The Mercedes-Benz M 111.970 is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2004. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with multi-point fuel injection (EZL) and was engineered for compact and mid-size sedans. This engine delivers 102 kW (139 PS) at 5,700 rpm and 198 Nm of torque, with a 10.5:1 compression ratio enabling responsive urban performance.
Fitted primarily to the W203 C-Class and W211 E-Class models, the M 111.970 was designed for drivers seeking reliable everyday drivability and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing the engine to meet Euro 3 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft lobe, particularly on early production units. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07 01 99, is linked to marginal oil flow at the third cam journal under sustained low-RPM operation. Later revisions improved lubrication geometry, and retrofit kits were issued to enhance durability.
Production years 2000–2004 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Mercedes-Benz M 111.970 is a 1,998 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact and executive sedans (2000–2004). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with EZL electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances reliability with low-maintenance operation for daily driving applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 102 kW (139 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 198 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | EZL multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven, front-mounted | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, API SL/CD | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The SOHC inline-four provides adequate low-RPM torque for urban driving but requires consistent use of high-detergent oil to prevent camshaft lobe wear, particularly at the third journal. SAE 5W-40 meeting API SL/CD specifications is critical due to the engine's reliance on robust oil film strength under sustained load. Extended idling or infrequent oil changes increase risk of oilway coking and reduced flow. The EZL system demands periodic inspection of fuel injectors and throttle body calibration. Engines produced before 2002 should be retrofitted with the revised oilway insert per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 01 99 to prevent premature cam failure. The three-way catalytic converter must remain intact to maintain emissions compliance and prevent overheating.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40, API SL/CD specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 01 99). Supersedes earlier MB 229.1 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets with leaded or unleaded premium fuel (RON 95).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32013, A32107, SIB 07 01 99
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 111.970 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W203/W211 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the W203 and revised exhaust routing in the W211-and from 2002 the facelifted W203 models adopted enhanced emissions hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A32090). The 6th and 7th VIN digits indicate engine type ('11' for M111 series). Pre-2002 models have silver valve covers with chrome accents; post-2002 units use black valve covers with integrated emissions routing. Critical differentiation from M111 non-.970 variants: M 111.970 features SOHC with 8 valves and a distinctive EZL fuel injection layout. Service parts require VIN and production date verification - camshaft kits for pre-2002 engines are incompatible with later units due to oilway revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 01 99).
The M 111.970's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2003 noted a significant number of pre-2002 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while VCA records indicate a notable share of emissions failures linked to catalytic converter degradation. Extended oil intervals and use of non-specification oils increase wear risk, making oil quality and adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2000-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2004-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M111970.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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