I bought my 97 E300D in Dec 05. After searching the maintenance records, I found that the PO had the transmission serviced prior to selling. The Indy used Dex III, I have since changed back to MB fluid. There were about 20,000 miles on the Dex III. I dont know how the tranny shifted before the fluid change, but at 212,000 miles now, I am getting some flaring on 4-3 downshift, and when coasting it sometimes doesnt go back to 1st until almost completely stopped.
I am going to change fluid again in March.

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Dennis
2006 E320 CDI Black/Black Leather. Nav, HTD Seats HK stereo 32000 miles.
2000 VW Passat 1.8t 300,000 miles as of Dec 09, 2009 original owner
1997 E300d Silver 300,000 miles As of Jan 05, 2010
3rd owner SOLD