The Mercedes-Benz M111.942 is a 1,598 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM). With a focus on compact efficiency and smooth operation, it delivered 75 kW (102 PS) and 140 Nm of torque, primarily used in entry-level and compact Mercedes-Benz models.
Fitted to models such as the W168 A140, W202 C160, and W163 M160, the M111.942 was engineered for urban driving and economical daily use. Its driving character emphasized low fuel consumption and responsive low-end performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, allowing Euro 2 and partial Euro 3 compliance depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slack and valve timing errors. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 11 05 98, is attributed to inadequate oil flow to the upper guide in high-temperature conditions. Later production revisions included an updated oil feed restrictor and modified tensioner design to improve reliability.
Production years 1996–1999 meet Euro 2 standards; 1999–2000 models comply with Euro 3 in regulated markets (EU Directive 94/12/EC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M111.942 is a 1,598 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and entry-level models (1996–2000). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver efficient performance and smooth refinement. Designed to meet evolving European emissions standards, it balances drivability with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 75 kW (102 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1996–1999); Euro 3 (1999–2000) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The M111.942 provides responsive low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1-compliant oil to prevent timing chain wear. SAE 10W-40 viscosity ensures adequate lubrication for the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or high-temperature operation without proper oil flow can accelerate tensioner degradation. The EZM injection system demands clean fuel and regular injector cleaning to maintain idle stability. Engines produced after 1998 feature revised oil restrictors; pre-1998 units should be inspected for tensioner wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 05 98. Three-way catalytic converters on Euro 3 models require functional oxygen sensors to prevent backpressure and performance loss.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 05 98). Compatible with API SH/CD standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to late 1999–2000 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Pre-1999 models comply with EU Directive 94/12/EC (Euro 2).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants documented.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34713, A35110, SIB 11 05 98
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
EU Directive 94/12/EC - Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M111.942 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W168/W202 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the W168 and revised exhaust routing in the W202-and from 1998 the facelifted W168 models adopted emissions control upgrades, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head (Mercedes-Benz TIS A34713). The 7th and 8th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('11' for M111 series). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers; post-1998 units use black plastic. Critical differentiation from M111.940: M111.942 includes Euro 3 emissions prep (oxygen sensor bung, catalytic converter) in 1999 models. Service parts require VIN verification - tensioners for pre-1998 engines are incompatible with later revised versions due to oil feed changes (Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 05 98).
The M111.942's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1999 noted a significant number of pre-1998 engines exhibiting tensioner failure before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show higher-than-average emissions test failures linked to oxygen sensor degradation in older units. Infrequent oil changes and cold starts increase wear risk, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1996-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M111942.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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