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 GLC-Class – including the C250, C300, and GLC250 – the M 274.940 was engineered for a balance of performance, efficiency, and refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management, close-coupled catalytic converters, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, particularly in early production units. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 274.940-01/14, is attributed to thermal fatigue and actuator rod binding under repeated high-load conditions. In 2015, a revised actuator with improved thermal shielding and lubrication was introduced, significantly reducing failure incidence.
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 twin-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification oil to prevent turbo and VVT wear. MB 229.51 is critical due to its low-SAPS formulation and thermal stability, protecting the turbocharger and exhaust system. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates carbon buildup in the intake and EGR system. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards to ensure reliable operation of the BlueDIRECT injectors. Post-2015 models feature upgraded wastegate actuators; pre-2015 units should be inspected per SIB 274.940-01/14. EGR and catalytic converters require periodic monitoring to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes SIB 274.940-01/14). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (2013–2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 180 kW output requires premium 98 RON fuel (Daimler TIS Doc. A32005).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32150, A32240, A32512, SIB 274.940-01/14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of mass and power
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.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Daimler TIS A32180). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('2' for M274 series). Pre-2015 models have silver cam covers with black intake manifolds; post-2015 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M274.920: M274.940 has higher boost pressure and revised turbo actuator. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes SIB 274.940-01/14).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M274940.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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