The Mercedes-Benz M180.945 is a 1,991 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It was developed as a compact, fuel-efficient powerplant for entry-level luxury vehicles, featuring a 16-valve DOHC layout, direct fuel injection (CGI), and twin-scroll turbocharging. In standard configuration it delivered 115 kW (156 PS), with peak torque of 250 Nm, providing responsive urban performance and smooth mid-range driveability.
Fitted to models such as the W176 A-Class, W177 CLA-Class, and Z177 GLA-Class, the M180.945 was engineered for everyday practicality and reliability in urban and mixed driving conditions. It featured Bosch ME 17.8.3 engine management with multi-point and direct injection (dual injection), enabling precise air-fuel control and improved throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter, allowing the engine to meet Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to increased noise and potential timing misalignment. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 01.01.178, is linked to inadequate oil flow to the upper guide rail under frequent cold starts. In 2017, an updated tensioner design and revised oil gallery routing were introduced to improve lubrication and reduce failure incidence.
All production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7893).
The Mercedes-Benz M180.945 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged engine engineered for compact and subcompact platforms (2015–2020). It combines DOHC architecture with CGI direct injection and twin-scroll turbocharging to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth city driving characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances fuel efficiency with drivability in lightweight applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 115 kW (156 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch ME 17.8.3 CGI direct injection with multi-point backup (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbocharger (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, tensioner-guided) | |
| Oil type | 5W-30 MB 229.5 | |
| Dry weight | 146 kg |
The turbocharged inline-four provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using 5W-30 MB 229.5 specification to prevent timing chain tensioner wear and turbocharger degradation. Use of non-compliant oils accelerates wear in high-load conditions. The Bosch ME 17.8.3 system with dual injection reduces carbon buildup but requires periodic airflow meter and throttle body cleaning to maintain idle stability. Pre-2017 engines should have tensioner and guide rail inspected per SIB 01.01.178; later units benefit from improved oil routing. Cooling system integrity is critical due to compact engine bay packaging—inspect thermostat, hoses, and radiator regularly to prevent overheating.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 5W-30 (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.01.178). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7893).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A37210).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37210, A37250, SIB 01.01.178
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7893)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz M180.945 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176/W177/Z177 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the W176 and revised accessory drive routing in the Z177-and from 2017 the updated tensioner and oil gallery revisions in later builds, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A37210). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for M180 series). Pre-2017 engines have silver cam covers with "M180" branding; post-2017 units use black cam covers with revised tensioner housings. Critical differentiation from M270: M180.945 has lower output and simplified turbo setup. Service parts require model-year verification—tensioners and timing kits for pre-2017 engines are not interchangeable with later revisions due to oil feed and guide updates (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.01.178).
The M180.945's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in pre-2017 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2018 noted a significant number of early engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show elevated engine-related failures in compact models with deferred maintenance. Extended oil intervals and use of non-compliant oils increase wear rates, making oil quality and schedule adherence 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 M180945.
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