Engine Code

Mercedes-Benz Engine Codes Database

Complete Mercedes-Benz Engines Database (1926–2026)

engine-0engine-1engine-2

Covers Mercedes-Benz petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines used across UK and European models - from early M-series engines to modern turbocharged BlueDIRECT and BlueTEC units. Each engine code includes specifications, compatible vehicles, and emissions data, sourced from official Mercedes-Benz and EU records.

Engine Variants
Models Covered
of Engineering
Compliance Data

Data sourced from Mercedes-Benz Group Technical Documentation, EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, and Mercedes-Benz Workshop Information System (WIS).

Browse Mercedes-Benz Engine Codes Database

Find Mercedes-Benz engine codes by family, model, or generation

Engine reference image
Engine CodeFuel TypeSeries
Petrol119985 50
DieselA-Series
PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
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PetrolM-Series
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PetrolM-Series
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PetrolM-Series
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PetrolM-Series
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PetrolM-Series
PetrolM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
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DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
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DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
DieselOM-Series
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Mercedes-Benz Engines Used by Third Parties

See where Mercedes-Benz power drives other leading brands.

EV & Hybrid Engines

Explore Mercedes-Benz's electrified powertrain technologies.

Engine specifications and technical data sourced from Mercedes-Benz Group Technical Documentation and EU Vehicle Type Approval Database. All specifications are verified against official Mercedes-Benz service documentation.

How to Find Your Mercedes-Benz Engine Code

The engine code is essential for ordering parts, diagnosing issues, and verifying compatibility. It is not the same as the VIN or chassis number. This guide shows exactly where to find it - by model and engine type - using official Mercedes-Benz and DVLA sources

Engine Code

Engine Code

A unique identifier (e.g., OM651, M276) stamped on the engine block used for parts and service.

VIN

VIN

The 17-digit vehicle identification number that holds encoded vehicle and engine information.

Chassis Number

Chassis Number

The chassis or frame number (W205, W213, etc.) used for registration and legal identification.

Mercedes C-Class (W205, 2014–2021)

Mercedes C-Class (W205, 2014–2021)

OM651 Engine

Locate the engine code on the engine block, typically on a flat pad near the cylinder head on the right-hand side when facing the engine. The code is stamped into the metal and reads 'OM651' followed by variant numbers.

Mercedes E-Class (W213, 2016–Present)

Mercedes E-Class (W213, 2016–Present)

M276 Engine

The engine code is located on the left rear of the engine block when facing it. Look for a stamped identification number on the flange at the top of the block, behind the cylinder head end.

Mercedes GLC (X253, 2015–Present)

Mercedes GLC (X253, 2015–Present)

OM654 or M274

Open the bonnet and check the engine block on the passenger side. The code is stamped on a flat surface near the engine mount. Diesel models show 'OM654'; petrol models display 'M274'.

Mercedes S-Class (W222, 2013–2020)

Mercedes S-Class (W222, 2013–2020)

M278 Engine

The engine code is cast into the engine block on the right-hand side, visible from above. Look for 'M278' followed by displacement and variant codes near the camshaft cover.

Engine code locations per Mercedes-Benz Workshop Information System (WIS). V5C field definitions from DVLA Guide to Vehicle Registration. VIN structure compliant with EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Article 7.

Mercedes-Benz Engine Technology Specifications and Reliability Data

A technical breakdown of Mercedes-Benz's core engine systems including BlueDIRECT, BlueTEC, CDI common rail, and EQ Boost with documented reliability impacts. All data sourced from Mercedes-Benz Group Technical Documentation and EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Overview

Mercedes-Benz's BlueDIRECT technology combines third-generation direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion, multiple injection, and multi-spark ignition for optimal efficiency and performance.

How it Works

Piezoelectric injectors deliver fuel directly into the combustion chamber with precise timing and pressure up to 200 bar. The spray-guided system creates a stratified charge for lean-burn operation, while multi-spark ignition ensures complete combustion.

