I am in the final stages of servicing a newly-acquired 2000 CLK430 (40,000Mi.) and am now up to the automatic transmission. Mercedes says it "requires no service" but, after I pressed them on the issue, agreed to drain and refill the fluid and replace the filter for $269. Seems awfully high to me.

A local, reputable shop has recommended I have them perform a "transmisssion flush". In this procedure, the pan isn't dropped at all, but lines are connected to the trans and a chemical solution is circulated to flush out contaminents.The filter is not changed, which is a major concern to me.Of course, if the system is reverse-flushed (they weren't sure about this), then it might make sense.

Needless to say, I'm pretty skeptical, but the service manager is an ex-Mercedes guy and also was a transmission mechanic earlier in his career. I have good experience with this shop in the past, but this is a new level for me. I know this procedure has been around for a number of years, but have never met anyone who has used it.

Anyone out there have any experience with this?

Thanks.
Frank