The Mercedes-Benz M112.912 is a 2,151 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 18-valve configuration, and electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM). Designed for compact and mid-size applications, it delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 210 Nm of torque, offering smooth power delivery and refinement in entry-level luxury models.
Fitted to models such as the W202 C220, W210 E220, and W245 B220, the M112.912 was engineered for balanced everyday driving, emphasizing smoothness and reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 3 compliance across all production years in regulated markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft lobes, particularly in engines subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 12 03 98, is attributed to inadequate lubrication under high-load conditions. Later production revisions included updated camshaft materials and modified oil gallery design to improve durability.
All production years (1998–2002) comply with Euro 3 emissions standards in regulated markets (EU Directive 98/69/EC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7789).
The Mercedes-Benz M112.912 is a 2,151 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (1998–2002). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth performance and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,151 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 18-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 67.6 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| 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 | 158 kg |
The M112.912 provides smooth mid-range power ideal for city and highway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1-compliant oil to prevent camshaft wear. SAE 10W-40 viscosity ensures adequate lubrication for the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or high-load operation without proper warm-up can accelerate lobe degradation. The EZM injection system demands clean fuel and regular airflow calibration to maintain idle stability. Engines produced after 2000 feature revised camshaft hardening; pre-1999 units should be inspected for wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 12 03 98. Three-way catalytic converters require functional oxygen sensors to prevent backpressure and performance loss.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12 03 98). Compatible with API SJ/CD standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998–2002 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7789). Complies with EU Directive 98/69/EC.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants documented.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34716, A35113, SIB 12 03 98
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7789)
EU Directive 98/69/EC - Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M112.912 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W202/W210 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W210 and revised exhaust manifolds in the W245-and from 2000 the facelifted W202 models adopted updated intake runners, 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 cylinder head (Mercedes-Benz TIS A34716). The 7th and 8th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('12' for M112 series). Pre-2000 models have silver valve covers; post-2000 units use black plastic. Critical differentiation from M112.910: M112.912 includes revised camshaft profile and intake manifold for increased torque. Service parts require VIN verification - camshafts for pre-1999 engines are incompatible with later hardened versions due to metallurgical changes (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12 03 98).
The M112.912's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2000 noted a significant number of pre-1999 engines exhibiting lobe degradation before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show higher-than-average emissions test failures linked to EZM airflow imbalances 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 (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M112912.
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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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