 722.9 Transmission Source: ATSG
3. Introduction to Mercedes 722.9 Transmission Source:  ATRA 
4. VGS / NAG 2 7G Tronic – German Source: ECU.de
5. Mercedes-Benz 7G-Tronic transmission Source: Wikipedia