The Mercedes — Benz M271.956 is a 1,796 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a supercharged and intercooled design with variable valve timing (VVT) and multi — point fuel injection. This engine was developed for compact and executive segment applications, delivering 135 kW (184 PS) and 270 Nm of torque, offering strong mid — range performance suitable for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models including the W204 C — Class, W169 A — C…
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2015 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M271.956 is a 1,796 cc inline-four supercharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2008–2015). It combines Eaton M62 roots-type supercharger with intercooling and variable valve timing to deliver responsive mid-range power. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with moderate fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Supercharged (Eaton M62) with air-to-air intercooler | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
Power output | 135 kW (184 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,500–4,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2015) | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Supercharger | Eaton M62 roots-type (1.0 bar max boost) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, tensioner-regulated) | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M271.956 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W169/W204 platforms with transverse mounting and adapted for front-wheel-drive applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A-Class and revised engine mounts in the C-Class-and from 2012 the facelifted C204 received updated bypass actuators, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M271.956's primary reliability risk is supercharger bypass valve actuator wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2013 noted a significant share of pre-2012 engines requiring actuator replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage units. Stop-start cycles and extended idling increase thermal stress on supercharger components, making coolant and oil maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M271.956 delivers responsive performance and good reliability when properly maintained. Early models (2008–2011) had higher incidence of supercharger actuator wear, but post-2012 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes (15,000 km) using MB 229.51 (5W-40) and coolant system maintenance are critical. Well-serviced engines regularly exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The most documented issues are supercharger bypass valve actuator failure, intake carbon buildup, coolant leaks from thermostat housing, and valve cover oil seepage. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and field reports. Actuator and thermostat housing failures are more common in pre-2012 models, while carbon buildup affects all variants over time.
This 1.8L supercharged petrol engine was used in the A-Class (W169), B-Class (W245), and C-Class (W204) from 2008–2015. It powered the C 180 Kompressor and C 200 Kompressor trims. Mitsubishi also used a licensed version in select Lancer models (2009–2013). Applications vary by market and emissions standard (Euro 4/Euro 5).
Yes, but with limitations. ECU remaps can yield +20–30 kW on stage 1, but gains are constrained by the fixed-displacement Eaton M62 supercharger. Intercooler upgrades help reduce heat soak. Over-tuning risks premature actuator or bearing failure. Supporting modifications (upgraded intercooler, exhaust) are recommended for sustained performance use.
Moderate. In a C 200 Kompressor (W204), combined consumption is ~8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK). City driving may see 10–11 L/100km (26–25 mpg), while highway runs can achieve ~7.0 L/100km (40 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 28–35 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions for a healthy engine.
Yes. The M271 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. The chain is maintenance-free but should be inspected for wear if noise occurs. Immediate attention to rattling or timing-related DTCs is essential.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-shear-stability oil is critical for supercharger bearing protection and thermal management. Oil changes every 15,000 km or annually are required to maintain longevity and prevent sludge or actuator wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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