The Mercedes — Benz M271.820 is a 1,796 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2011. It features a DOHC 16 — valve configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) and electronic fuel injection, delivering 115 kW (156 PS) and 230 Nm of torque. This engine was engineered for balanced performance and efficiency in compact and mid — size platforms.
Fitted to models such as the W203 C — Class, W204 C — Class, and W245 B — Class, the M271.820 was designed for everyday dr…
Production years 2004–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2011 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M271.820 is a 1,796 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2004–2011). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive urban performance and stable highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and market-specific Euro 5) standards, it balances drivability with regulated emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
Power output | 115 kW (156 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
Torque | 230 Nm @ 3,000–4,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (ME 2.8 ECU) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2009); Euro 5 (2009–2011, market-dependent) | |
Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, non-interference) | |
Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M271.820 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W203/W204 platforms with longitudinal mounting and adapted for transverse applications in the W245 B-Class. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the W245 and revised engine mounts in the W204-and from 2009 the updated W204 facelift adopted revised camshafts and oil specifications, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M271.820's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving and extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2011 indicated a significant portion of pre-2009 engines required camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable share of emissions-related MOT failures linked to catalytic converter degradation in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and low-RPM operation increase valve train stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M271.820 offers smooth performance and adequate efficiency, but early models (2004–2008) are prone to intake camshaft wear if oil changes are delayed. Later revisions (post-2009) feature improved camshafts and oil specs, enhancing durability. Well-maintained engines with regular servicing and MB 229.5 oil can reliably exceed 200,000 km.
Primary issues include intake camshaft lobe wear (especially pre-2009), throttle body faults causing limp mode, coolant leaks from water pump or thermostat, and ignition coil failures. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and verified through technical workshops and DVSA data.
This 1.8L petrol engine was used in the W203 C-Class (C 180 Kompressor), W204 C-Class (C 180), W245 B-Class (B 180), and Smart Forfour (1.8 MHD). It was phased out after 2011, replaced by turbocharged M270/M274 engines. Compatibility varies by model year and emissions standard.
Limited potential. As a naturally aspirated engine, ECU remapping yields minimal gains (typically +5–10 kW). Performance upgrades like intake/exhaust or camshafts are rare and often cost-ineffective. The design prioritizes refinement over tunability, so modifications are generally not recommended.
Moderate. In a W204 C 180 (2008), combined consumption is ~7.8 L/100km (~36 mpg UK). City driving may see 9–10 L/100km, while highway runs can achieve 6.5–7.0 L/100km. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 32–38 mpg UK on mixed routes for a well-maintained unit.
No. The M271.820 uses a non-interference timing chain design. If the chain fails or jumps, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, immediate repair is still required to avoid valve timing issues and drivability problems.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This synthetic oil is critical for protecting the variable valve timing system and preventing camshaft lobe wear. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months to ensure long-term reliability.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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