The Mercedes-Benz M 271.948 is a 1,796 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It features a supercharged (Kompressor) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and electronic fuel injection (EFI), delivering 135 kW (184 PS) and 270 Nm of torque. Its forced-induction architecture provided sporty throttle response and linear power delivery, making it ideal for performance-oriented compact and mid-size applications.
Fitted to models including the W204 C-Class, W169 A-Class, and W169 B-Class, the M 271.948 was engineered for dynamic driving characteristics with strong mid-range torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the supercharger drive belt tensioner, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 08-2010. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication of the tensioner bearing under high thermal load and extended service intervals. From 2010, a revised tensioner with improved sealing and bearing materials was introduced to enhance durability.
All production years (2008–2012) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M 271.948 is a 1,796 cc inline-four supercharged petrol engine engineered for performance applications (2008–2012). It combines a Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger with variable valve timing to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty character with regulated efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Supercharged (Kompressor) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 135 kW (184 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,000–4,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi-point fuel injection (ME 2.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Supercharger | Lysholm-type twin-screw (IHI unit, 0.8 bar boost) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The supercharged design provides strong mid-RPM torque ideal for spirited driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent supercharger and tensioner wear. MB 229.5 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its high-shear stability and thermal protection for the Kompressor unit. Extended idling or aggressive warm-up cycles increase thermal stress on the belt drive system. Fuel quality must meet minimum 95 RON to prevent knock and maintain ECU calibration. Post-2010 models feature upgraded tensioners; pre-2010 units should be inspected per SIB 08-2010. The ME 2.1 engine management system requires OEM-level diagnostics for adaptation resets.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 08-2010). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: All M 271.948 engines comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789), verified for UK and EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains stable with 98 RON fuel (Daimler TIS Doc. A32600).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32150, A32510, SIB 08-2010
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test procedure for measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 271.948 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/W169 platforms with transverse mounting and adapted for front-wheel-drive applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the A-Class and revised accessory drives in the C-Class-and from 2010 the Euro 5-compliant B-Class variants adopted updated catalytic converters, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Daimler TIS A32175). The 7th and 8th VIN digits indicate engine type ('1C' for M 271.948). Pre-2010 models have silver cam covers with black intake manifolds; post-2010 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M 271.860: M 271.948 includes a supercharger (Kompressor) mounted at the front with a serpentine belt drive. Service parts require model-year verification—tensioners before 08/2010 are incompatible with later upgraded units (Mercedes-Benz SIB 08-2010).
The M 271.948's primary reliability risk is supercharger drive belt tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-ambient-temperature operation. Internal Daimler reports from 2011 noted a significant share of pre-2010 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show belt-related faults contributing to driveability failures in high-mileage vehicles. Aggressive warm-up cycles and infrequent oil changes increase wear risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2009–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M271948.
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