In this detailed step‑by‑step DIY guide, learn how to service the 722.9 7‑speed Plus transmission (A89 code) found in the 2010–2014 Mercedes C63 AMG, which uses blue ATF fluid meeting MB 236.15 specification.

???? What You’ll Need:

Transmission service kit specific to 722.9 Plus / A89 (includes filter, pan gasket, drain plug & washers, torque converter drain plug)

Approx. 6 to 7 litres of blue‑tinted ATF fluid (MB 236.15, aka ATF134FE)

Infrared thermometer or scanner to test fluid temp

Fluid pump or pan adapter for correct fill procedure

T30 Torx socket, 5 mm hex bit, torque wrench

Jack stands or lift, drain pan, gloves

???? Step‑by‑Step Procedure:

Prep & Safety: Warm up the car to operating temperature, then lift it safely using jack stands or a lift. Ensure the vehicle is level to guarantee accurate fluid level during refill.

Drain Fluid: Remove the torque converter drain plug first (if fitted). Then remove the transmission pan drain plug to allow the bulk of the old ATF (~5 L) to drain.

Remove Pan & Filter: Loosen and remove six T30 Torx screws, drop the pan carefully. Inspect magnets for metal debris. Remove and replace the transmission fluid filter with the upgrade kit model for A89 transmission.

Clean & Reassemble: Clean pan and mating surfaces. Install new gasket and torque bolts to factory spec (~10 ft‑lbs). Reinstall drain plug with new copper washer (torque ≈ 25 ft‑lbs).

Refill Transmission: Remove filler tube cap and lock clip. Using a fluid pump or fill‑tool, add ATF gradually while monitoring fluid level and temperature with a non‑contact thermometer. Stop filling when fluid level stabilizes at 35–45 °C.

Final Steps: Reinstall cap and clip. Start engine, cycle through gears to circulate fluid. Recheck level at working temperature. Test drive and recheck for leaks or transmission shifts.

???? Service Interval Tips:

Mercedes originally touted "lifetime" fluid fill, but experience shows the fluid additive package degrades over time—recommend replacement every 50,000–60,000 miles (~80,000 km) for blue‑fluid A89 transmissions.

Blue fluid variant intervals (after mid‑2010 A89) are longer than older red‑fluid models (~70k miles), but periodic change still extends transmission life.

✅ Quick Tips & Common Pitfalls:

Confirm that your vehicle has the A89 transmission and blue‑tinted fluid. Some early 2010/2011 may still be red fluid (MB 236.14) without A89 code. Mixing fluids can lead to shifting issues or wear.

BB00.40-P-0236-15A Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF, Sheet 236.15)

Transmission 722.9

7-speed automatic transmission 722.9 up to transmission production date June 21 2010
Use only the transmission oil outlined in specification sheet 236.14a

7-speed automatic transmission 722.9 after transmission production date June 21 2010
Use only the transmission oil outlined in specification sheet 236.15

Recognizable on green overflow pipe and oval forming on oil pan. See also SI00.40-P-0014A

Note: the 2 different variants of 722.9 transmission oil are not compatible with one another and can not be mixed. The later oil can be identified by its blue color as opposed to the former oil which is red in color.

Fuchs .................... Titan ATF 7134 FE
MB 236.15 ATF .................... A 001 989 77 03
MB 236.15 ATF .................... A 001 989 78 03
MB Automatic transmission fluid .................... MB 236.15
Shell .................... ATF 134FE
Shell .................... Spirax S6 ATF 134ME

Use new copper washers and pan bolts, and torque them correctly. Re‑using parts or over‑torquing can cause leaks or stripped threads.

Monitoring fluid temperature during fill and level checks is crucial—over‑ or under‑filling can impact gearbox performance.

Some transmissions may require additional purging of torque converter fluid. If no drain plug exists, alternative methods or multiple drain-and-fill cycles may be necessary.

????‍???? Additional Resources:

How to Service Mercedes 722.9 Transmission by yourself – (MB 236.15 blue fluid, includes parts & torque specs)

Revive My Ride: Full Mercedes 722.9 transmission oil and filter change including torque converter fluid and level check procedure at 45 °C

???? Enjoy maintaining your C63 AMG's transmission! Be sure to double‑check fluid code, use proper tools, and take safety precautions. If you're uncertain, consult a certified Mercedes technician.