Used transmission control module — Mercedes C Class vs Kia Optima price comparison

Vehicle price comparison

Mercedes C Class vs Kia Optima Transmission Control Module prices

How do used transmission control module prices compare? Mercedes C Class has the lower median by $10 (9%). Both figures are part-only asking-price summaries; confirm VIN fitment, condition, warranty, and shipping before buying.
SKWritten bySaurabh Kumar · Co-Founder & CTO
ASReviewed byAmbika Sharma · Co-Founder & COO

Price face-off

Mercedes C Class$100$18 – $59517,328 listingsLower price
VS$10difference
Kia Optima$110$32 – $4505,610 listings

Median price comparison

Mercedes C Class$100
Kia Optima$110
Mercedes C ClassMetricKia Optima
$18Low$32
$100Median$110
$595High$450
17,328Listings5,610

Condition comparison

How does the price differ by part grade?

Mercedes C ClassGradeKia Optima
$10615,121 listings
AExcellent
$1104,330 listings
$101843 listings
BGood
$120961 listings
$7557 listings
CFair
$7553 listings

Market analysis

Why does the Kia Optima transmission control module cost more?

A used Kia Optima transmission control module carries a median asking price of $110, which is 9% higher than the Mercedes C Class at $100. Supply also plays a role: Mercedes C Class has 17,328 priced listings versus 5,610 for Kia Optima, and more listings generally mean more choices and more competitive pricing.

The Mercedes C Class average ($121) runs 21% above its median ($100), indicating a tail of high-priced listings — likely low-mileage or remanufactured units pulling the average up.

Our guide covers 11 model years for the Mercedes C Class (2015–2025) but only 6 for the Kia Optima (2015–2020), so the Mercedes C Class data reflects a broader range of generations.

Only 65% of Kia Optima transmission control module listings include a posted price (5,610 of 8,638 observed) — the rest are "call for price," which usually signals negotiable or higher-than-average pricing.

The Mercedes C Class transmission control module is interchangeable across 17 model years versus just 10 for the Kia Optima — that wider compatibility window means more donor vehicles in salvage yards and tends to push prices lower.

Buyer's checklist

What to check before buying a used transmission control module

  • Match OEM hardware and software part numbers exactly, as shift schedules and solenoid driving algorithms differ between gear ratios and engine sizes.
  • Determine if the module is standalone, integrated into the PCM/ECM, or mounted internally on the transmission valve body (mechatronic unit).
  • Check if the module requires VIN programming, clutch adaptation relearns, or flash updating before normal gear engagement will occur.
  • Inspect connector pins for fluid wicking; leaky transmission harness seals can force transmission fluid up into the TCM connector plug pins.

Common questions

Mercedes C Class vs Kia Optima transmission control module FAQ

Is a used Mercedes C Class transmission control module cheaper than a Kia Optima?

Mercedes C Class has the lower median by $10 (9%). The Mercedes C Class transmission control module ranges from $18 to $595 across 17,328 listings, while the Kia Optima ranges from $32 to $450 across 5,610 listings.

Can I use a Mercedes C Class transmission control module in a Kia Optima?

This comparison describes pricing, not interchangeability. Even when two parts share similar prices, they may require different engines, trims, electronics, or mounting points. Always match the seller's part number against your VIN before purchasing.

How many listings does this comparison cover?

This comparison draws from 17,328 priced Mercedes C Class listings and 5,610 priced Kia Optima listings — 22,938 in total.

How does condition grade affect the price?

Part condition significantly impacts price. Grade A (Excellent): Mercedes C Class $106 vs Kia Optima $110. Grade B (Good): Mercedes C Class $101 vs Kia Optima $120. Grade C (Fair): Mercedes C Class $75 vs Kia Optima $75. Grade A parts are in excellent condition, B is good, and C is fair — always confirm grading criteria with the seller.

Are there different trim variants to choose from?

Yes. The Mercedes C Class transmission control module has 2 trim variants and the Kia Optima has 35. Variants differ by engine size, drivetrain, or part number — matching the right variant is critical for proper fitment.

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Mercedes C Class vs Kia Optima Transmission Control Module — $100 vs $110