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…
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 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.
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.
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The M 272.920 offers smooth performance and refinement, but early models (2004-2007) are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Later revisions (2008+) with updated tensioner design show improved durability. When maintained properly—using correct oil (MB 229.5) and adhering to service intervals—these engines can reliably exceed 180,000 km.
Key issues include timing chain tensioner failure, hydraulic lifter ticking, intake manifold flap cracking, and coolant leaks from the water pump. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and confirmed through UK DVSA inspection data.
The M 272.920 was used in longitudinal-platform models including the E-Class (W211), CLK-Class (C209), CLS-Class (C219), and ML-Class (W164) from 2004 to 2011. It powered E 280, E 350, CLK 350, and ML 350 variants, primarily in European and UK markets meeting Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards.
Limited tuning potential due to naturally aspirated design. ECU remapping can yield +15-25 kW gains, but stock intake and exhaust limit higher outputs. Supporting modifications (intake, exhaust, cam) are required for significant increases. Tuning should preserve fuel and temperature safety margins to avoid engine damage.
In combined driving, the M 272.920 achieves approximately 9.5–11.0 L/100km (25–30 mpg UK). Real-world consumption varies by model and driving style. The E 350 and CLK 350 typically return 28–32 mpg UK on mixed routes, while aggressive driving reduces efficiency significantly.
Yes. The M 272.920 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain tensioner and guides is essential to prevent costly repairs.
Mercedes specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This synthetic oil is critical for timing chain and hydraulic lifter longevity. Oil changes should be performed every 15,000 km or annually to maintain lubrication and overall engine health.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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