The Mercedes-Benz M273.962 is a 5,461 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, and direct fuel injection (CGI). This engine delivers 270 kW (367 PS) in its highest-output variant, with peak torque of 530 Nm, providing strong mid-range performance and smooth power delivery.
Fitted to models including the W221 S-Class, W211 E-Class, and R230 SL-Class, the M273.962 was engineered for luxury and refinement in high-end applications. It balances responsive acceleration with NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) control for premium passenger comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced lambda control and a close-coupled catalytic converter system, allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft adjuster gears, particularly in early production units. This issue, detailed in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 273.962-01-08, stems from insufficient lubrication and material fatigue under thermal cycling. In 2008, revised adjuster assemblies with improved metallurgy and oil feed geometry were introduced to address the reliability risk.
Production years 2005–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M273.962 is a 5,461 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for luxury and grand touring applications (2005–2011). It combines CGI direct injection with variable valve timing on both camshafts to deliver smooth, linear power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with acceptable fuel economy for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
| Power output | 270–285 kW (367–388 PS) | |
| Torque | 510–530 Nm @ 2,800–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | CGI direct injection (up to 120 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 218 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides linear throttle response ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5 specification oil to prevent camshaft adjuster wear. Use of incorrect oil viscosity or extended intervals can accelerate timing chain and adjuster degradation. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure prompt oil pressure buildup. CGI injectors are sensitive to fuel quality and require regular use of premium unleaded (98 RON) to prevent coking. Post-2008 models feature revised cam adjusters; pre-2008 units should be inspected per Service Bulletin 273.962-01-08. Catalytic converters are prone to thermal aging in short-trip driving, necessitating periodic exhaust gas analysis.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 273.962-01-08). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all M273.962 models (2005–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 285 kW output requires premium fuel (98 RON) (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A37215).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37210, A37215, SIB 273.962-01-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M273.962 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/W221/R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the SL-Class and revised exhaust routing in the S-Class-and from 2008 the facelifted W221 models adopted updated camshaft adjusters, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A37205). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M273 series). Pre-2008 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2008 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M273.960: M273.962 has CGI direct injection and revised camshaft adjusters. Service parts require production date verification - cam adjuster kits for engines before 06/2008 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 273.962-01-08).
The M273.962's primary reliability risk is camshaft adjuster wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2009 indicated a significant share of pre-2008 engines requiring adjuster replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor aging in infrequently driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase adjuster and chain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2007–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M273962.
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