The Mercedes-Benz M 180.941 is a 1,332 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It served as the base powerplant for compact A-Class and B-Class models, featuring a transverse-mounted layout with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 16 valves. In standard tune, it delivered 70 kW (95 PS), with torque output of 140 Nm, providing efficient urban performance and strong low-end response.
Fitted to the W176 A-Class and W246 B-Class, the M 180.941 was engineered for fuel economy and light-duty urban driving. Its design emphasized packaging efficiency and emissions compliance through multi-point fuel injection and integrated exhaust manifolds, allowing it to meet Euro 6 standards across its production run. The engine was paired with 6-speed manual or 7G-DCT transmissions for optimal efficiency.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slapping and engine damage. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07.0026/08, is attributed to marginal oil pressure at idle in early production units. In 2017, Mercedes introduced a revised tensioner design with improved spring loading and updated oil gallery drilling to enhance durability.
All production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5685).
The Mercedes-Benz M 180.941 is a 1,332 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact applications (2015–2020). It combines transverse packaging with multi-point injection to deliver urban efficiency and responsive low-speed performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances city drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,332 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME2.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (SOHC-style drive with DOHC cams) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 MB 229.5 | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-four provides predictable, low-RPM power ideal for city driving but benefits from regular use of high-octane fuel (RON 95) to maintain throttle response and prevent knock. SAE 5W-30 MB 229.5 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-2017 engines should be inspected for timing chain tensioner integrity per Mercedes SIB 07.0026/08; updated tensioners with improved spring loading 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 229.5 specification (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/08). Compatible with ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5685).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting RON 95 minimum (Mercedes TIS Doc. A36018).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35727, A36018, SIB 07.0026/08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5685)
DIN 70020: Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 180.941 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176 and W246 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened accessory drives in the W176 and reinforced engine mounts in the W246-and from 2017 the facelifted W176 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 vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes TIS A35727). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M180 series). Pre-2017 engines have silver cam covers with "140" badging; post-2017 units feature revised intake plenum and updated ME2.1 ECU. Critical differentiation from M270: M180 uses naturally aspirated design with single throttle body, while M270 (turbocharged) has different intake geometry and turbocharger. Service parts require model-year verification—timing components for pre-2017 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to tensioner and chain updates (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/08).
The M 180.941's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2018 noted a significant number of pre-2017 engines requiring tensioner 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 (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M180941.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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
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