Thanks to all of you out there for your suggestions & support EXCEPT You HDDP! Your attitude sounds as if you are your mama's runt of the litter with all your petty sarcastic remarks about me & my driving. You either work for or have stock in D/C because your defense of this car is beyond reason. By the way, my other car is a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-230 Kompressor and the gear shift on that one hasn't fallen off yet. In fact, the only problem I have with this one is now the air conditioner is blowing hot air (SOUNDS LIKE YOU HDDP) & a part has to be sent to the dealer from Germany.
I repeat, the only reason I signed on to this forum is to find out if the gear problem exists with other owners. Other then that reason, I am happy with the vehicle and I only want it repaired to safety standards or give me another new one. I don't race cars but I'm an experienced driver with the right knowledge to know what to do in an emergency. This one little mishap & startled reaction shouldn't be construde as a person lacking in driving ability or a person looking to sue someone because of a mistake. I JUST WANT THE CAR FIXED OR REPLACED! Are there anymore gear problems I should hear about so I can bring them to the attention of D/C and the dealership?
Rich