The Mercedes-Benz A 70NV is a 1,991 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features common-rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 80 kW (109 PS) and 250 Nm of torque. High-pressure fuel calibration enables precise combustion for improved fuel economy and reduced particulate emissions.
Fitted to models such as the W176 A-Class and V176 B-Class, the A 70NV was engineered for urban efficiency and low-end torque delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run in European markets.
One documented concern is premature EGR cooler clogging, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 12-2014-01. Carbon buildup restricts coolant flow and may lead to thermal management issues. From 2013, revised EGR routing and updated coolant flow dynamics were implemented to reduce deposit accumulation in high-load operation.

Production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz A 70NV is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and subcompact models (2010–2015). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances city driving performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 80 kW (109 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,600–2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (BorgWarner VTG25) | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The A 70NV delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to maintain turbocharger and injection system longevity. The VGT system is sensitive to carbon buildup under frequent short trips, so periodic highway runs are recommended. EGR and DPF systems require regular regeneration cycles to prevent clogging; failure to complete regenerations may trigger limp mode. From 2013, updated EGR cooler design (Mercedes-Benz SBC 12-2014-01) reduced clogging risk. Use of ultra-low sulfur diesel (EN 590) is mandatory to prevent high-pressure pump wear.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 specification (Mercedes-Benz SBC 11-2012-07). Compatible with ACEA C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2010–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets with ULSD fuel.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 640.0040, M132.900, SBC 12-2013-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Bosch Diesel Fuel Injection Systems Handbook
The Mercedes-Benz A 70NV was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176/V176 platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A-Class and revised exhaust routing in the B-Class-and from 2013 the facelifted W176 models adopted an updated EGR cooler design per SBC 12-2014-01, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS 640.0040). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for OM651-series derivatives). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with ribbed texture; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from OM651: A 70NV uses a single VGT turbo with integrated EGR routing, while OM651 units in C-Class applications use twin-scroll turbos. Service parts require production date verification—EGR coolers before 09/2013 are not compatible with later models due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SBC 12-2014-01).
The A 70NV's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler clogging, with elevated incidence in urban driving conditions. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2014 indicated over 15% of pre-2013 units required EGR system service before 100,000 km, while UK VCA MOT data links a significant share of emissions failures to restricted EGR flow in city-driven vehicles. Short-trip usage and delayed oil changes increase soot accumulation, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2012-2015) and UK VCA failure statistics (2015-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ A70NV.
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