The Mercedes-Benz M271.954 is a 1,796 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a turbocharged and intercooled design with multi-point fuel injection and double overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine delivers 150 kW (204 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, primarily used in compact and mid-size executive vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the W204 C-Class, W204 C-Class SportCoupé, and X204 GLK-Class, the M271.954 was engineered for responsive performance and balanced efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, enabling Euro 5 compliance for all production years depending on market specifications.
One documented concern is premature wear of the turbocharger wastegate actuator, noted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 12-05-01/12. This issue can lead to incorrect boost pressure regulation and reduced engine performance. From 2011, revised actuator components were introduced alongside updated engine management calibration to improve reliability.
All production years (2008–2015) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Mercedes-Benz M271.954 is a 1,796 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact executive applications (2008-2015). It combines BorgWarner K16 turbocharger technology with intercooling and sequential multi-point injection to deliver immediate throttle response and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty character with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (BorgWarner K16) with air-to-liquid intercooler | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME 9.7 control system) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (BorgWarner K16) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, non-interchangeable guides) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The BorgWarner K16 turbocharger provides strong low-end torque and responsive power delivery ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. Use of non-compliant oil can accelerate wear in the chain tensioner and guide system. The turbocharger wastegate actuator is prone to wear; any hesitation or boost fluctuation should prompt inspection per SIB 12-05-01/12. Fuel quality is critical—premium unleaded (RON 98) is recommended to maintain knock sensor margins and prevent long-term combustion chamber deposits. Post-2011 revisions improved actuator durability and ECU mapping for smoother operation.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12-05-01/12). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: All production models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Full output requires RON 98 fuel (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A31056).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31056, A31201, SIB 12-05-01/12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M271.954 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/X204 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the X204 and revised cooling routing in the W204-and from 2011 the facelifted W204 models adopted updated engine management and actuator hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A31101). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('A' for M271 series). Pre-2011 models have silver valve covers with green intake manifolds; post-2011 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M271.921: Original M271.954 uses BorgWarner K16 turbocharger with wastegate actuator on exhaust side, while M271.921 uses Eaton M62 supercharger with bypass actuator on intake side. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 03/2011 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12-05-01/12).
The M271.954's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates and stop-start urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2013 indicated over 12% of pre-2011 units required actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable share of emissions-related MOT failures linked to boost control faults. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality increase turbocharger and timing system stress, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2009-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M271954.
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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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