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…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M 276.956 delivers strong performance and good refinement, but early models (2013–2015) had reliability concerns, especially high-pressure fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2015) 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 hard starting or misfires), EGR valve clogging, and intake carbon buildup. Other complaints include ignition coil failures and occasional fuel injector deposits. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins.
This 3.0L bi-turbo V6 was used in several luxury models during the 2013–2017 period. It powered the E-Class (W213 E400), S-Class (W222 S400), CLS-Class (C218 CLS400), and GLE-Class (W166 GLE400). It replaced the M276.954 and was succeeded by the M256 inline-6 in most applications.
Yes. The M276.956 responds well to ECU remapping, typically gaining +40–70 kW safely. The stock turbos and internals handle moderate over-boosting, but cooling and fuel system upgrades are recommended for higher stages. Tuning should preserve factory lambda control and timing to avoid reliability issues.
Moderate for a bi-turbo V6. In an E400 (W213), typical consumption is ~10.0 L/100km (city) and ~7.2 L/100km (highway), or about 29 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 27–33 mpg (UK) on mixed roads. Premium fuel (98 RON) is recommended for optimal performance.
Yes. The M276 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Chain maintenance and timely fuel pump replacement are critical to prevent this.
Mercedes specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting MB 229.51 specification. Always use a high-quality low-SAPS oil designed for turbocharged petrol engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper turbo and VVT lubrication.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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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
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