BlueDIRECT injection system
Evolution
BlueDIRECT Gen 1

M271 (2009)

First implementation

BlueDIRECT Gen 2

M276 (2011)

Improved spray guidance

BlueDIRECT Gen 3

M274 (2013)

Piezo injectors, multi-spark

Sources
Mercedes-Benz WIS Document on BlueDIRECT Technology
Mercedes-Benz Group Product Technical Reports 2023
Affected Engines
M271M274M276M278M157
COMMON ISSUES
  • Carbon buildup

    Intake valves, especially M274

  • HPFP failures

    High-pressure fuel pump wear

  • Injector clogging

    Piezo injector deposits

BMW Engine Evolution Timeline 1970–2026

Track BMW engineering across decades

1970s

V8 introduction and diesel turbocharging pioneers.

Engine
M116Petrol
1969–1991
W111, W108, R107

3.5–4.5L V8 petrol. Mercedes-Benz's first production V8. Smooth power for luxury coupes and sedans.

M123Petrol
1976–1985
W123 230, 280

2.0–2.8L inline-six petrol. Legendary W123 E-Class predecessor engine. Renowned for durability and longevity.

OM617Diesel
1974–1991
W123 300D

3.0L inline-five turbo diesel. First turbo diesel in a passenger car. Exceptional reliability, often exceeding 500,000 miles.

Engine production years verified via Mercedes-Benz Group Production Reports and EU type-approval records

Mercedes-Benz Engine Production Facts, Manufacturing Output and Partnerships

Authoritative data on Mercedes-Benz's global engine production, plant operations, and strategic partnerships. All figures sourced from Mercedes-Benz Group Annual Reports, Sustainability Reports, and EU industrial compliance records.

Major Engine Production Plants

Mercedes-Benz manufactures engines at multiple facilities worldwide, each specializing in specific families.

Stuttgart-UntertΓΌrkheim Plant

πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺStuttgart-UntertΓΌrkheim Plant(Germany)

  • Largest Mercedes-Benz powertrain facility
  • Engines: M256, M276, M157, EQ electric drives
  • Capacity: ~600,000 powertrains annually (2023)
  • Doubling e-drive production capacity to 1 million units
Berlin Plant

πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺBerlin Plant(Germany)

  • Specializes in four-cylinder engines
  • Engines: M274, M264, OM654
  • Capacity: ~400,000 engines annually
  • CO2-neutral production since 2020
Jawor Plant

Jawor Plant(Poland)

  • One of most modern Mercedes-Benz locations
  • Engines: OM654, OM656, battery systems
  • Capacity: Up to 500,000 engines annually
  • CO2-neutral production, AGIPRO automated system
Affalterbach Plant

πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺAffalterbach Plant(Germany)

  • AMG performance engine production
  • Engines: M177, M178, M139 (AMG)
  • Capacity: ~30,000 AMG engines annually
  • Hand-built 'One Man, One Engine' philosophy

Annual Engine Production Volume

Mercedes-Benz produces approximately 500,000 engines per year. Note the steady decline in diesel production due to Euro 6d and WLTP regulations, while hybrid and electric integration rises.

Diesel Decline (-15% since 2020)
Electrification Growth (+3% since 2020)
Regulatory Impact: (EC) No 715/2007

Note: Diesel production has declined steadily due to Euro 6d and WLTP regulations (Regulation (EC) No 715/2007). Hybrid and electric integration rising.

0k120k240k360k480k600k520k2020510k2021495k2022480k2023465k2024 (e)Total Engines Produced
Petrol
Diesel
Hybrid

Mercedes-Benz Strategic Partnerships

Mercedes-Benz engages in selective partnerships for engine development and production, particularly in electrification and emerging markets.

