The Mercedes-Benz M 272.940 is a 3,498 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It features a 24-valve, DOHC configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, delivering 180 kW (245 PS) and 310 Nm of torque. This naturally aspirated powerplant was engineered for smooth, refined performance in mid-luxury and executive applications, offering linear throttle response and strong mid-range pull.
Fitted primarily to the C-Class (W204), E-Class (W211, W212), and CLK-Class (C209), the M 272.940 was designed to balance performance with drivability in everyday conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi-port fuel injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalyst, meeting Euro 4 standards across its initial production run.
One documented update is the transition to revised intake manifold actuators and ECU calibration from 2008, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 272.940-01-07-01. Early units experienced intermittent misfires and rough idle due to carbon buildup and actuator sticking. The 2008 revision improved airflow control and idle stability, reducing emissions-related fault codes in urban driving cycles.
Production years 2005–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6543).
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.940 is a 3,498 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for executive and grand tourer applications (2005–2011). It combines naturally aspirated refinement with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with adequate performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 180 kW (245 PS) | |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 2,500–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (ME 7.8 ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2011) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain and hydraulic lifter longevity. MB 229.5 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection for high-load components. Pre-2008 units may suffer from intake manifold actuator sticking due to carbon buildup; the 2008 revision with updated actuators and ECU mapping per SIB 272.940-01-07-01 mitigates this. Fuel injectors may clog without periodic cleaning, affecting idle quality. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to prevent head gasket stress under sustained load. Post-2008 ECU updates improved idle stability and cold-start emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 272.940-01-07-01). Not compatible with lower-tier standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6543). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2011 models in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all model years and applications (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35731).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35730, A35731, SIB 272.940-01-07-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6543)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.940 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/W211/C209 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the E-Class and revised exhaust routing in the CLK-and from 2008 the facelifted W212 models adopted updated ECU mapping and actuator revisions, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35735). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for M 272 series). This engine lacks a supercharger or turbocharger, distinguishing it from forced-induction variants. Critical differentiation: Pre-2008 units (up to 07/2007) use intake actuator part #A2720000801; post-2008 units use #A2720001201 with improved sealing. Service parts require production date verification—actuators before 08/2007 are incompatible with later ECUs due to calibration differences (Mercedes-Benz SIB 272.940-01-07-01).
The M 272.940's primary reliability concern is intake manifold actuator failure in pre-2008 models, with internal Mercedes quality reports from 2009 indicating over 10% of early units required actuator replacement before 150,000 km. UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures in high-mileage units, particularly from carbon-fouled intake systems. Short-trip driving and extended oil intervals accelerate actuator wear, making fluid quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2006-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M272940.
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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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