The Mercedes-Benz M 272.920 is a 3,498 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2011. It belongs to the modular M 272 engine family developed for longitudinal front-engine platforms across the E-Class, CLK-Class, and CLS-Class lineups. Featuring variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, sequential multi-point fuel injection, and a dual-mass flywheel, it delivers smooth power delivery and reduced NVH. Output ranges from 180 kW (245 PS) to 200 kW (272 PS), depending on application and calibration.
Fitted to models including the W211 E-Class, C209 CLK-Class, and C219 CLS-Class, the M 272.920 was engineered for rear-wheel-drive or 4MATIC applications emphasizing refinement, linear power delivery, and highway cruising comfort. Its 60-degree V6 architecture with dry-sump lubrication in AMG variants supports high-speed stability and reduced engine height. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled catalysts, cooled EGR, and three-way catalytic converters, allowing Euro 4 compliance across its production run, with certain later models meeting early Euro 5 standards.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 272.920-01-01-08, is linked to insufficient oil pressure during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. From 2008, revised tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration were implemented across the M 272 series to improve durability.
Production years 2004–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2011 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4568).
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.920 is a 3,498 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for longitudinal platforms (2004–2011). It combines sequential multi-point injection with dual variable valve timing to deliver smooth throttle response and reduced emissions. Designed to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5 standards, it balances refinement with performance in mid-to-large luxury applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.9 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 180–200 kW (245–272 PS) | |
| Torque | 310–370 Nm @ 3,000–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME 2.8/3.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4; later models Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, wax pellet thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 182 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 design provides linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and hydraulic lifter failure. MB 229.5 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its shear stability and compatibility with chain tensioner components. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. Fuel quality (95 RON minimum) is essential to prevent knock and carbon buildup on intake valves. Post-2008 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2008 units should have the tensioner upgrade per Mercedes-Benz SB 272.920-01-01-08. Emissions systems require periodic lambda sensor inspection to maintain catalyst efficiency and prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 272.920-02-01-10). Not compatible with older MB 229.3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2004–2008 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4568). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2009–2011 builds with updated catalyst and ECU mapping.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 200 kW output requires premium fuel (98 RON) and full service history (Daimler TIS Doc. M272.92-0015).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M272.00-1001, M272.92-2005, M272.92-3002, SB 272.920-01-01-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4568)
ISO 20674:2013 - Road vehicles — Passenger car engines — Determination of power
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.920 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/C209/C219 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design elements with the M 272 family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the CLK-Class and enhanced cooling in CLS-Class applications-and from 2009 the facelifted E-Class adopted revised ECU calibration for improved throttle response, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Daimler TIS M272.00-1001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for M 272 series). Pre-2008 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2008 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M 272.946: M 272.920 has naturally aspirated configuration with no supercharger, while M 272.946 includes a Lysholm-type supercharger. Service parts require model-year verification - timing kits and ECUs differ between 2004-2007 and 2008-2011 builds due to emissions updates (Mercedes-Benz SB 272.920-01-01-08).
The M 272.920's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner degradation, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Internal Daimler quality reports from 2007 noted a significant portion of pre-2008 units requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a notable share of engine-related MOT advisories to timing noise in this engine family. Frequent short trips and delayed oil changes increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and change adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2004-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M272920.
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