The Mercedes — Benz M 274.940 is a 1,991 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT), twin — scroll turbocharging, and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Delivering 155–180 kW (211–245 PS) and 350–370 Nm of torque, it provides responsive low — end power ideal for compact and mid — size luxury applications.
Fitted to models such as the W205 C — Class, W213 E — Class, and X156…
All production years (2013–2017) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M 274.940 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size luxury vehicles (2013–2017). It combines twin-scroll turbocharging with direct injection (BlueDIRECT) and variable valve timing to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive throttle characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with improved fuel economy over naturally aspirated predecessors.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
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 | Direct injection (BlueDIRECT), multi-hole injectors | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (integrated VVT) | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 164 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 274.940 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W213 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with AMG variants in high-performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W213 and revised intake manifolds in the X156-and from 2015 the facelifted W205 models adopted updated turbocharger actuators, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 274.940's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Daimler quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2015 engines requiring actuator replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased EGR and catalytic converter failures in vehicles with poor maintenance. Extended idling and low oil change frequency increase actuator and EGR stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2014–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M 274.940 delivers responsive performance and good efficiency, but early models (2013–2015) had reliability concerns, especially turbocharger actuator failures. Later revisions (post-2015) improved actuator durability, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (5W-30 MB 229.51) greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are turbocharger wastegate actuator failure (leading to boost loss), EGR valve clogging, and intake carbon buildup. Other complaints include ignition coil failures and occasional fuel injector deposits. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins.
This 2.0L turbocharged petrol was used in several compact and mid-size models during the 2013–2017 period. It powered the C-Class (W205 C250/C300), E-Class (W213 E300), GLC-Class (X156 GLC250/GLC300), and CLA-Class (C117 CLA250/CLA300). It replaced the M271 and was succeeded by the M264 in most applications.
Yes. The M274 responds well to ECU remapping, typically gaining +30–50 kW safely. The stock turbo and internals handle moderate over-boosting, but cooling and fuel system upgrades are recommended for higher stages. Tuning should preserve factory lambda control and timing to avoid reliability issues.
Efficient for a turbocharged petrol. In a C300 (W205), typical consumption is ~9.0 L/100km (city) and ~6.0 L/100km (highway), or about 31 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 30–38 mpg (UK) on mixed roads. Premium fuel (98 RON) is recommended for optimal performance.
Yes. The M274 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Chain maintenance and timely actuator replacement are critical to prevent this.
Mercedes specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting MB 229.51 specification. Always use a high-quality low-SAPS oil designed for turbocharged petrol engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper turbo and VVT lubrication.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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