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 — Clas…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M275.980 delivers exceptional refinement and power, but early models (2006–2008) had reliability concerns, particularly balance shaft chain failures. Later revisions (post-2009) improved chain durability, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (5W-40 MB 229.5) greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are balance shaft chain wear (leading to rattling or limp mode), intake manifold flap actuator failures, and oil leaks from valve covers and rear seals. Other concerns include high-pressure fuel pump noise and PCV system degradation. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins.
This 6.0L V12 was used in flagship models. It appeared in the S-Class (S600), SL-Class (SL600), CL-Class (CL600), and Maybach 57/62 between 2006 and 2013. All applications are Euro 4 or Euro 5 compliant and feature longitudinal mounting. The S65 and SL65 AMG variants use the twin-turbo M275.981.
Yes, though tuning is less common than with turbo engines. ECU remaps can safely gain +30–50 kW on stage 1 by optimizing fuel and ignition maps. Aftermarket headers, exhaust, and intake upgrades can further enhance output. However, the naturally aspirated design limits gains compared to forced induction platforms. AMG models already operate near redline limits.
Moderate for a large V12. In an S600 (W221), typical consumption is ~18.5 L/100km (city) and ~9.8 L/100km (highway), or about 15 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, but expect 13–17 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy M275.980.
Yes. The M275 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can strike open valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Chain and tensioner maintenance is critical—any abnormal noise should be investigated immediately.
Mercedes-Benz specifies a 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting MB 229.5 specification. Always use a high-quality oil suitable for high-performance petrol engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper lubrication of the balance shaft chain and timing system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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