The Mercedes-Benz M270.910 is a 1,991 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2017. It features turbocharging, direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT), and variable valve timing (CAMTRONIC), delivering responsive performance with improved fuel efficiency. This engine was part of Mercedes' modular engine family, enabling scalable production across compact and mid-size platforms.
Fitted to models such as the W204 C-Class, W246 B-Class, and W176 A-Class, the M270.910 was engineered for balanced driving dynamics—offering strong low-end torque and smooth refinement in urban and highway conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear, particularly in early-build units, as noted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 203070/13. This issue is often linked to extended oil change intervals and thermal stress on the ball-bearing turbo assembly. From 2014, revised oil cooling pathways and updated turbocharger hardware were introduced to improve reliability.
Production years 2011–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2017 models comply with Euro 6b depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M270.910 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbo petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2011–2017). It combines turbocharging with BlueDIRECT direct injection to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6b standards, it balances performance with emissions efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve with CAMTRONIC | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 115–155 kW (156–211 PS) | |
| Torque | 250–350 Nm @ 1,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | BlueDIRECT direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2011–2015); Euro 6b (2016–2017) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, electric coolant pump | |
| Turbocharger | Single ball-bearing turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (lower and upper), non-interference design | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The ball-bearing turbo provides rapid boost response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent bearing wear and oil coking. MB 229.51 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and compatibility with the turbocharger and variable valve train. Extended idling after high-load operation should be avoided to reduce heat soak. BlueDIRECT injectors are sensitive to fuel quality; use of premium unleaded (RON 98) is recommended to minimise carbon buildup. Post-2014 models feature improved oil cooling; pre-2014 units benefit from auxiliary oil coolers in high-temperature climates. Three-way catalyst longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor function and avoidance of oil/fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 203070/13). Supersedes ACEA C3 and is formulated for direct-injection turbo engines.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2011–2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6b compliance from 2016 varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 155 kW output requires premium fuel (RON 98) and full engine warm-up (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. 640.00-E-100600).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 640.00-E-100100, 640.00-E-100200, SIB 203070/13
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test method for fuel consumption in urban traffic
The Mercedes-Benz M270.910 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176/W246/W204 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Renault-Nissan under engine partnership agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A-Class and revised cooling in the C-Class-and from 2015 the facelifted B-Class W246 LCI adopted the M270DE20 with updated turbo calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Renault's 1.6L turbo units to share turbo and injection hardware. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS 640.00-E-100800). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M270 series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2014 units use gloss black. Critical differentiation from M270DE20: Original M270.910 uses Bosch MED 17.8.8 ECU with 120-pin connector, while M270DE20 uses MED 17.8.21 with 144-pin. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators for pre-2014 models are incompatible with later units due to control linkage redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 203070/13).
The M270.910's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 engines requiring turbo replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst failures linked to oil contamination in poorly maintained units. Short-trip operation and delayed oil changes increase thermal stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M270910.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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