The Mercedes — Benz M277.980 is a 5,980 cc, 60° V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT). Delivering 320 kW (435 PS) and 600 Nm of torque, it was engineered for flagship luxury and grand tourer applications. Its architecture includes spray — guided direct injection and adaptive ignition mapping for stable combustion under divers…
All production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The Mercedes-Benz M277.980 is a 5,980 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury applications (2012–2017). It combines dual overhead camshafts with direct fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery and high-speed refinement. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances peak performance with regulatory compliance and long-term drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 320 kW (435 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
Torque | 600 Nm @ 2,500–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT, ME 17.8.3 ECU) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-40) | |
Dry weight | 235 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M277.980 was used exclusively in Mercedes-Benz's W222 and C217 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the W222 and enhanced sound insulation in the C217-and from 2014 the updated W222 facelift models adopted revised hydraulic lash adjusters, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M277.980's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 engines required follower replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show cam-related faults contribute to emissions failures in high-mileage units. Frequent cold starts and extended short trips increase wear risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M277.980 is fundamentally robust with strong build quality, but early models (2012–2013) are prone to cam follower wear. Later revisions (post-2014) incorporated improved hydraulic lash adjusters, significantly enhancing durability. When maintained with correct MB 229.51 oil and timely servicing, these engines reliably exceed 150,000 km. Neglecting oil changes or using non-compliant fluids increases risk of valvetrain damage.
Primary issues include camshaft follower wear (especially pre-2014), intake manifold flap linkage failure, valve cover oil leaks, and ignition coil degradation. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Secondary concerns include fuel injector coking and CCV system blockages. Regular inspection and OEM-specified maintenance mitigate most risks effectively.
The M277.980 6.0L V12 was used exclusively in flagship models: S600 (W222) and CLS600 (C217), produced between 2012 and 2017. It was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications meet Euro 5 emissions standards, with minor tuning differences across platforms to suit weight and aerodynamics.
Yes, though gains are limited due to its naturally aspirated design. ECU remapping can yield +20–30 kW by optimizing throttle response and ignition timing. Supporting modifications like high-flow exhausts and cold-air intakes enhance results. However, aggressive tuning without mechanical upgrades risks exceeding component tolerances. Stage 1 tuning is generally safe on well-maintained engines.
Fuel consumption is high for a 6.0L V12. In combined driving, expect 14.0–16.0 L/100km (18–20 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve ~11.5 L/100km (24 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 17 L/100km (17 mpg UK). Real-world economy depends heavily on driving style and vehicle weight. No official hybrid or economy modes were offered.
No. The M277.980 uses a non-interference valvetrain design. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, timing chain replacement is still recommended at 180,000 km or as condition dictates to maintain synchronization and prevent secondary issues.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-shear-stability formulation is critical for protecting hydraulic lash adjusters and preventing sludge buildup. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually. Using non-compliant oils increases risk of cam follower wear and premature engine wear.
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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