The Mercedes — Benz M 254.920 is a 1,991 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023. It powers mid — to — large Mercedes — Benz models including the C — Class, E — Class, and S — Class, delivering 190 kW (260 PS) and 370 Nm of torque. Featuring a DOHC 16 — valve configuration, twin — scroll turbocharger, and integrated 48V mild — hybrid system (EQ Boost), it combines performance with improved efficiency.
Fitted to longitudinal — platform vehicles su…
All production years 2017–2023 meet Euro 6d-FINAL standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9234).
The Mercedes-Benz M 254.920 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine developed for mid-to-large applications (2017–2023). It combines dual overhead camshafts and 16-valve architecture with direct injection and a 48V EQ Boost integrated starter-generator to deliver responsive performance and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d-FINAL emissions standards, it represents the evolution of Mercedes-Benz's modular petrol engine family with electrification.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 190 kW (260 PS) @ 6,100 rpm | |
Torque | 370 Nm @ 1,800–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (up to 200 bar) + port injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-FINAL | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner, water-cooled) | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | 0W-40 MB 229.52 | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 254.920 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W213/W222 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W222 and revised intake manifolds in the W213-and from 2020 the facelifted W206 adopted updated emissions calibrations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 254.920's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in track or high-load use. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 2019 reported a notable share of pre-2020 engines requiring HPFP 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. High-temperature cycles and extended idling increase turbo and fuel system stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2017-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M 254.920 offers strong performance and robust construction, but early models (2017–2019) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear. Later revisions (post-2020) improved durability with updated materials and cooling. When maintained properly—especially with timely oil changes using 0W-40 MB 229.52 oil—these engines can exceed 200,000 km. Regular inspection of intake manifolds and ignition components is advised.
The most documented issues are HPFP wear (causing hard starting), intake manifold vacuum leaks, ignition coil failures, and coolant leaks from thermostat housing. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Carbon buildup is less common due to dual injection but can occur with poor maintenance. Emissions components like catalytic converters are prone to degradation in short-trip usage.
This 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder was used exclusively in mid-to-large models: the W205 C 300 (2017–2021), W213 E 300 (2017–2023), and W222 S 350 (2018–2020). It was not used in any smaller platforms or licensed to other manufacturers. All applications featured rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC with 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Yes, the M 254.920 is tunable. ECU remapping can yield +30–50 kW by optimizing boost, fuel, and ignition maps. Aftermarket upgrades like performance exhaust and intercooler can enhance response. However, the 48V EQ Boost system limits extreme modifications. Stock internals are robust but reliability decreases significantly above 300 kW without forged components.
Fuel consumption is moderate for a performance four-cylinder. In an E 300, typical usage is ~8.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.0 L/100km (highway), or approximately 39.2 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, but expect 35–40 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions. The engine requires premium unleaded (RON 95) for optimal performance and knock prevention.
Yes. The M 254 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. The front-mounted double-row chain is robust but tensioner wear can occur. Any unusual front-end noise should be investigated immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.52 standard. This high-performance synthetic ensures proper turbo bearing and HPFP protection under load. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and component wear. Using incorrect viscosity or non-compliant oil can accelerate HPFP failure and void historical warranty claims.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.