The Mercedes-Benz M 276.956 is a 2,996 cc, V6 bi-turbo petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features twin-scroll turbochargers, direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Delivering 270–328 kW (367–446 PS) and 520–600 Nm of torque, it provides strong low-end response and linear power delivery ideal for performance-oriented applications.
Fitted to models such as the W213 E-Class, W222 S-Class, and C218 CLS-Class – including the E400, S400, and CLS400 – the M 276.956 was engineered for dynamic driving with refined power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management, close-coupled catalytic converters, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 276.956-01/13, is attributed to inadequate lubrication and debris accumulation in the fuel rail. In 2015, a revised HPFP with improved internal coatings and filtration was introduced, significantly reducing failure incidence.
All production years (2013–2017) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891).
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.956 is a 2,996 cc V6 bi-turbo petrol engine engineered for performance and refinement in luxury vehicles (2013–2017). It combines twin-scroll turbocharging with direct injection (BlueDIRECT) and variable valve timing to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances high performance with improved fuel economy over naturally aspirated predecessors.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Bi-turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
| Power output | 270–328 kW (367–446 PS) | |
| Torque | 520–600 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (BlueDIRECT), multi-hole injectors | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Two twin-scroll turbochargers (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (integrated VVT) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 195 kg |
The bi-turbo V6 provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for dynamic driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification oil to prevent turbo and VVT wear. MB 229.51 is critical due to its low-SAPS formulation and thermal stability, protecting the turbochargers and exhaust system. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates carbon buildup in the intake and EGR system. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards to ensure reliable operation of the high-pressure injectors. Post-2015 models feature upgraded fuel pumps; pre-2015 units should be inspected per SIB 276.956-01/13. EGR and catalytic converters require periodic monitoring to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes SIB 276.956-01/13). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (2013–2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 328 kW output requires premium 98 RON fuel (Daimler TIS Doc. A33005).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33250, A33240, A33512, SIB 276.956-01/13
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7891)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of mass and power
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.956 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W213/W222 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with AMG variants in high-performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W222 and revised intake manifolds in the C218-and from 2015 the facelifted W213 models adopted updated fuel pumps, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-right cylinder bank near the alternator (Daimler TIS A33280). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for M276 series). Pre-2015 models have silver cam covers with black intake manifolds; post-2015 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M276.954: M276.956 has higher boost pressure and revised fuel pump. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes SIB 276.956-01/13).
The M 276.956's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Daimler quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2015 engines requiring pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in vehicles with poor maintenance. Extended idling and low oil change frequency increase pump and EGR stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M276956.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
