Engine Code

Mercedes Benz M113986 Engine (2004–2006) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mercedes — Benz M113.986 is a 6,208 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2006. It forms part of the M113 engine family, featuring a 90 — degree V configuration, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and three valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust). Equipped with sequential multi — point fuel injection and an EZL ignition system, it delivers 350 kW (476 PS) at 6,100 rpm and 610 Nm of torque at 5,200 rpm, designed for high — performance AMG applications.

Fitted exclusiv

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2004–2006 comply with Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8903).

Mercedes Benz M113986 Technical Specifications

The Mercedes-Benz M113.986 is a 6,208 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance AMG platforms (2004–2006). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver track-focused performance and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical reliability and high-RPM capability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
6,208 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded, 98 RON min)
Configuration
V8, DOHC, 24-valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
102.0 mm × 95.0 mm
Power output
350 kW (476 PS) @ 6,100 rpm
Torque
610 Nm @ 5,200 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi-point fuel injection
Emissions standard
Euro 4
Compression ratio
11.0:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Not applicable
Timing system
Timing chain (double-row, non-interference)
Oil type
229.5 specification (SAE 10W-60)
Dry weight
235 kg

Mercedes Benz M113986 Compatible Models

The Mercedes-Benz M113.986 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting in rear-wheel-drive applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the W211 and shorter exhaust manifolds in the C215—and from 2005 the facelifted W211 models adopted updated lambda control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2004–2006
Models:
E-Class (W211) AMG
Variants:
E 55 AMG
View Source
Mercedes Group PT-2004
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2004–2006
Models:
CL-Class (C215) AMG
Variants:
CL 55 AMG
View Source
Mercedes TIS Doc. A11511

Common Reliability Issues - MERCEDES-BENZ M113986 Compatible Models

The M113.986's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2004 indicated a notable share of pre-2005 engines showing lobe degradation before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in vehicles with delayed lambda sensor servicing. Extended oil intervals and low-RON fuel exacerbate wear and knock risk, making oil quality and fuel specification adherence critical.

Intake camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Ticking noise at idle, reduced power, misfires, elevated hydrocarbon emissions.
Cause: Marginal lubrication film on intake cam lobes under high-load conditions, exacerbated by extended oil intervals and non-specification oil.
Fix: Replace camshaft with post-2005 hardened unit per service bulletin; verify oil pressure and use MB 229.5 oil to prevent recurrence.
Lambda sensor degradation
Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, failed emissions test, rough idle.
Cause: Ageing or contamination of oxygen sensor reducing feedback accuracy, leading to incorrect air-fuel mixture.
Fix: Replace with OEM-specified lambda sensor and reset adaptation values in ECU; inspect for exhaust leaks.
Throttle body carbon buildup
Symptoms: Hesitation, stalling at idle, erratic idle speed, reduced throttle response.
Cause: Deposit accumulation on throttle plate and bore from crankcase vapours and fuel byproducts.
Fix: Clean throttle body with approved solvent and recalibrate idle adaptation via diagnostic tool.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible leaks near timing cover, temperature fluctuations.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing or gasket failure due to thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing with updated metal-reinforced unit; bleed cooling system thoroughly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2004-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2004-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MERCEDES-BENZ M113986 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The M113.986 is mechanically robust with good longevity when maintained properly. Early models (2004–2005) are prone to camshaft lobe wear if oil changes are delayed or incorrect oil is used. Later units (post-2005) feature improved camshaft hardening, enhancing durability. Regular servicing with MB 229.5 oil and timely lambda sensor replacement ensure reliable long-term operation.

The main issues are intake camshaft lobe wear (especially pre-2005), lambda sensor failure, throttle body carbon buildup, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and field reports. Using correct oil and adhering to service intervals significantly reduces failure rates.

This 6.2L petrol V8 engine was used in the E-Class (W211 E 55 AMG) and CL-Class (C215 CL 55 AMG). It was phased out by 2006 and replaced by the M156 engine family. All applications were rear-wheel-drive with longitudinal engine mounting.

Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remapping can yield modest gains (~20-30 PS) by optimizing ignition and fuel maps, but the naturally aspirated design and compression ratio limit output. Aftermarket intake and exhaust systems offer minor improvements. Significant power increases require internal modifications, which are uncommon due to the engine's age and design constraints.

In combined driving, the M113.986 achieves approximately 15.5–17.5 L/100km (18–16 mpg UK). Urban consumption ranges from 19.0–23.0 L/100km, while highway efficiency can reach 12.0 L/100km. Real-world figures depend on driving style and vehicle weight, with the W211 E-Class being the most efficient application.

No. The M113.986 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, the engine will stop running, so chain inspection during major services is still recommended.

Mercedes specifies SAE 10W-60 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This high-shear-stability oil ensures proper lubrication of the camshaft and valvetrain. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year. Using non-specification oil increases the risk of cam lobe wear, especially in pre-2005 engines.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

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EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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