The Mercedes — Benz M276.825 is a 3,498 cc, 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT). Delivering 200 kW (272 PS) and 370 Nm of torque, it was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in mid — luxury applications. Its architecture includes spray — guided direct injection and adaptive ignition mapping for stable combus…
All production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Mercedes-Benz M276.825 is a 3,498 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-luxury sedan and coupe applications (2012–2017). It combines dual overhead camshafts with direct fuel injection to deliver responsive power delivery and high-speed refinement. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance and long-term drivability.
| 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 kW (272 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 370 Nm @ 3,500–5,250 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT, ME 17.8.3 ECU) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-40) | |
Dry weight | 178 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M276.825 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204, W212, and W221 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the W221 and enhanced sound insulation in the W212-and from 2015 the updated W212 facelift models adopted revised intake port coatings, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M276.825's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2015 engines required intake cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show airflow-related faults contribute to emissions failures in high-mileage units. Frequent cold starts and extended short trips increase deposit risk, making maintenance 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 M276.825 is fundamentally robust with strong build quality, but early models (2012–2014) are prone to intake valve carbon buildup. Later revisions (post-2015) incorporated improved intake port coatings, significantly enhancing durability. When maintained with correct MB 229.51 oil and timely servicing, these engines reliably exceed 150,000 km. Neglecting intake cleaning or using non-compliant fluids increases risk of performance degradation.
Primary issues include intake valve carbon buildup (especially pre-2015), valve cover oil leaks, ignition coil degradation, and coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housings. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Secondary concerns include fuel injector coking and CCV system blockages. Regular inspection and OEM-specified maintenance mitigate most risks effectively.
The M276.825 3.5L V6 was used in several mid-luxury models: C350 (W204), E350 (W212), S350 (W221), and CLS350 (C218), produced between 2012 and 2017. It was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications meet Euro 5 emissions standards, with minor tuning differences across platforms to suit weight and aerodynamics.
Yes, though gains are limited due to its naturally aspirated design. ECU remapping can yield +15–25 kW by optimizing throttle response and ignition timing. Supporting modifications like high-flow exhausts and cold-air intakes enhance results. However, aggressive tuning without mechanical upgrades risks exceeding component tolerances. Stage 1 tuning is generally safe on well-maintained engines.
Fuel consumption is moderate for a 3.5L V6. In combined driving, expect 9.5–11.5 L/100km (24–30 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve ~7.5 L/100km (38 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 13 L/100km (22 mpg UK). Real-world economy depends heavily on driving style and vehicle weight. No official hybrid or economy modes were offered.
No. The M276.825 uses a non-interference valvetrain design. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, timing chain replacement is still recommended at 180,000 km or as condition dictates to maintain synchronization and prevent secondary issues.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-shear-stability formulation is critical for protecting hydraulic lash adjusters and preventing sludge buildup. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually. Using non-compliant oils increases risk of valvetrain wear and premature engine wear.
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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