BMW Discussions

Reports of potential BMW 4-cylinder engine sourcing from 2027 (denied by Mercedes)

Geely Partnership

Joint venture for Smart brand electrification in China

Potential collaborations under discussion
  • Discussions with BMW for 4-cylinder petrol engines (2027+) - officially denied
  • Geely partnership for Smart brand electric vehicles
  • Historical collaboration with Chrysler (pre-2020 divestment)

Mercedes-Benz Group Strategic Partnerships Documentation

Powertrain Mix (2020–2024)

Shift in production reflects EU emissions policy and changing consumer demand.

Petrol66%
Diesel20%
Hybrid9%
Petrol
58–66%
Driven by M256, M276, M264 families
Diesel
20–35%
Declining due to Euro 6d, urban restrictions, AdBlue complexity
Hybrid (PHEV)
5–9%
EQ Power models (E 300 e, C 300 e, GLC 300 e)
Electric (BEV)
2–5%
EQS, EQE, EQC, EQA, EQB models

This aligns with Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151 (WLTP/RDE) and EU 2035 ICE phase-out roadmap.

Engine production years verified via Mercedes-Benz Group Production Reports and EU type-approval records

Engine Code FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

A Mercedes-Benz engine code (e.g., OM651, M276) identifies the engine family, fuel type, displacement, and generation. 'M' indicates petrol engines (Motor), while 'OM' indicates diesel engines (Oelmotor). The numbers identify the specific engine family. For example, OM651 is a 2.1L inline-four twin-turbo diesel, while M276 is a 3.0–3.5L V6 petrol with BlueDIRECT injection. Source: Mercedes-Benz Workshop Information System (WIS)

Yes, but production is declining. The OM654 (2.0L) and OM656 (3.0L) diesel engines are still used in C-Class, E-Class, GLC, and GLE models (2024 UK models). However, Mercedes-Benz plans to significantly reduce diesel offerings by 2030 in line with EU emissions targets and urban access restrictions. Source: Mercedes-Benz Group Sustainability Report 2024

The OM617 (3.0L inline-five turbo diesel, 1974–1991) is legendary for reliability, often exceeding 500,000 miles. Among modern engines, the M276 V6 petrol (2011–2020) and OM642 V6 diesel (2005–2020) are generally reliable with proper maintenance. Avoid early M271/M274 engines due to timing chain tensioner issues.

Most modern Mercedes-Benz engines use timing chains. However, placement varies: M276 and OM642 have front-mounted chains (accessible), while M271 and M274 have rear-mounted chains (often requiring engine removal). The M271/M274 are known for timing chain tensioner failures around 80,000–120,000 miles.

The OM651 2.1L diesel (2008–2020) experienced injector failures in early models (2008–2011), particularly piezo injector clogging. Later models improved significantly. Other issues include EGR valve clogging, DPF regeneration problems in urban driving, and occasional balance shaft issues. Regular maintenance with correct oil specification (MB 229.51/229.52) is critical.

On most Mercedes-Benz models, the engine code is stamped on the engine block. For the C-Class (W205), check the right-hand side of the engine block near the cylinder head when facing the engine. The code is stamped into a flat pad and reads 'OM651' or 'M274' followed by variant numbers. Also check your V5C logbook under 'Engine Number'. Source: Mercedes-Benz WIS

On the UK V5C registration document, look for the 'Engine Number' field (Section P.5 or Section 7 depending on format). This shows the full engine code (e.g., OM651.911). If the engine was replaced, this may not reflect the current unit. Always verify physically on the engine block.

Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC diesel systems (OM642, OM651, OM654) are mechanically robust but add complexity. Common issues include AdBlue pump failures (crystallization in dosing system), NOx sensor faults, and DPF clogging in urban use. The engines themselves are durable, but emissions equipment requires proper maintenance and regular long-distance driving for DPF regeneration.

CDI (Common Rail Direct Injection) is Mercedes-Benz's diesel fuel injection system using high-pressure rails (up to 2,000 bar). BlueTEC is the emissions control system using AdBlue (urea) selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to reduce NOx emissions. Modern Mercedes diesels use both: CDI for fuel delivery and BlueTEC for emissions compliance.

