The Mercedes-Benz M 270.920 is a 1,991 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2016. It forms part of the modular M 270/M 274 engine family designed for transverse and longitudinal applications respectively. Featuring turbocharging, direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT), and variable valve timing (CAMTRONIC), it delivers responsive performance with improved fuel efficiency. Output ranges from 120 kW (163 PS) to 155 kW (211 PS), depending on application and calibration.
Fitted to models including the W246 B-Class, W176 A-Class, and X156 GLA-Class, the M 270.920 was engineered for compact and subcompact platforms emphasizing agility, refinement, and urban drivability. Its compact design and high specific output support Mercedes’ downsizing strategy while maintaining strong mid-range torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds, cooled EGR, and three-way catalysts, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run, with certain later models meeting Euro 6b standards.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), particularly under sustained high-load operation. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 270.920-01-01-13, is linked to inadequate lubrication when low-quality fuel is used. From 2014, revised pump materials and updated fuel system calibration were implemented across the M 270 series to improve durability.
Production years 2011–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2016 models comply with Euro 6b depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M 270.920 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact front-wheel-drive platforms (2011–2016). It combines BlueDIRECT direct injection with CAMTRONIC variable valve timing to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and improved combustion efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6b emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel economy in entry-level luxury applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 120–155 kW (163–211 PS) | |
| Torque | 250–350 Nm @ 1,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | BlueDIRECT direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5; later models Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, electric thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbocharger with wastegate | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The BlueDIRECT fuel system enables precise injection and strong low-end torque but requires high-octane fuel (95 RON minimum) to prevent knock and carbon buildup on intake valves. MB 229.51 oil is essential due to its shear stability and compatibility with turbo and timing chain components. Extended oil intervals beyond 15,000 km increase risk of HPFP wear, especially under frequent short trips. Direct injection leads to intake manifold coking over time, necessitating periodic cleaning. Post-2014 models benefit from revised HPFP design; earlier units should be monitored for fuel pressure faults. Emissions systems require regular catalyst monitoring to avoid DTCs related to lambda sensor performance.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 specification (Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 270.920-02-01-15). Not compatible with older MB 229.5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2011–2014 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6b compliance confirmed for 2015–2016 builds with updated catalyst and ECU mapping.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 155 kW output requires premium fuel (98 RON) and full service history (Daimler TIS Doc. M270.92-0015).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M270.00-1001, M270.92-2005, M270.92-3002, SB 270.920-01-01-13
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 20674:2013 - Road vehicles — Passenger car engines — Determination of power
The Mercedes-Benz M 270.920 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176/W246/X156 platforms with transverse mounting and shared design elements with the M 274 longitudinal variant. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the A-Class and enhanced cooling in GLA-Class SUV applications-and from 2015 the facelifted B-Class adopted revised ECU calibration for improved throttle response, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Daimler TIS M270.00-1001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for M 270 series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M 274: M 270.920 has transverse orientation with accessory drive on the right side, while M 274 is longitudinal with left-side drive. Service parts require model-year verification - HPFP and ECU variants differ between 2011-2013 and 2014-2016 builds due to emissions updates (Mercedes-Benz SB 270.920-01-01-13).
The M 270.920's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Internal Daimler quality reports from 2014 noted a significant portion of pre-2014 units requiring HPFP replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a notable share of fuel system-related MOT advisories to fuel trim faults in this engine family. Frequent short trips and low-octane fuel increase pump and injector stress, making fuel quality and oil change adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2011-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M270920.
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