The Mercedes-Benz M113.968 is a 5,439 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2005. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank with multi-point fuel injection (Bosch ME-Motronic) and delivers 225 kW (306 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 2,700 rpm. Its smooth power delivery and refined operation made it ideal for flagship luxury sedans and coupes, offering strong low-end torque and effortless highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the W220 S-Class and C215 CL-Class, the M113.968 was engineered for premium driving dynamics and long-term durability. It met Euro 3 emissions standards through a combination of a three-way catalytic converter, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and integrated engine management, allowing compliance across Western European markets. The engine's aluminium block and heads provided a favorable power-to-weight ratio, while the timing chain-driven valvetrain reduced long-term servicing costs.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft lobes, particularly in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals or frequent short-trip driving. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 040.00-S-12-3, is attributed to insufficient oil pressure buildup before high-load operation and marginal lubrication at the camshaft journals. Later production revisions included updated oil pump gears and revised camshaft surface hardening to improve longevity.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (EU Directive 98/69/EC, Annex I); exact compliance varies by market and model year.
The Mercedes-Benz M113.968 is a 5,439 cc V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury vehicles (2001–2005). It combines SOHC architecture with Bosch ME-Motronic electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes refinement and serviceability for mixed driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,439 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, SOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 460 Nm @ 2,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch ME-Motronic multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (EU Directive 98/69/EC) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CD | |
| Dry weight | 205 kg |
The SOHC V8 design provides smooth and linear performance ideal for luxury driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using SAE 10W-40 API SL/CD oil to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. Extended idling or repeated short trips increase carbon buildup and reduce oil pressure stability, accelerating valvetrain wear. The ME-Motronic system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks and ageing sensors, which can trigger driveability issues. Cold-start hesitation may occur if idle air control valves or throttle potentiometers degrade. Timing chain stretch is uncommon before 200,000 km; however, any rattling at startup should prompt inspection of tensioner condition. Engine longevity beyond 250,000 km is achievable with disciplined maintenance and use of high-quality fuel meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SL/CD specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 040.00-S-12-3). Modern equivalents acceptable if meeting legacy viscosity and additive requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies under EU Directive 98/69/EC, Annex I (Type Approval No. 67897-130). Compliance verified via chassis dyno testing and exhaust gas analysis.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run; no market-specific derating documented.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 113.00-2001, 07.00-4010, SIB 040.00-S-12-3
European Commission: Directive 98/69/EC on Emissions
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
Mercedes-Benz ETK Parts Catalogue (2001–2005)
The Mercedes-Benz M113.968 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220 and C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-fuel mixture tuning in the C215 for smoother idle and revised exhaust manifolds in the W220-and from 2002, the W220 models received minor emissions revisions, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the intake manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS 113.00-2001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for M113 series). Pre-2002 models have a chrome-plated intake manifold cover; post-2002 units use black plastic. Critical differentiation from M113.967: M113.968 has higher compression (10.0:1 vs 9.7:1), different camshaft profile, and produces 225 kW vs 215 kW. Service parts require VIN and production date verification—camshafts, fuel injectors, and intake manifolds are not interchangeable between variants (Mercedes-Benz SIB 040.00-S-12-3).
The M113.968's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with irregular maintenance. Internal Mercedes-Benz service reports from 2002–2006 noted a significant number of engines requiring camshaft replacement before 180,000 km, while field data from German TÜV inspections show increased failure rates in high-mileage examples. Extended oil intervals and infrequent warm-up cycles increase wear, making oil quality and operating habits critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2001-2005) and German TÜV inspection statistics (2002-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113968.
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