First introduced in 2004, the Mercedes 722.9 transmission is a 7-speed automatic that was used in nearly the entire range of Mercedes Benz models. The 722.9 7G Tronic transmission was quite revolutionary in its day. However 722.9 conductor plate problems and 722.9 TCM problems have begun to plague many owners. So let’s take a closer look at these 7G Tronic conductor plate problems and figure out what you can do about them.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Looking for a 722.9 conductor plate? Visit Street Smart Transmission who sells the 722.9 plate and valve body.
Mercedes 722.9 transmission
The Mercedes 722.9 7G Tronic transmission has seven forward gears and two reverse gears, which are made possible by two planetary gear sets and a Ravigneaux gearset that essentially combines multiple planetary gearsets into a single unit. Four multi-disc brakes and three multi-disc clutches are used to control the gears. Mercedes 7G Tronic conductor plate problems and 7G Tronic TCM problems prevent the computer from controlling these gears as it needs to, which can result in a number of symptoms. These include:
- Noticeably delayed shifts
- Extremely harsh upshifts and downshifts
- Failed gear engagement
- Limp mode (the transmission gets locked into a single forward gear to prevent further damage to the transmission)
What is a Mercedes 722.9 conductor plate and 722.9 TCM?
The Mercedes 722.9 conductor plate, sometimes referred to as the 722.9 VGS, is mounted to the valve body inside of the transmission, and it contains the transmission control module, which has the speed sensors integrated into the top of the 7G Tronic TCM. The speed sensors then monitor the rotational speed of the transmission input shaft, so that the computer knows how fast the vehicle is going. This data helps it to determine when to shift gears, and relays these commands to the eight 722.9 solenoids which are mounted in the conductor plate itself. Because of the complicated electronic controls, each 722.9 conductor plate must be programmed to work with the vehicle is being installed in. Mercedes Benz won’t sell you a brand-new 722.9 conductor plate and TCM unless you are an authorized Mercedes dealer. However you can buy a rebuilt 722.9 conductor plate for considerably less money.
What causes Mercedes 722.9 conductor plate and 722.9 TCM problems?
Because the speed sensors are integrated into the 7G Tronic TCM, the entire unit has to be replaced or rebuilt when one of them fails. The information that the sensors provide, allows the TCM to determine the exact slippage of the torque converter so it can provide a smooth gear change. But when the TCM or 722.9 speed sensors begin to fail, the transmission operation will become harsh and erratic. If the 722.9 VGS problems are not addressed immediately, the computer will put the transmission into Limp Mode, which restricts it to a single forward gear (2nd) to prevent damage to other transmission parts.
Common Mercedes Conductor Plate Fault Codes
- 0717 – The signal from the Y3/8N1 turbine speed sensor is not available
- 0718 – The Y3/8N1 turbine speed sensor is defective
- 2201 – The Y3/8N2 internal speed sensor is defective
- 0722 – The Y3/8N3 output speed sensor is not available
- 0721 – The transmission output speed signal is implausible when compared to the wheel RPM signal
- 2766 – Excessive RPMs have occurred at the Y3/8N2 internal speed sensor
- 2767 – The signal from the Y3/8N2 output speed sensor is not available
- 2768 – The signal from the Y3/8N2 internal speed sensor is defective
Replacing a Mercedes 722.9 Conductor Plate
Before you buy a Mercedes 722.9 conductor plate, it’s important that you get the correct version. They actually made three: Mercedes VGS1 was typically used on vehicles that were made between 2004-2007. The Mercedes VGS2 and Mercedes VGS3 versions were used on later models. Each 7G Tronic TCM conductor plate is engraved with a number that will tell you which version you have. However, the Mercedes TCM programmed to only work with your specific vehicle’s ECU and immobilizer system. This means that you cannot buy a used 722.9 TCM conductor plate from a junkyard and expect it to work. Your only option is to buy a brand-new one from a local Mercedes dealer, or have your existing conductor plate rebuilt by a reputable company.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Looking for a 722.9 conductor plate? Visit Street Smart Transmission who sells the 722.9 plate and valve body.
