The Mercedes-Benz M 180.947 is a 1,332 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It serves as the entry-level powerplant for Mercedes-Benz’s compact vehicle lineup, delivering responsive urban performance and high fuel efficiency. Featuring a 16-valve DOHC configuration, direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT), and integrated exhaust manifold, it produced 80 kW (109 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with peak torque available from 1,400 rpm.
Fitted to the X156 A-Class, Z177 CLA, and V177 GLA, the M 180.947 was engineered for city driving, stop-start operation, and low emissions. Its driving character emphasized immediate turbo response, smooth power delivery, and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing it to meet Euro 6c standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units (2018–2020). This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 01.0180.01, is linked to marginal oil flow to the upper tensioner during cold starts. From 2021, Mercedes-Benz introduced a revised tensioner with improved oil feed geometry and enhanced spring design to increase durability.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6c emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8902).
The Mercedes-Benz M 180.947 is a 1,332 cc inline-four turbocharged engine engineered for compact platforms (2018–2023). It combines a DOHC 16-valve architecture with direct injection and integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive low-end torque and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6c standards, it balances urban drivability with emissions compliance for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,332 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 79.7 mm | |
| Power output | 80 kW (109 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | HFM-SFI direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger with integrated exhaust manifold (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Single roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-40 MB 229.51 | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The turbocharged inline-four provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires consistent use of premium high-octane petrol (RON 95) to prevent pre-ignition and maintain turbocharger longevity. SAE 0W-40 MB 229.51 oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the timing chain and turbo bearings. Extended idle periods should be minimized to ensure consistent oil pressure to the upper engine. The BlueDIRECT fuel system demands high fuel quality; low-octane or high-ethanol blends can cause premature injector coking. Pre-2021 engines should be inspected for tensioner wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0180.01. Ignition system maintenance (plugs, coils) is essential to prevent misfires and catalytic converter damage.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-40 MB 229.51 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0180.01). Compatible with ACEA A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to all production years (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8902).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting RON 95 minimum (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A81520).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A81040, A81310, A81520, SIB 01.0180.01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8902)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 180.947 was used across Mercedes-Benz's X156/Z177/V177 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the V177 and modified intake manifolds in the Z177-and from 2021 the facelifted X156 models adopted revised turbocharger calibration for improved low-end response, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A81200). The 7th and 8th VIN digits indicate engine type ('14' for M180 series). Pre-2021 models have silver cam covers with black rubber hoses; post-2021 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M282: M180.947 has a front-mounted single roller chain with coil-on-plug ignition, while M282 uses a timing belt. Service parts require production date verification - tensioners for engines before 06/2020 are incompatible with later units due to internal oil feed and spring design revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0180.01).
The M 180.947's primary reliability risk is premature timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage, urban-driven vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2021 indicated a significant number of pre-2021 engines required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable rate of MoT failures due to exhaust emissions exceeding limits linked to valve timing drift. Sustained stop-start cycling and delayed oil changes increase chain and tensioner stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M180947.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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VCA Certification Portal
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