The Mercedes-Benz M 272.988 is a 3,498 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2017. It features a 24-valve, DOHC configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, delivering 225 kW (306 PS) and 360 Nm of torque. This naturally aspirated powerplant was engineered for refined, high-speed performance in executive and luxury applications, offering smooth throttle response and strong mid-range pull.
Fitted primarily to the E-Class (W212), CLS-Class (C218), and S-Class (W221), the M 272.988 was designed for balanced performance and comfort in premium sedans and coupes. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi-port fuel injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalyst, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented update is the transition to revised ignition coil design and ECU calibration from 2013, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 272.988-01-10-01. Early units experienced intermittent coil failure due to heat soak and voltage stress. The 2013 revision improved thermal shielding and internal winding insulation, reducing misfire-related fault codes and improving long-term reliability in hot climates.
All production years (2009–2017) comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.988 is a 3,498 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for executive and luxury applications (2009–2017). It combines naturally aspirated refinement with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with elevated 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 | 225 kW (306 PS) | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 2,500–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (ME 7.8 ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| 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-2013 units may suffer from ignition coil degradation due to heat exposure; the 2013 revision with updated coils and ECU mapping per SIB 272.988-01-10-01 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-2013 ECU updates improved idle stability and cold-start emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 272.988-01-10-01). Not compatible with lower-tier standards.
Emissions: All M 272.988 models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all model years and applications (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35761).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35760, A35761, SIB 272.988-01-10-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M 272.988 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212/C218/W221 platforms with longitudinal mounting and paired with 7G-Tronic transmission. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the E-Class and revised exhaust routing in the CLS-and from 2013 the facelifted W212 models adopted updated ignition coils and ECU mapping, 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 A35764). 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-2013 units (up to 12/2012) use ignition coil part #A2720030801; post-2013 units use #A2720031201 with improved thermal shielding. Service parts require production date verification—coils before 01/2013 are incompatible with later ECUs due to calibration differences (Mercedes-Benz SIB 272.988-01-10-01).
The M 272.988's primary reliability concern is ignition coil degradation in pre-2013 models, with internal Mercedes quality reports from 2014 indicating over 8% of early units required coil replacement before 150,000 km. UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures in high-mileage units, particularly from carbon-fouled intake systems. Extended oil intervals and high-temperature operation accelerate coil failure, making fluid quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2011-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M272988.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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