The Mercedes-Benz M274.920 is a 1,991 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (CAMTRONIC), and direct fuel injection (CGI). In its standard output form, it delivers 155 kW (211 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, providing responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency over naturally aspirated predecessors.
Fitted to models including the W205 C-Class, W213 E-Class, and X156 GLC, the M274.920 was engineered for mainstream luxury applications requiring a balance of refinement, performance, and emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 5 compliance across all production years, with later units meeting Euro 6 depending on market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), particularly in early production units. This issue, detailed in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 274.920-01-12, is attributed to inadequate lubrication and thermal stress on internal components. In 2014, revised fuel pump assemblies with improved materials and oil feed geometry were introduced to enhance reliability.
Production years 2011–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2017 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M274.920 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size platforms (2011–2017). It combines CGI direct injection with CAMTRONIC variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with improved fuel economy over larger naturally aspirated engines.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 155–180 kW (211–245 PS) | |
| Torque | 350–370 Nm @ 1,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | CGI direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (rear-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The turbocharged inline-four provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to prevent high-pressure fuel pump and turbocharger wear. Use of incorrect oil viscosity or extended intervals can accelerate HPFP 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-2014 models feature revised fuel pumps; pre-2014 units should be inspected per Service Bulletin 274.920-01-12. EGR and intake manifolds are prone to carbon buildup in short-trip driving, necessitating periodic cleaning.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 274.920-01-12). Supersedes ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2011–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 6 compliance applies to 2015–2017 models in applicable markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 180 kW output requires premium fuel (98 RON) and specific ECU calibration (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A42010).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A42005, A42010, SIB 274.920-01-12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M274.920 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W213/X156 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the GLC and revised cooling routing in the E-Class-and from 2015 the facelifted W205 models adopted updated fuel pump designs, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A42008). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M274 series). Pre-2014 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2014 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M274.921: M274.920 has a single twin-scroll turbocharger and lower compression ratio. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pump kits for engines before 08/2014 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 274.920-01-12).
The M274.920's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2014 engines requiring fuel pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in infrequently driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase HPFP and turbo stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2012–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M274920.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
