The Mercedes-Benz M 276.955 is a 2,996 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust, and direct fuel injection with spray-guided combustion. In standard tune it delivered 235 kW (320 PS) and 430 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsive performance and fuel efficiency for executive and performance applications.
Fitted to key models including the W212 E-Class, W218 CLS-Class, and W222 S-Class, the M 276.955 was engineered for dynamic driving and refined power delivery. It met Euro 6 emissions standards using a three-way catalytic converter, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and advanced engine management, with cylinder deactivation introduced in later variants to enhance efficiency.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive shaft, noted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 12.2015. This issue, linked to torsional vibrations in the timing chain system, can lead to fuel delivery faults and engine stalling. From 2016, revised pump drive components and upgraded chain dampers were implemented to mitigate the risk.
All models meet Euro 6b standards; 2016–2017 units with cylinder deactivation comply with Euro 6c (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7423).
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.955 is a 2,996 cc V6 petrol engine developed for executive and performance platforms (2013–2017). It combines direct injection with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6b (and select Euro 6c) standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
| Power output | 235 kW (320 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 3,500–5,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (spray-guided, up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b; Euro 6c with cylinder deactivation (2016–2017) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 184 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to ensure longevity of the high-pressure fuel pump and hydraulic lifters. Cold-start idling should be limited to 30 seconds to ensure prompt oil circulation. Direct injection increases carbon buildup on intake valves; intake cleaning is recommended every 60,000 km. Post-2016 models feature revised HPFP drive and chain damper; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Mercedes-Benz SIB 12 2015. EGR systems require cleaning every 80,000 km to prevent flow restriction and fault codes.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (0W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12 2015). Compatible with ACEA C2 but not C3.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all models. Euro 6c compliance confirmed for 2016–2017 units with cylinder deactivation (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7423).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R15-03 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228 RON 95 minimum.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33582, A33703, SIB 12 2015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7423)
ECE Regulation 15-03: Emissions Measurement Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.955 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212, W218, and W222 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W222 and shortened accessory drives in the W212-and from 2016 the facelifted W218 models adopted revised high-pressure fuel pump drives, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A33582). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for M 276 series). Pre-2016 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2016 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M 276.821: M 276.955 has higher output and revised intake plenum. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 06/2016 are incompatible with later units due to drive shaft redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12 2015).
The M 276.955's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2017 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines required HPFP replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system-related faults contribute to emissions test failures in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase torsional stress on the drive mechanism, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2014-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M276955.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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