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 Cou…
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 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.
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.
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The M 276.824 is generally robust with strong build quality, but high-mileage units (especially pre-2014) are prone to camshaft adjuster gear wear. Later revisions (post-2014) feature reinforced components that significantly improve durability. Consistent maintenance, timely oil changes with MB 229.51 spec oil, and use of premium fuel are essential for long-term reliability in this performance-oriented V6.
The most documented issues are camshaft adjuster gear wear (especially pre-2014), carbon buildup in the intake tract due to CGI, high-pressure fuel pump failures, and coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and technical reports for the W204, W212, and C218 platforms.
The M 276.824 was used in performance models including the W204 C-Class (C 400, C 63 AMG), W207 C-Class Coupe (C 400, C 63 AMG), W212 E-Class (E 400, E 63 AMG), and C218 CLS-Class (CLS 400, CLS 63 AMG). It was phased out in 2017 with the introduction of the M256 inline-six.
Yes. ECU remapping can yield +40–60 kW on twin-turbo engines, with gains enhanced by supporting modifications like intercooler upgrades and exhaust systems. AMG versions already operate near stock limits, but non-AMG variants have significant headroom. However, aggressive tuning increases stress on the valvetrain and fuel system, so conservative tuning is advised, especially on pre-2014 units.
Fuel consumption is typical for a twin-turbo V6. In an E 400 (W212), expect ~11.5 L/100km (city) and ~7.2 L/100km (highway), or approximately 24 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary with driving style, but 20–26 mpg UK is common. The CGI system improves efficiency over port-injected predecessors, though performance driving reduces economy significantly.
Yes. The M 276.824 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. This makes timely inspection and replacement of timing components—especially the cam adjuster gears—critically important given the engine's complexity and repair cost.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-shear-stability oil is essential for protecting the turbochargers, high-pressure fuel pump, and hydraulic tensioners. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to maintain engine health and prevent premature wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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