Two weeks ago, I noticed some problems in shifting while driving my Mercedes Benz 450SEL. So, I topped up the transmission fluid. When I was replenishing it, the fluid was all over the floor. Therefore, I'm positive that there is a leak; I just have to confirm where it is coming from. Do you have any ideas on how to fix this?

Transmission leaks are commonly caused by a damaged or loose pan gasket or worn out fluid lines and seals. The leak can also come from a faulty torque converter. To fix your leakage problem, you must first identify the source of the leak. A great way to do that is to use a transmission fluid dye. This dye will make the fluid glow and will help you determine where the leak is coming from. You would also need a UV light flashlight for this task. First, top up the reservoir again and add 1 oz. of the dye into the fluid. Start your car and drive and wait for the fluid to start leaking. Come back and check with your UV light and find the flowing leak. Once you have seen the source, determine if the problem can be fixed or have to undergo expert repair. Loose pans and fluid lines are relatively simple to fix. However, if you notice that the amount of leak is already too large and that you cannot fix the problem, then you better take your 450SEL to the repair shop.

For the past three months, my Mercedes Benz 450SEL has suffered from two instances of overheating while in the middle of traffic. I have checked the coolant and the amount is still okay and is not leaking. What are the other possible causes, and how do I prevent engine overheating?

Aside from the coolant being too low, other causes of overheating are a damaged fan belt, a faulty thermostat or a broken radiator. It could also be that the car's internal fan is not working properly. Therefore, check all of these and determine whether parts need to be fixed or replaced. If you have time and money to spare, take your car to the mechanic. Also, using the brakes too much can also cause engine to work harder and overheat. Keep this in mind and aim to always drive at a steady pace. Always keep a bottle of spare coolant in the car just in case; but never open the radiator cap while the engine is still hot.

I recently purchased my Mercedes Benz 450SEL from a used car shop. Following the suggestion of a local mechanic, I changed the serpentine and timing belts since the original ones were already badly worn out. What should I remember to keep the belts preserved and intact for the years ahead?

It is good that you have decided to replace the belts. The serpentine belt, in particular, runs through different parts of the engine and is responsible for powering the power steering, the air conditioner, the alternator and the power steering pump. These car engine parts are integrated to each other and everything works as a whole. Thus, giving due regular maintenance to all the engine systems will also contribute in preserving the good condition of your new belts. Also make sure that the belts are properly placed and not misaligned, since slips like this can cause unnecessary stress on the rubber. Though a lot of people use it to quiet squeaky belts, belt dressing solutions are not really recommended. Belt dressing solutions comes in oils or solvents that lubricate and eliminate squeaking belts. However, once it dries out the rubber may actually become more susceptible to cracking.

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