The Mercedes-Benz M 276.958 is a 2,996 cc, 60° V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust, and direct fuel injection (CGI). Delivering 328 kW (446 PS) in standard form and up to 368 kW (500 PS) in AMG variants, it powered high-performance sedans and coupes with rapid throttle response and strong mid-range torque.
Fitted to models such as the W222 S-Class, W205 C-Class, and W213 E-Class, the M 276.958 was engineered for dynamic driving with enhanced power delivery and improved efficiency over its predecessor. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed-loop three-way catalyst system and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 6 standards across all units, with all models certified under EU6b thresholds by 2015.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft adjuster gears, particularly in early production engines. Highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 02 0504 13, this issue stems from fatigue in the gear teeth due to prolonged high-RPM operation. A reinforced gear set was introduced in 2015, improving durability under sustained load.
All production years meet Euro 6 standards (EU6b threshold from 2015) (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.958 is a 2,996 cc 60° V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance applications (2013–2017). It combines DOHC architecture with dual variable valve timing and CGI direct injection to deliver rapid throttle response and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it replaced the M 276.824 with updated calibration and revised valvetrain components for improved reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (hot-V layout) | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
| Power output | 328–368 kW (446–500 PS) | |
| Torque | 600–700 Nm @ 1,800–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | CGI direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 (EU6b from 2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit with electric water pump | |
| Turbocharger | Twin IHI turbochargers (hot-V configuration) | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), hydraulic tensioners | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 186 kg |
The M 276.958 delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to prevent camshaft adjuster and timing chain wear. MB 229.51 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-shear stability and additive package protecting the turbochargers, high-pressure fuel pump, and hydraulic tensioners. Extended idling or short trips can accelerate carbon buildup in the intake tract due to reduced airflow. Premium fuel (98 RON recommended) is advised to maintain optimal combustion under load. Post-2015 models feature reinforced cam adjuster gears; pre-2015 units should be inspected per SIB 02 0504 13. Lambda sensor health is essential for maintaining emissions compliance and fuel trim accuracy.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 02 0504 13). Supersedes ACEA C3 and MB 229.5.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2013–2017), with EU6b compliance achieved by 2015 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 368 kW output (AMG variants) requires premium fuel (98 RON) and correct ECU calibration (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35634).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35402, A35634, A35715, SIB 02 0504 13
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.958 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W213/W222 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-cooling system tuning in the S-Class and revised intake in the C-Class-and from 2015 the W213 E-Class facelift introduced updated ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front right-side cylinder bank near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35402). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('F' for M276 series). All M 276.958 units have black cam covers with 'TWIN TURBO' branding. Critical differentiation from M276.824: M276.958 features revised cam adjuster gears and updated ECU mapping for Euro 6 compliance. Service parts require production date verification - cam adjuster gears for engines before 07/2015 are incompatible with later reinforced units (Mercedes-Benz SIB 02 0504 13).
The M 276.958's primary reliability risk is camshaft adjuster gear wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for sustained highway cruising. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2016 indicated a notable share of pre-2015 engines requiring adjuster replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst failures linked to fuel trim errors from cam timing drift. Extended idling and delayed oil changes increase wear on the timing chain and hydraulic tensioner, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M276958.
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