The Mercedes-Benz M 271.950 is a 1,796 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a naturally aspirated design with twin overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. It delivers 115 kW (156 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, powering compact and mid-size models with a focus on smooth urban drivability.
Fitted primarily to the C-Class (W204), E-Class (W212), and CLC-Class (CL203), the M 271.950 was engineered for balanced performance and fuel efficiency in everyday driving. It replaced earlier M 271 variants with updated engine management (ME 7.8) and revised intake tuning. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi-port fuel injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalyst, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented update is the transition to revised piston rings and oil control systems from 2011, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 271.950-01-09-01. This revision reduced oil consumption in high-mileage units. Pre-2011 engines showed elevated oil usage in vehicles with frequent short trips, prompting the design change. Later models also adopted updated ECU calibration to improve cold-start emissions and idle stability.
All production years (2008–2015) comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M 271.950 is a 1,796 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and executive applications (2008–2015). It features naturally aspirated aspiration with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and strong mid-range response. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with everyday drivability.
| 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) | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3,000–4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (ME 7.8 ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, wear-resistant) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 136 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain piston ring and timing chain longevity. MB 229.5 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection for high-load components. Pre-2011 units may exhibit elevated oil consumption under frequent short-trip conditions; the 2011 revision with updated rings and oil control per SIB 271.950-01-09-01 mitigates this. Intake manifold flaps may carbon up over time, affecting idle quality. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to prevent head gasket stress under sustained load. Post-2011 ECU updates improved cold-start emissions and idle stability.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 271.950-01-09-01). Not compatible with lower-tier standards.
Emissions: All M 271.950 models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all model years and applications (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35726).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35725, A35726, SIB 271.950-01-09-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M 271.950 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/W212 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the C-Class and revised exhaust routing in the E-Class-and from 2011 the facelifted W204 models adopted updated piston rings and ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35729). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for M 271.950 series). This engine lacks a supercharger unit, distinguishing it from Kompressor variants. Critical differentiation: Pre-2011 units (up to 08/2010) use piston ring set #A2710100801; post-2011 units use #A2710101201 with improved oil control. Service parts require production date verification—piston kits before 09/2010 are incompatible with later cylinder bores due to revised ring tension and coating (Mercedes-Benz SIB 271.950-01-09-01).
The M 271.950's primary reliability concern is elevated oil consumption in pre-2011 models, with internal Mercedes quality reports from 2012 indicating over 12% of early units required piston ring service before 120,000 km. UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures in high-mileage units, particularly from carbon-fouled intake systems. Short-trip driving and extended oil intervals accelerate ring wear, making fluid quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2010-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M271950.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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