The Mercedes — Benz M 276.822 is a 3,498 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, and direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT). In standard configuration, it delivered 200–240 kW (272–326 PS) and 370–380 Nm of torque, providing smooth power delivery ideal for mid — luxury applications.
Fitted to models such as the W204 C — Class, W212 E — C…
All production years (2012–2017) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.822 is a 3,498 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-luxury vehicles (2012–2017). It combines direct injection (BlueDIRECT) with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive throttle characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with improved fuel economy over previous V6 designs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 200–240 kW (272–326 PS) | |
Torque | 370–380 Nm @ 3,500–5,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (BlueDIRECT), multi-hole injectors | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (integrated VVT) | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 187 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.822 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/W212 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 W218 and revised intake manifolds in the W212-and from 2014 the facelifted W204 models adopted updated fuel pumps, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 276.822's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Daimler quality reports from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 engines requiring pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in vehicles with poor maintenance. Extended idling and low oil change frequency increase pump and EGR stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013–2017) 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 276.822 delivers smooth performance and good refinement, but early models (2012–2014) had reliability concerns, especially high-pressure fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2014) improved pump 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 high-pressure fuel pump wear (leading to hard starting or misfires), 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 3.5L V6 was used in several mid-luxury models during the 2012–2017 period. It powered the C-Class (W204 C350), E-Class (W212 E350), CLS-Class (W218 CLS350), and ML-Class (W166 ML350). It replaced the M272 and was succeeded by the M274 turbocharged inline-4 in most applications.
Yes, but with limitations. As a naturally aspirated engine, power gains from ECU remapping are modest (+20–40 kW). More significant increases require forced induction (supercharger/turbo) or displacement upgrades. Tuning should preserve factory valve timing and fuel delivery to avoid reliability issues.
Moderate for a V6. In an E350 (W212), typical consumption is ~10.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.8 L/100km (highway), or about 27 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 25–32 mpg (UK) on mixed roads. Premium fuel (98 RON) is recommended for optimal performance.
Yes. The M276 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 fuel pump 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 direct-injection petrol engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper VVT and fuel system lubrication.
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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