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 t…
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 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.
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.
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The M 271.948 offers strong performance and linear power delivery, but pre-2010 models are prone to supercharger drive belt tensioner wear if oil changes are delayed or incorrect oil is used. Later models (2010+) feature upgraded tensioners that significantly improve durability. When maintained with MB 229.5 oil and 15,000 km service intervals, these engines can reliably exceed 180,000 km.
Key issues include supercharger drive belt tensioner wear (especially pre-2010), throttle body actuator faults, coolant leaks from plastic components, and ignition coil failures. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and supported by DVSA failure data. Regular maintenance using correct fluids prevents most problems.
The M 271.948 was used in the W204 C-Class (C 200 Kompressor, 2008–2012), W169 A-Class (A 200 Kompressor, 2008–2012), and W245 B-Class (B 200 Turbo, 2008–2012). It was phased out in favor of turbocharged M 270/M 274 engines. All variants are front-wheel drive with transverse engine layout.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remaps can yield +15–20 kW by optimizing throttle response and fuel maps, but gains are constrained by the fixed supercharger output. Intake/exhaust upgrades offer minor improvements. Over-tuning risks exceeding belt drive and bearing limits, especially on pre-2010 tensioners. Reliability-focused tuning is recommended.
In combined driving, expect 8.5–9.2 L/100km (31–34 mpg UK). Highway consumption is ~7.0 L/100km (~40 mpg UK), while city driving may reach 11.0 L/100km (~26 mpg UK). Real-world economy depends on driving style and condition. The ME 2.1 system optimizes fuel delivery but benefits from regular maintenance.
Yes. The M 271.948 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. The chain is durable when maintained, but any abnormal noise should prompt immediate inspection to avoid engine replacement.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This synthetic oil provides optimal protection for the supercharger drive system and timing components. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent accelerated wear, particularly on pre-2010 engines.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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