Yes. The engine code (e.g., OM651.911) is essential for ordering correct parts (ECU, turbo, injectors, timing components). Using VIN alone can lead to errors as the same model may have different engine variants. Always verify with the physical engine code stamped on the block.

Yes. High-performance engines (M157 biturbo V8, M177 AMG) or engines with known issues (M271, M274 timing chain problems) can increase premiums. Insurers use engine type to assess risk. Always declare the correct engine code to avoid policy invalidation.

The OM642 3.0L V6 diesel (2005–2020) can exceed 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Common wear items include oil cooler leaks (around 100,000 miles), EGR cooler failures, and swirl flap issues. Regular oil changes with MB 229.51/229.52 specification oil and timely replacement of wear components ensure longevity.

The M276 3.0–3.5L V6 petrol (2011–2020) is generally reliable and well-regarded. Common issues are minor: occasional camshaft position sensor failures and carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection). The timing chain is front-mounted and durable. Overall, one of Mercedes-Benz's more dependable modern petrol engines.

Mercedes-Benz specifies different oil standards based on engine type: MB 229.51/229.52 for diesel engines (OM651, OM642), MB 229.5/229.6 for petrol engines (M276, M274), and MB 229.71 for newer engines with extended intervals. Always use oil meeting the exact specification for your engine code. Typical interval: 12,500 miles or annually.

Yes, but must be declared to DVLA. Changing engine code (e.g., diesel to petrol, or different displacement) requires notification, may affect MoT emissions testing, insurance premiums, and road tax. Ensure the replacement engine meets Euro emissions standards for your vehicle's registration date. Source: DVLA guidelines

Mercedes-Benz offers two electrification systems: EQ Boost (48V mild hybrid) on M256, M264, OM656 engines providing up to 22 HP assist; and EQ Power plug-in hybrids (PHEV) combining petrol/diesel engines with electric motors for 50–62 miles electric range (E 300 e, C 300 e, GLC 300 e). Full EVs use dedicated EQ powertrains.

BlueDIRECT is Mercedes-Benz's third-generation direct petrol injection system using piezoelectric injectors, spray-guided combustion, multiple injection events, and multi-spark ignition. It improves fuel efficiency by up to 24% compared to port injection. Used in M271, M274, M276, M278 engines. Can cause carbon buildup on intake valves over time.

Positions 4–8 of the VIN indicate engine type and model series. For example, WDD205004... where '205' indicates W205 C-Class. Use a Mercedes-Benz-specific VIN decoder to extract the exact engine code. Generic decoders may not be accurate. The VIN is on the windscreen, door jamb, or V5C. Source: Mercedes-Benz WIS Document A15001

Older engines (pre-2000) like the OM617, M103, M123 are simpler and often more durable with basic maintenance. Modern engines (M276, OM654) offer better efficiency, emissions, and performance but add complexity (turbocharging, direct injection, emissions systems). Reliability depends on maintenance. Older: simpler, easier to repair. Newer: more efficient, more complex.

Use Mercedes-Benz Workshop Information System (WIS) or Mercedes-Benz Group Product Technical Reports. Public data also available in EU type-approval documents (VCA database). For owners, the Mercedes-Benz Owner's Manual and service records provide engine code and specifications. Source: Mercedes-Benz WIS, EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

References, Disclaimers and Sources

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  • Mercedes-Benz Group – Product Technical Reports, Annual Reports, Sustainability Reports
  • Mercedes-Benz WIS (Workshop Information System) – Service Information, Repair Manuals
  • EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 – Type-approval of light-duty vehicles
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151 – WLTP and RDE testing procedures
  • UK DVLA Vehicle Approval and V5C Guidelines
DVLA: Engine Changes and MoT Compliance

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Information accurate as of 2025