The Mercedes-Benz M276.950 is a 3,498 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct fuel injection. In standard tuning, it delivered 200 kW (272 PS) with peak torque of 370 Nm, offering balanced performance and refinement for executive and luxury applications.
Fitted to key models such as the W212 E-Class, W221 S-Class, and X166 GL-Class, the M276.950 was engineered for smooth power delivery, quiet operation, and long-distance comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 5 compliance across all production years in European markets.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear observed in early production units, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 276.950-04/13. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication under sustained high-load conditions and low fuel levels. From 2014, revised HPFP internals and updated fuel system calibration were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7789).
The Mercedes-Benz M276.950 is a 3,498 cc V6 naturally aspirated engine engineered for executive and luxury vehicles (2012–2017). It combines direct injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday drivability with highway cruising capability.
| 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 injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 provides linear throttle response ideal for relaxed cruising but requires consistent fuel system maintenance to prevent high-pressure pump wear. MB 229.51 (0W-40) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation and thermal stability, protecting the direct injection system. Extended idling or short-trip driving increases carbon buildup and oil degradation, so 15,000 km service intervals are recommended. The engine's sensitivity to fuel quality necessitates premium unleaded (RON 95 minimum) to maintain combustion efficiency and prevent knock. Post-2014 models feature revised HPFP internals; pre-2014 units should be inspected per Mercedes-Benz SIB 276.950-04/13. EGR and intake manifolds require periodic cleaning to sustain airflow and idle stability.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (0W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 276.950-04/13). Supersedes ACEA C2/C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2012–2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across markets with premium fuel (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A32790).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32450, A32670, SIB 276.950-04/13
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7789)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test code for net power of internal combustion engines
The Mercedes-Benz M276.950 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212/W221/X166 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning in the GL-Class and revised cooling routing in the E-Class-and from 2014 the updated high-pressure fuel pump introduced in facelifted S-Class models improved system longevity, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the harmonic balancer (Mercedes-Benz TIS A32450). The 7th and 8th VIN digits indicate engine type ('5A' for M276.950). Pre-2014 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2014 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M276.951: M276.950 has a 3.5L displacement and lacks turbocharging. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 05/2014 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 276.950-04/13).
The M276.950's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained highway and low-fuel driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system-related faults contributing to emissions test failures. Extended idling and low fuel levels reduce lubrication stability, making adherence to oil specification and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M276950.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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