The Mercedes — Benz M 275.982 is a 5,980 cc, 90° V12 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2013. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, and naturally aspirated operation with multi — point fuel injection. In standard tuning, it delivered 386 kW (525 PS) and 830 Nm of torque, providing effortless high — speed performance and exceptional refinement.
Fitted exclusively to the W221 S — Class and R230 SL —…
All production years 2006–2013 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M 275.982 is a 5,980 cc 90° V12 engineered for flagship luxury applications (2006–2013). It combines naturally aspirated design with dual variable valve timing to deliver imperious power and near-silent refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances extreme performance with drivability in the brand's most prestigious models.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 386 kW (525 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
Torque | 830 Nm @ 2,800–3,700 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME 2.8 control unit) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Dual chain (short-block to cylinder heads) | |
Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 238 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 275.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221 and R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-adaptive throttle response in the S-Class and revised torque delivery in the SL-Class-and from 2009, minor internal revisions improved cam adjuster durability, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 275.982's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft adjuster wear, with elevated incidence in urban driving conditions. Internal Daimler reports from 2010 indicated a significant portion of pre-2009 engines required adjuster replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows cam timing faults among the top engine-related MOT advisories for W221 S 600 models. Frequent short trips and low-RPM operation reduce oil flow to the phaser, 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 M 275.982 is a highly engineered V12 with exceptional build quality, but pre-2009 models are prone to camshaft adjuster wear if oil changes are delayed. Later revisions improved durability, so well-maintained engines can exceed 200,000 km. Using MB 229.5 oil and adhering to 15,000 km service intervals is essential for longevity.
The primary issues are intake camshaft adjuster wear (causing rattles and timing faults), oil leaks from ageing valve cover gaskets, and ignition coil failures leading to misfires. Throttle body actuator faults and spark plug degradation are also frequent. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and technical forums.
This 6.0L V12 was used exclusively in flagship models: S-Class (W221) S 600 (2006–2013) and SL-Class (R230) SL 600 (2006–2012). All models meet Euro 4 emissions standards and feature 5-speed automatic transmission (5G-Tronic) in early builds, upgraded to 7G-Tronic from 2007.
Yes, though it's naturally aspirated. ECU remapping can yield +20–40 kW by optimizing throttle response and ignition timing. Performance gains are modest compared to turbo engines. Supporting mods like exhaust and intake upgrades improve results. Tuning should not compromise cam adjuster oil pressure requirements.
Moderate for a V12. In an S 600 (W221), combined consumption is ~14.5 L/100km (~19 mpg UK). City driving may reach 18–22 L/100km (~16–13 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~11.0 L/100km (~26 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 13–19 mpg (UK) in mixed conditions.
Yes. The M 275 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Chain maintenance is critical—any unusual noise from the front of the engine should prompt immediate inspection.
Mercedes specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This low-ash, high-detergent formulation protects the cam adjusters and maintains engine cleanliness. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and wear in critical hydraulic components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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