When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Have them check you EGR valve. My 04 E320 did a similar thing and after 3 or 4 visits to the dealer, they found the EGR valve wasn't operating well. Now, it's been perfect.
thanks! you know, i bet that's it.. will tell the service department.. i owe you a beer if that resolves the problem.