The Mercedes-Benz M271.955 is a 1,798 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features multi-point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and an aluminium block with iron liners, delivering 115 kW (156 PS) and 230 Nm of torque. This engine uses a timing chain with a hydraulic tensioner, designed for long service intervals and improved durability in mixed driving conditions.
Fitted to the C-Class (W204), CLK-Class (C207), and E-Class (W212) — including the C 200 Kompressor, CLK 200 Kompressor, and E 200 Kompressor — the M271.955 was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in mid-size executive cars. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing Euro 5 compliance from launch, with certain markets receiving updated calibrations to meet early Euro 6 thresholds.
One documented concern is premature wear of the balance shaft drive chain in high-mileage applications, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 271.955/11. This issue, linked to inadequate lubrication flow in early production units, could lead to timing noise or chain failure. In 2012, Mercedes introduced a revised oil jet and guide rail assembly, significantly reducing field reports of balance shaft faults according to internal Daimler quality audits.
All production years (2008–2015) meet Euro 5 standards; select 2013–2015 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz M271.955 is a 1,798 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size executive vehicles (2008–2015). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver smooth performance and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 and select Euro 6 emissions standards, it prioritises refinement and long-term reliability in mixed driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 115 kW (156 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2008–2012); Euro 6 (select markets, 2013–2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Roller chain (lifetime tensioner; inspect at 180,000 km) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth and predictable power delivery ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 180,000 km inspection intervals for the timing chain. MB 229.5 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and compatibility with the SOHC valvetrain. Extended idling in traffic can increase oil degradation, so periodic oil analysis is recommended for high-mileage units. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of 95 RON or higher petrol is mandatory to prevent knock and sensor faults. Post-2012 models feature upgraded balance shaft oil jets; pre-2012 units should have the revised kit installed per SIB 271.955/11. Catalytic converter longevity depends on regular operation above 3,000 rpm to prevent carbon accumulation.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 271.955/11). Not compatible with lower-tier MB 229.3 or non-approved synthetics.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2008–2015). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2013–2015 models in EU markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades meeting 95 RON minimum (Mercedes-Benz TIS A171001).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A171001, A171105, A171200, SIB 271.955/11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 8855:2011 Road Vehicles — Vehicle Dynamics and Chassis Components — Vocabulary
The Mercedes-Benz M271.955 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/C207/W212 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Mercedes-Benz executive car initiatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the C-Class and revised exhaust routing in the E-Class-and from 2013 the facelifted W204 models adopted Euro 6-compliant calibration, creating emissions-related interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A171001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('N' for M271.955). Pre-2012 models have silver cam covers with 'Kompressor' branding; post-2012 units use revised balance shaft assemblies with serial number traceability. Critical differentiation from M271.946: M271.955 is naturally aspirated with MPFI; M271.946 is turbocharged with direct injection. Service parts require model-year verification — balance shaft components for pre-2012 engines are incompatible with post-2012 revisions due to lubrication redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 271.955/11).
The M271.955's primary reliability risk is balance shaft drive chain wear in high-mileage applications, with elevated incidence in southern European and Middle Eastern markets. Internal Daimler quality reports from 2013 noted a significant number of pre-2012 engines requiring balance shaft repairs before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show auxiliary drive failures as a contributing factor in MOT rejections for vehicles over 10 years old. Infrequent long-distance driving and delayed maintenance increase chain stress, making adherence to 10-year inspection intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M271955.
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