The Mercedes-Benz M275.980 is a 5,980 cc, V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2013. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, and multi-point fuel injection (MPE). In standard form it delivered 386 kW (525 PS), with torque output of 830 Nm, providing effortless power delivery and exceptional refinement for flagship applications.
Fitted to the W221 S-Class and R230 SL-Class, the M275.980 was engineered for ultimate luxury and performance, serving as the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's petrol engine lineup during its production run. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual close-coupled catalytic converters and advanced lambda control, allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years, with later models meeting Euro 5 standards in certain markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the balance shaft drive chain, particularly in early production units. This issue, detailed in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 275.980-01-06, stems from inadequate lubrication to the intermediate shaft tensioner and material fatigue under sustained high load. In 2009, revised chain guides and an improved oil feed system were introduced to enhance reliability and reduce noise generation.
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz M275.980 is a 5,980 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for flagship luxury applications (2006–2013). It combines smooth power delivery with advanced NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) engineering to deliver unparalleled refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5 standards, it balances high output with acceptable emissions for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 386–450 kW (525–612 PS) | |
| Torque | 830 Nm @ 2,800–3,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point electronic injection (MPE) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted, dual overhead camshafts) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 248 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 provides seamless throttle response ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5 specification oil to prevent balance shaft chain and intermediate tensioner wear. Use of incorrect oil viscosity or extended intervals can accelerate chain degradation. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure prompt oil pressure buildup. The MPE fuel system is sensitive to fuel quality and requires regular use of premium unleaded (98 RON) to maintain injector cleanliness. Post-2009 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2009 units should be inspected per Service Bulletin 275.980-01-06. Catalytic converters are prone to thermal aging in short-trip driving, necessitating periodic exhaust gas analysis.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 275.980-01-06). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2006–2009 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). Euro 5 compliance applies to 2010–2013 models in applicable markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 450 kW output requires AMG-specific calibration and premium fuel (98 RON) (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A40015).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A40010, A40015, SIB 275.980-01-06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M275.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221/R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the SL-Class and revised exhaust routing in the S-Class-and from 2009 the facelifted W221 models adopted updated balance shaft chain guides, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A40005). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M275 series). Pre-2009 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2009 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M275.981: M275.980 has naturally aspirated design and MPE injection, while M275.981 is twin-turbocharged with CGI. Service parts require production date verification - balance shaft chain kits for engines before 06/2009 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 275.980-01-06).
The M275.980's primary reliability risk is balance shaft chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2010 indicated a notable share of pre-2009 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor aging in infrequently driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase chain and tensioner stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2006–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M275980.
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