A140 automatic gearbox

[kildair]

Hi,
My sister's A140 with 48k on the clock ran into problems today: the auto gearbox will not change out of first gear and the letter 'F' has appeared on the dashboard.
Now I had the same problem a long time ago on a Volvo240 (yup a 240!!!!) and the problem was a sticky valve in the gearbox.
I would be grateful if anyone has any thoughts on the potential diagnosis and if so the approximate costs.
Many thanks

 

[Alex Crow]

well, it needs plugging in to an appropriate diagnosis machine by an experienced mechanic first. but be sitting down before he tells you that it needs a £900 part!! equally it could be something simple, but the control unit is common to fail on these i am afraid. sorry.

 

[kildair]

oops.... that is going to really hurt my sister. I am not sure I want to be the one telling her!!!!! So if it is the control unit it would be £900?

 

[Alex Crow]

for the part yes, fitting and oil etc would raise that figure over the £1000 mark. HOWEVER you must realise that there are many possible causes of 'F' display, including gearstick modules and various other bits, so find a good independent MB garage and get it plugged in. where are you/your sister?