The Mercedes — Benz M276.853 is a 2,996 cc, V6 twin — turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (CAMTRONIC), and direct fuel injection (CGI). In standard output form, it delivers 270 kW (367 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, providing strong performance and responsive throttle delivery across a broad rev range.
Fitted to models including the W205 C — Class, W213 E — Class, and X166 GLS, the M276.853 wa…
Production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 6 standards for applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Mercedes-Benz M276.853 is a 2,996 cc V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine designed for performance-oriented platforms (2012–2017). It combines CGI direct injection with twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver strong mid-range torque and rapid throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances high output with improved fuel efficiency over naturally aspirated predecessors.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
Power output | 270–320 kW (367–435 PS) | |
Torque | 500–600 Nm @ 1,800–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | CGI direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin variable-vane turbochargers (hot-V configuration) | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (rear-mounted) | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 187 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M276.853 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W213/X166 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the GLS and revised cooling routing in the E-Class-and from 2014 the facelifted W205 models adopted updated fuel pump designs, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M276.853's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2014 engines requiring fuel pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in infrequently driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase HPFP and turbo stress, 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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M276.853 delivers strong performance and refinement, but early models (2012–2013) had reliability concerns, particularly 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 ticking noise or limp mode), intake carbon buildup, and turbo wastegate actuator sticking. Other concerns include oil leaks from valve covers and rear main seals. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins.
This 3.0L twin-turbo petrol was used in several performance models. It appeared in the C-Class (C400/C43 AMG), E-Class (E400/E43 AMG), GLS-Class (GLS400/GLS450), and CLS-Class (CLS400/CLS450) between 2012 and 2017. All applications are Euro 6 compliant and feature longitudinal mounting.
Yes. ECU remaps can safely gain +40–60 kW on stage 1 by optimizing boost, fuel, and ignition maps. Aftermarket exhaust, intake, and intercooler upgrades can further enhance output. However, the stock turbo and fuel system limit extreme gains. Tuning is popular on C43 and E43 AMG models for improved responsiveness.
Moderate for a twin-turbo V6. In a C43 AMG (W205), typical consumption is ~11.5 L/100km (city) and ~7.2 L/100km (highway), or about 24 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, but expect 22–26 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy M276.853.
Yes. The M276 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can strike open valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Chain and tensioner maintenance is critical—any abnormal noise should be investigated immediately.
Mercedes-Benz specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting MB 229.51 specification. Always use a high-quality oil suitable for turbocharged petrol engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper lubrication of the fuel pump and turbocharger.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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