The Mercedes-Benz M 133.980 is a 1,991 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2019. It powered high-performance AMG models including the A 45 AMG, CLA 45 AMG, and GLA 45 AMG, delivering 265 kW (360 PS) and 450 Nm of torque. Featuring a DOHC 16-valve configuration, twin-scroll turbocharger, and direct fuel injection, it was the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world at launch.
Fitted exclusively to compact AMG performance vehicles, the M 133.980 was engineered for aggressive throttle response and track-capable power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved via a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards for all production years, as confirmed by VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly under sustained high-load operation. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 05 15, is often linked to fuel quality and extended service intervals. Later production engines (post-2016) received revised fuel pump calibration and enhanced cooling strategies to improve durability.
All production years 2013–2019 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz M 133.980 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine developed for compact AMG performance applications (2013–2019). It combines twin-cam architecture with direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver extreme specific output and sharp throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it represents the peak of Mercedes-AMG's high-revving, high-stress four-cylinder engineering.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 265 kW (360 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 2,250–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner, water-cooled) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | 0W-40 MB 229.52 | |
| Dry weight | 161 kg |
The turbocharged inline-4 delivers aggressive throttle response ideal for performance driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.52-compliant 0W-40 oil to prevent turbo bearing and HPFP wear. Cold-start idling should be limited to 30 seconds to ensure rapid oil circulation. The direct injection system is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves, requiring periodic cleaning. High-load operation demands premium unleaded (RON 98) to prevent detonation. Post-2016 engines feature improved HPFP cooling; pre-2016 units should be monitored for fuel pressure faults per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 15. Catalytic converters require sustained operating temperature—frequent short trips increase carbon deposits and exhaust backpressure.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.52 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 15). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2013–2019) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A133100).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A133100, A133101, A133105, SIB 07 05 15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 133.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176/C117/X156 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W176 and revised intake manifolds in the C117-and from 2015 the facelifted W176 received updated cooling systems, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A133100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for M133 series). All models have black cam covers with "AMG" badging and red rocker arms. Critical differentiation from M133.983: M133.980 has lower boost pressure (1.6 bar vs 1.8 bar) and different ECU calibration. Service parts require chassis number verification—HPFP units for pre-2016 engines are incompatible with post-2016 revisions due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 15).
The M 133.980's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in track or high-load use. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 2015 reported a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in city-driven vehicles. High-temperature cycles and extended idling increase turbo and fuel system stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M133980.
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