The Mercedes-Benz M 136.920 is a 2,996 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It served as a mid-range powerplant for executive sedans and coupes, featuring a naturally aspirated design with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 24 valves. Delivering 134 kW (182 PS) in standard tune, it provided balanced performance with smooth throttle response and linear power delivery.
Fitted to the W202 C-Class and C140 CL-Class, the M 136.920 was engineered for refined daily driving and long-distance comfort. Its design emphasized operational smoothness and emissions compliance through sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME2.1) and closed-loop lambda control. The engine met Euro 2 emissions standards across its production run, with select export variants achieving early Euro 3 compliance.
One documented concern is premature wear of the plastic intake manifold swirl flaps, which in rare cases can lead to flap detachment and engine damage. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07.0026/04, is attributed to thermal cycling fatigue in high-temperature environments. Later production revisions introduced reinforced flap materials and updated control logic to reduce actuator stress.
All production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 emissions standards; select export models (1999–2000) comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Mercedes-Benz M 136.920 is a 2,996 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for executive applications (1996–2000). It combines naturally aspirated breathing with sequential fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and refinement. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances urban drivability with highway efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 134 kW (182 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME2.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (Euro 3 for select export models) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (SOHC-style drive with DOHC cams) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 MB 229.1 | |
| Dry weight | 182 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 provides predictable, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but benefits from high-octane fuel (RON 95 minimum) to maintain throttle response and prevent knock. SAE 10W-40 MB 229.1 oil is recommended due to its thermal stability and valve train protection. Oil changes should not exceed 15,000 km or 24 months to prevent sludge and timing chain wear. The ME2.1 fuel system requires periodic injector cleaning to maintain idle stability. Pre-1998 engines should be inspected for intake swirl flap integrity per Mercedes SIB 07.0026/04; updated flaps and revised actuator control were introduced mid-cycle to enhance durability. Cooling system integrity is critical—leaks or thermostat faults can lead to overheating due to compact engine bay packaging.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/04). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1996–2000) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681). Export models (1999–2000) may meet Euro 3 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting RON 95 minimum (Mercedes TIS Doc. A36014).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35723, A36014, SIB 07.0026/04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
DIN 70020: Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 136.920 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W202 and C140 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the C140 and shortened accessory drives in the W202-and from 1998 the facelifted W202 models adopted revised intake manifolds and updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mercedes TIS A35723). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M136 series). Pre-1998 engines have silver cam covers with "280" badging; post-1998 units feature revised intake plenum and updated ME2.1 ECU. Critical differentiation from M112: M136 uses a single throttle body with sequential injection, while M112 (older V6) has different intake geometry and distributor-based ignition. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds and timing components for pre-1998 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to flap and chain updates (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/04).
The M 136.920's primary reliability risk is intake swirl flap degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 1999 noted a small number of pre-1998 engines requiring intake manifold replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate cooling system failures as a leading cause of overheating-related breakdowns. Extended service intervals and poor coolant maintenance increase wear and thermal stress, making fluid and oil discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1996-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M136920.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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.
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