Just checked EPC data. The IC (part # A 210 540 56 47) is also for 1996 E320. However there is a footnote saying:

"As of ident. no A 117064, J 024802 except code 806. ALso installed in vehicle to A 117063, J 024801 with code 807"

My VIN ended with J017888. According to the footnote the IC can be used if my car has the code 807. What is this code 807 and where is it on the car?

I looked at the plaque in front of the engine block but saw no 807 there.

sending the IC out for repair was not the first option, because it is a daily driver. So I thought replacing it with a used one could work.

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1996 E320 since 1/16/08, 171K miles as of Feb 2011

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1989 300CE - R.I.P. Dec 29 2007
Other MBs (sold): 1992 300E-24 - 1979 350SLC - 1984 230E - 1990 300CE