Compare Mercedes auto gearbox specialist repair quotes from specialist garages

In 1886, Karl Benz - the founder of Mercedes Benz - introduced what is often considered the first petrol-powered car to the world. The Benz Patent Motor Car was born, and with it began a legacy that continues today.

Style, luxury and innovation are the driving forces behind Mercedes. Not only was it one of the first car manufacturers to put brakes and suspension on all four wheels, but it was also the first to introduce safety crumple zones.

Cars by Mercedes have appeared on the big screen numerous times, from the S-Class used by Jason Statham in The Transporter to escape a gunfight to the 1969 280 SE Convertible driven by Hugh Grant in Bridget Jones's Diary.

See how Mercedes' maintenance costs compare with BMW's and Audi's here.

Automatic gearboxes use hydraulic power to change gears. A torque converter connects the engine to the transmission and uses pressurised fluid to transfer power to the gears. Because this system is more complex, there is more scope for it to develop problems, requiring an automatic gearbox repair.

Signs of a bad automatic gearbox include:

• Gears slipping
• The car won't respond or engage while in gear
• A burning smell
• Leaking fluid
• Grinding or shaking

The best way to stave off problems is to have an automatic gearbox service done regularly. This process involves draining the transmission fluid and replacing the filter, which can extend the life of your automatic gearbox.