The Mercedes-Benz M 276.824 is a 2,996 cc, 60° V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust, and direct fuel injection (CGI). Delivering 270 kW (367 PS) in standard form and up to 325 kW (442 PS) in AMG variants, it powered key performance sedans and coupes with responsive, high-revving performance.
Fitted to models such as the W204 C-Class, W207 C-Class Coupe, and W212 E-Class, the M 276.824 was engineered for dynamic driving with strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed-loop three-way catalyst system and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across all units, with select 2015–2017 models achieving early Euro 6 thresholds in specific markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft adjuster gears, particularly in high-mileage engines. Highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 02 0503 12, this issue stems from fatigue in the gear teeth due to prolonged high-RPM operation. A reinforced gear set was introduced in 2014, improving durability under sustained load.
All production years meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2017 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.824 is a 2,996 cc 60° V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance applications (2012–2017). It combines DOHC architecture with dual variable valve timing and CGI direct injection to deliver rapid throttle response and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and select Euro 6) emissions standards, it replaced the naturally aspirated M272 and formed the basis for later AMG tuning.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (hot-V layout) | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
| Power output | 270–325 kW (367–442 PS) | |
| Torque | 510–600 Nm @ 1,800–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | CGI direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (all); Euro 6 (select markets, 2015–2017) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit with electric water pump | |
| Turbocharger | Twin IHI turbochargers (hot-V configuration) | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), hydraulic tensioners | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 184 kg |
The M 276.824 delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to prevent camshaft adjuster and timing chain wear. MB 229.51 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-shear stability and additive package protecting the turbochargers, high-pressure fuel pump, and hydraulic tensioners. Extended idling or short trips can accelerate carbon buildup in the intake tract due to reduced airflow. Premium fuel (98 RON recommended) is advised to maintain optimal combustion under load. Post-2014 models feature reinforced cam adjuster gears; pre-2014 units should be inspected per SIB 02 0503 12. Lambda sensor health is essential for maintaining emissions compliance and fuel trim accuracy.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 02 0503 12). Supersedes ACEA C3 and MB 229.5.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2012–2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). Select 2015–2017 units meet Euro 6 based on market-specific calibrations.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 325 kW output (AMG variants) requires premium fuel (98 RON) and correct ECU calibration (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35623).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35391, A35623, A35704, SIB 02 0503 12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.824 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/W207/W212 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-cooling system tuning in the E-Class and revised intake in the C-Class-and from 2014 the W205 C-Class facelift introduced updated ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front right-side cylinder bank near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35391). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('F' for M276 series). All M 276.824 units have black cam covers with 'TWIN TURBO' branding. Critical differentiation from M272: M276.824 is a twin-turbo V6 with hot-V turbo layout, while M272 is a naturally aspirated V6 with side-mounted turbos. Service parts require production date verification - cam adjuster gears for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later reinforced units (Mercedes-Benz SIB 02 0503 12).
The M 276.824's primary reliability risk is camshaft adjuster gear wear on high-mileage units, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for sustained highway cruising. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 engines requiring adjuster replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst failures linked to fuel trim errors from cam timing drift. Extended idling and delayed oil changes increase wear on the timing chain and hydraulic tensioner, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M276824.
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