The Mercedes-Benz M274.930 is a 1,991 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2017. It features direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT), turbocharging, and variable valve timing (CAMTRONIC), delivering 155 kW (211 PS) and 350 Nm of torque. This engine was engineered for transverse installation in compact and mid-size platforms, offering a balance of responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency over naturally aspirated predecessors.
Fitted to models including the W204 C-Class, W176 A-Class, and W246 B-Class, the M274.930 was designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards through precise charge control and exhaust aftertreatment. Its compact design supports front-wheel-drive architecture while maintaining driving dynamics expected in the C-Class. The integration of CAMTRONIC variable valve lift allows optimized breathing across the rev range, enhancing both low-end torque and high-RPM efficiency.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 274.930-01-01-12. This issue leads to fuel pressure fluctuations, causing misfires or cold-start hesitation. From 2014, revised HPFP units with upgraded internal rollers were introduced, reducing failure incidence in later production models.
All M274.930 engines comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M274.930 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine developed for transverse applications in compact and executive segments (2011–2017). It combines turbocharging, direct injection (BlueDIRECT), and CAMTRONIC variable valve lift to deliver strong torque and improved efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it replaced naturally aspirated M271 variants in key model lines.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve with CAMTRONIC | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (BorgWarner) with air-to-air intercooler | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (BlueDIRECT), multi-hole injectors | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | BorgWarner KP39 variable turbine geometry (VTG) | |
| Supercharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, tensioner-regulated) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The BorgWarner VTG turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using MB 229.51 (5W-40) to protect turbo bearings and high-pressure fuel pump. The BlueDIRECT system demands high fuel quality (minimum 95 RON) to prevent injector coking. CAMTRONIC components are sensitive to oil degradation, making timely oil changes critical. Post-2014 models feature revised HPFP with improved roller durability; pre-2014 units should be monitored for cold-start hesitation. Intercooler efficiency should be verified to avoid heat soak under sustained load.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 274.930-01-01-12). Not compatible with lower-specification oils.
Emissions: All M274.930 engines comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6 variants exist for this code.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output assumes 98 RON fuel and ambient temperature of 20°C (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A37251).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37211, A37251, SIB 274.930-01-01-12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power of internal combustion engines
The Mercedes-Benz M274.930 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W176/W204 platforms with transverse mounting and adapted for front-wheel-drive applications. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-shorter intake runners in the A-Class and revised engine mounts in the C-Class-and from 2014 the facelifted W204 received updated high-pressure fuel pumps, 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 oil filter housing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A37211). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M274 series). Pre-2014 models have silver turbo housings with ribbed intercooler piping; post-2014 units use black housings with smoother ducting. Critical differentiation from M271: M274.930 features a prominent turbocharger and direct injection components on the cylinder head. Service parts require production date verification - HPFP units before 04/2014 are incompatible with later models due to internal roller redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 274.930-01-01-12).
The M274.930's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage units. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2015 noted a significant share of pre-2014 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in city-driven vehicles. Extended idling and poor fuel quality increase carbon loading on injectors and VTG components, making oil and fuel maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2011-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M274930.
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