The Mercedes-Benz M273.969 is a 5,461 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It features a 90-degree V8 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 225 kW (306 PS) and 460 Nm of torque, providing strong linear power delivery ideal for grand touring applications.
Fitted to flagship models including the W221 S-Class, W211 E-Class, and R230 SL-Class, the M273.969 was engineered for smooth, refined performance and effortless cruising at high speeds. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronically controlled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), catalytic converters, and oxygen sensor feedback systems, enabling Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft adjusters, which can lead to timing misalignment and rough running. This issue, detailed in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07/2010 (Ref. 273.969-0701), is attributed to oil flow restrictions in early adjuster designs. From 2009, revised cam adjusters with improved oil passages were implemented across the M273 engine family.
All production years 2006–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M273.969 is a 5,461 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for luxury and performance sedans and coupes (2006–2011). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust to deliver smooth power delivery and high-speed refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with emissions control for European markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 460 Nm @ 2,700–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 202 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5 specification oil to prevent camshaft adjuster wear. Using lower-specification oils or extended intervals can accelerate degradation of the hydraulic cam adjusters. Fuel quality is critical—minimum 95 RON unleaded petrol must be used to prevent pre-ignition and knock sensor intervention. Intake manifold gaskets and valve cover seals are prone to age-related leaks; pre-2009 models should be inspected for early cam adjuster faults per SIB 07/2010. Emissions systems require functional oxygen sensors and catalytic converters to remain within Euro 4 limits.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07/2010). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2006–2011 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A32010).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31572, A31891, SIB 07/2010
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M273.969 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211, W221, and R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning in the E-Class and revised engine mounts in the S-Class-and from 2009 the updated camshaft adjusters were introduced, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A31572). The 8th digit of the VIN identifies the engine family ('E' for M273 series). Pre-2009 models use silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2009 units retain the same appearance but feature revised cam adjusters. Critical differentiation from M273.966: M273.969 has a 5.5L displacement (bore 98.0 mm), while M273.966 is 5.0L (bore 94.6 mm). Service parts require VIN verification—cam adjusters for pre-2009 builds are not interchangeable with post-2009 revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07/2010).
The M273.969's primary reliability risk is camshaft adjuster wear on pre-2009 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2011 indicated a significant portion of pre-2009 engines required adjuster replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures linked to EGR and oxygen sensor faults in high-mileage units. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality fuel exacerbate adjuster and fuel system wear, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M273969.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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