The Mercedes-Benz M 180.940 is a 1,332 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It powered entry-level A-Class and B-Class models, delivering 66 kW (90 PS) and 120 Nm of torque. Featuring a 16-valve DOHC configuration and multi-point fuel injection, it was engineered for fuel efficiency and low-cost ownership in urban environments.
Fitted to compact Mercedes-Benz models including the W176 A 160 and W246 B 160, the M 180.940 was designed for economical daily commuting and city driving. Emissions compliance was achieved via a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6 standards for all production years, as confirmed by VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123.
One documented reliability concern is premature timing chain tensioner wear, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 05 18, is often linked to marginal oil flow during cold starts. Later production engines (post-2017) received revised tensioner design and updated oil gallery drilling to improve durability.
All production years 2014–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
The Mercedes-Benz M 180.940 is a 1,332 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine developed for compact urban applications (2014–2020). It combines dual overhead camshafts and 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it represents Mercedes-Benz's commitment to efficient entry-level powertrains.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,332 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 79.7 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | 5W-30 MB 229.51 | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-four provides smooth, predictable performance ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51-compliant 5W-30 oil to prevent timing chain wear and sludge buildup. Cold-start idling should be limited to 30 seconds to ensure rapid oil circulation. The MPI system is less prone to carbon buildup than direct injection but still benefits from periodic fuel system cleaning. Regular use of premium unleaded (RON 95) is recommended to maintain combustion stability. Post-2017 engines feature improved tensioner design; pre-2017 units should be monitored for chain rattle per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 18. Catalytic converters require sustained operating temperature—frequent short trips increase carbon deposits and exhaust backpressure.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 18). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2014–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A180100).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A180100, A180101, A180105, SIB 07 05 18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9123)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 180.940 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176/W246 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the W246 and revised intake manifolds in the W176-and from 2018 the facelifted W177 adopted the M282 turbocharged engine, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A180100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for M180 series). All models have black cam covers with "160" badging. Critical differentiation from M266: M180.940 has lower displacement (1.3L vs 1.5L) and different ECU calibration. Service parts require chassis number verification—timing tensioners for pre-2017 engines are incompatible with post-2017 revisions due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 18).
The M 180.940's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 2016 reported a notable share of pre-2017 engines requiring tensioner 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. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2014-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M180940.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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