The Mercedes-Benz M113.992 is a 5,439 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It features a 90-degree V8 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. This engine delivers 225 kW (306 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing strong high-RPM performance and smooth power delivery for grand touring applications.
Fitted to high-performance variants including the CLK 55 AMG (C209), SLK 55 AMG (R170), and E 55 AMG (W211), the M113.992 was engineered for dynamic driving with refined throttle response and high-end power. Its design prioritizes linear power delivery and engine durability under sustained load, meeting Euro 3 emissions standards through precise air-fuel ratio control and secondary air injection during cold start.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear in early production units, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07 05 01. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication during cold starts due to oil passage geometry in the cylinder heads. In 2003, revised camshafts and updated oil pump calibration were introduced to improve oil flow and reduce wear incidence.

Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2005–2006 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.992 is a 5,439 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for performance sedans and coupes (2001–2006). It combines DOHC 32-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver high-RPM power and smooth throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and later Euro 4) standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance through advanced combustion management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,439 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 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 @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2005); Euro 4 (2005–2006, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (double overhead cam) | |
| Oil type | 229.3 or 229.5 specification (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 221 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides linear power delivery ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Mercedes-Benz 229.3/229.5–compliant 10W-60 oil to prevent camshaft wear. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure rapid oil pressure build-up to upper valvetrain components. The timing chain system is robust but early units (pre-2003) are prone to wear if oil maintenance is deferred. Spark plug replacement must follow OEM torque and seating procedures to prevent cylinder head thread damage. Post-2003 revisions include improved oil feed geometry and updated cam profiles to enhance durability.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 or 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 01). Not compatible with lower-viscosity or non-approved oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2005 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2005–2006 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent with standard fuel (RON 95) but benefits from RON 98 for sustained high-load operation (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A005020).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A005010, A005015, SIB 07 05 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020:2004 Road Vehicles — Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M113.992 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/C209 platforms with longitudinal mounting and reserved exclusively for AMG-badged performance models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the E 55 AMG and compact intake manifolds in the CLK 55 AMG-and from 2005 the facelifted SLK 55 AMG (R171) adopted revised throttle mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-right cylinder bank near the alternator (Mercedes-Benz TIS A005030). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('V' for M113 series). Pre-2003 models have silver cam covers with black valve stem seals; post-2003 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M113.980: M113.992 has unique intake manifold geometry and AMG-specific ECU calibration. Service parts require production date verification — camshafts and oil pumps for engines before 06/2003 are incompatible with later units due to internal revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 01).
The M113.992's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes data from 2004 reported a notable share of pre-2003 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of MOT emissions failures to misfire-related faults in high-mileage V8s. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase valvetrain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2001–2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113992.
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