The Mercedes-Benz M 113.971 is a 5,439 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with multi-point fuel injection (KE-Jetronic) and was engineered for high-performance luxury sedans and coupes. Delivering 255 kW (347 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 530 Nm of torque, its 10.0:1 compression ratio enables strong, linear power delivery ideal for grand touring.
Fitted to the W220 S-Class and C215 CL-Class models, the M 113.971 was designed for drivers seeking effortless power, refinement, and long-distance cruising comfort. 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 lobes, particularly on early production units. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07 01 01, 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 2001–2003 meet Euro 3 standards; 2004–2006 models comply with enhanced emissions protocols depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8904).
The Mercedes-Benz M 113.971 is a 5,439 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for flagship luxury sedans and coupes (2001–2006). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with KE-Jetronic electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-output performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 and enhanced emissions standards, it balances power with reliability for premium driving applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,439 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 255 kW (347 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | KE-Jetronic multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2004); enhanced protocols (2004–2006) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven, front-mounted | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CD | |
| Dry weight | 215 kg |
The DOHC V8 provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for relaxed grand touring but requires consistent use of high-detergent oil to prevent camshaft lobe wear, particularly at the third journal. SAE 10W-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 KE-Jetronic system demands periodic inspection of fuel injectors and throttle body calibration. Engines produced before 2004 should be retrofitted with the revised oilway insert per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 01 01 to prevent premature cam failure. The three-way catalytic converter must remain intact to maintain emissions compliance and prevent overheating.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SL/CD specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 01 01). Supersedes earlier MB 229.1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2004 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8904). 2004–2006 models meet enhanced national emissions protocols.
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 A34011, A34106, SIB 07 01 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8904)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 113.971 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220/C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the C215 and revised exhaust routing in the W220-and from 2004 the facelifted W220 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 A34089). The 6th and 7th VIN digits indicate engine type ('13' for M113 series). Pre-2004 models have silver valve covers with chrome accents; post-2004 units use black valve covers with integrated emissions routing. Critical differentiation from M113 non-.971 variants: M 113.971 features DOHC with 32 valves and a distinctive KE-Jetronic fuel injection layout. Service parts require VIN and production date verification - camshaft kits for pre-2004 engines are incompatible with later units due to oilway revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 01 01).
The M 113.971'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-2004 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 (2001-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2006-2014). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113971.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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