The Mercedes — Benz M 112.949 is a 3,199 cc, V6, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), multi — point fuel injection (EZL), and a die — cast aluminium block and head. This refined V6 delivers 170 kW (231 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 310 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth power delivery and long — distance comfort in executive sedans and coupes.
Fitted primarily to the W210 E — Class and W211 E — Class models—such as the…
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6015).
The Mercedes-Benz M 112.949 is a 3,199 cc V6 naturally aspirated engine engineered for mid-size and executive sedans (2000–2005). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC valvetrain design to deliver smooth power and reduced vibration. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances refinement with mechanical efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,199 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 87.0 mm | |
Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 310 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (EZL control) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SL/CD) | |
Dry weight | 180 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 112.949 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W210 and W211 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning for automatic transmission variants in the W211 and revised exhaust routing in the W210-and from 2003 the facelifted W211 models adopted the M112.950 with revised intake, creating direct interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 112.949's primary reliability risk is camshaft and follower wear under sustained high-RPM use, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 150,000 km without oil service. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2002 noted measurable cam lobe degradation in urban-driven E320s, while VCA field data links a significant portion of high-mileage W210/W211 failures to intake vacuum leaks. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality increase fuel system wear, making fluid maintenance and inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2000-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Yes, the M 112.949 is known for mechanical simplicity and durability when properly maintained. Its V6 layout and DOHC design contribute to smooth operation and longevity. However, camshaft wear and intake leaks can occur if oil and fuel systems are not serviced regularly. Engines with documented service history often exceed 200,000 km.
The main issues are camshaft/follower wear from delayed oil changes, intake manifold vacuum leaks, timing chain tensioner failure, and valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and owner maintenance logs.
The M 112.949 was used in the W210 E-Class (E320) and W211 E-Class (E320) from 2000 to 2005. It was replaced by the M112.950 in later E-Class models. No other manufacturers used this engine.
Limited tuning potential exists. Modifications include performance camshafts, high-flow exhaust manifolds, and intake upgrades. Some owners retrofit throttle-body spacers or cold-air intakes. Realistic gains are +10–15 kW with supporting mods. Over-revving beyond 6,500 rpm risks valve float and follower damage.
In a W211 E320, typical consumption is ~11.2 L/100km (city) and ~7.1 L/100km (highway), or about 29 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style and mechanical condition, but expect 26–32 mpg (UK) on mixed roads.
Yes. The M 112 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons can contact open valves, resulting in bent valves or damaged pistons. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes specifies SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SL/CD standards. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km to protect the camshaft and timing chain. Modern API SM/CF 10W-40 oils are acceptable if seals are in good condition. Always use high-quality oil to support the EZL injection system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.