The Mercedes-Benz M 272.969 is a 5,461 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It belongs to the advanced M 272 engine family developed for high-performance luxury platforms including the S-Class, CL-Class, and SL-Class. Featuring variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, direct and port fuel injection (TWINJET), and a dual-mass flywheel, it delivers smooth power delivery and enhanced combustion efficiency. In standard form it produced 315 kW (428 PS), with torque output of 600 Nm, making it one of the most refined naturally aspirated V8s of its era.
Fitted to flagship models such as the W221 S-Class, C216 CL-Class, and R230 SL-Class, the M 272.969 was engineered for rear-wheel-drive or 4MATIC applications emphasizing effortless acceleration, silent operation, and long-distance comfort. Its 90-degree V8 architecture with dry-sump lubrication in AMG-tuned variants supports high-speed stability and reduced vibration. 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, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 272.969-01-01-09, is linked to insufficient oil pressure during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. From 2009, revised tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration were implemented across the M 272 series to improve durability.
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4570).
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.969 is a 5,461 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for longitudinal flagship platforms (2006–2011). It combines TWINJET direct and port 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 high performance with refinement in luxury applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
| Power output | 315 kW (428 PS) | |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 2,800–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | TWINJET direct and multi-point port injection (up to 120 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4; later models Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, electric thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 design provides linear power delivery ideal for grand touring 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-2009 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2009 units should have the tensioner upgrade per Mercedes-Benz SB 272.969-01-01-09. 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 272.969-02-01-11). Not compatible with older MB 229.3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2006–2008 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4570). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2009–2011 builds with updated catalyst and ECU mapping.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 315 kW output requires premium fuel (98 RON) and full service history (Daimler TIS Doc. M272.96-0016).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M272.00-1002, M272.96-2006, M272.96-3003, SB 272.969-01-01-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4570)
ISO 20674:2013 - Road vehicles — Passenger car engines — Determination of power
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.969 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221/C216/R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design elements with the M 272 family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-enhanced cooling in the SL-Class and revised intake tracts in the S-Class-and from 2009 the facelifted CL-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 M272.00-1002). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for M 272 series). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2009 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M 273.769: M 272.969 is naturally aspirated, while M 273.769 includes a Lysholm-type supercharger. Service parts require model-year verification - timing kits and ECUs differ between 2006-2008 and 2009-2011 builds due to emissions updates (Mercedes-Benz SB 272.969-01-01-09).
The M 272.969's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner degradation, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Internal Daimler quality reports from 2008 noted a significant portion of pre-2009 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 (2006-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M272969.
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