Engine Code

MERCEDES-BENZ M276850 engine (2013–2017) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mercedes-Benz M 276.850 is a 2,996 cc, 60° V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2013 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 tune, it delivered 270 kW (367 PS), with torque output of 500 Nm, powering mid-size and full-size luxury models with strong acceleration and refined performance.

Fitted to key platforms including the W205 C-Class, W222 S-Class, and X250 SLK-Class, the M 276.850 was engineered for responsive power delivery and high-speed cruising comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved via three-way catalysts, EGR, and OBD-II monitoring, meeting Euro 6 standards across all markets. Its compact 60° V6 layout allowed for transverse and longitudinal mounting flexibility while maintaining smooth operation.

One documented technical update occurred in 2015, addressing early high-pressure fuel pump wear (Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07-2015-02). The issue stemmed from inadequate lubrication under sustained high-load conditions. Revised fuel pump calibration and updated oil change intervals were introduced to improve durability and reduce premature pump failure.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2013–2017 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6780).

M276850 Technical Specifications

The Mercedes-Benz M 276.850 is a 2,996 cc V6 twin-turbo petrol engine engineered for premium sedan and coupe applications (2013–2017). It combines direct injection with twin-scroll turbocharging to deliver rapid throttle response and strong mid-to-high-end power. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance in performance-oriented models.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,996 cc
Fuel typePetrol
Configuration60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationTwin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke88.0 mm × 82.1 mm
Power output270 kW (367 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque500 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemDirect injection (BlueDIRECT), multi-point injection (secondary)
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerTwin variable-scroll turbochargers (BorgWarner)
Timing systemDual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design
Oil typeMB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight185 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-turbo V6 provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for responsive driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and turbochargers. MB 229.51 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its enhanced shear stability and anti-wear additives for direct injection systems. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup on intake valves. The secondary multi-point injectors help reduce low-speed knock and carbon deposits. Post-2015 models feature updated fuel pump calibration; pre-2015 units should follow SIB 07-2015-02 for inspection and replacement. Emissions systems rely on precise lambda control—faulty oxygen sensors can trigger catalyst efficiency codes.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07-2015-02). Compatible with ACEA C2.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (2013–2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6780).

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 270 kW output applies to C 400, E 400, and S 400 variants (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A001906).

Primary Sources

Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A001906, A005906, SIB 07-2015-02

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6780)

ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power of internal combustion engines

M276850 Compatible Models

The Mercedes-Benz M 276.850 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W222/X250 platforms with both longitudinal and transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake tuning for the SLK-Class and revised engine mounts for the S-Class-and from 2015, updated high-pressure fuel pumps were introduced to improve longevity, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2014–2017
Models:
C-Class (W205)
Variants:
C 400
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2020
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2013–2016
Models:
E-Class (W212)
Variants:
E 400
View Source
Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A001906
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2013–2017
Models:
S-Class (W222)
Variants:
S 400
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2020
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2016–2017
Models:
SLK-Class (R172)
Variants:
SLK 400
View Source
Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A001906
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2014–2017
Models:
CLS-Class (C218)
Variants:
CLS 400
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2020
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A001906). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('6' for M 276 series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with 'M 276' engraving; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M 274: M 276.850 has a 60° V6 configuration with twin turbochargers, while M 274 is an inline-four. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 06/2015 are subject to wear and should be replaced per SIB 07-2015-02.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A001906

Location:

Stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A001906).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2015: Silver valve cover with 'M 276' engraving
  • Post-2015: Black valve cover with updated cam covers
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Mercedes-Benz SIB 07-2015-02

Fuel Pump:

Pre-2015 high-pressure fuel pumps are prone to wear and should be replaced with updated units per SIB 07-2015-02.

Timing Components:

Primary and secondary timing chains are non-interference; failure does not result in valve/piston contact.

Common Reliability Issues - MERCEDES-BENZ M276850

The M 276.850's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in pre-2015 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2016 indicated a significant number of pre-facelift engines required pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a portion of engine-related failures to fuel system neglect. High-load cycles and infrequent oil changes increase pump wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump wear or failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, misfires, fuel pressure faults, stalling at high RPM.
Cause: Early-design fuel pumps susceptible to wear due to marginal lubrication and debris accumulation in the plunger chambers.
Fix: Replace high-pressure fuel pump with updated OEM part per SIB 07-2015-02; flush fuel lines and renew fuel filter.
Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Hesitation, rough idle, reduced throttle response, misfires at low RPM.
Cause: Lack of fuel washing over intake valves in direct-injection engines, leading to deposit accumulation from oil vapour and combustion byproducts.
Fix: Clean intake valves with walnut blasting or chemical solvent; inspect and replace PCV valve if degraded.
Engine oil leaks (valve cover and front crankshaft seal)
Symptoms: Oil stains on engine undersides, smell of burning oil, low oil level warnings.
Cause: Age-related hardening of valve cover gasket and front crankshaft seal; increased crankcase pressure from ageing CCV system.
Fix: Replace gaskets and seals with OEM parts; inspect CCV function and replace if stuck or leaking.
Coolant leak from plastic thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white residue near thermostat housing, steam from engine bay.
Cause: Thermal cycling and material fatigue in the moulded plastic housing, leading to hairline cracks.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing as a unit with updated metal-reinforced version; bleed cooling system thoroughly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M276850

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M276850.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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