The Mercedes-Benz M279.981 is a 5,980 cc, twin-turbocharged V12 petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features a 60-degree V12 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust, and direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT). In standard tune, it delivers 463 kW (630 PS) and 1,000 Nm of torque, providing exceptional power and refinement for flagship luxury sedans and coupes.
Fitted exclusively to the W222 S-Class and C217 S-Class Coupe, the M279.981 was engineered for ultimate smoothness, effortless acceleration, and silent cruising at high speeds. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronically controlled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), dual catalytic converters per bank, and multiple oxygen sensor feedback systems, enabling Euro 6 compliance across all production years.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft, which can lead to fuel delivery failure. This issue, detailed in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 09/2013 (Ref. 279.981-0901), is attributed to torsional stress in early pump coupling designs. From 2015, revised drive shafts with reinforced splines were implemented across the M279 engine family.
All production years 2012–2019 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Mercedes-Benz M279.981 is a 5,980 cc twin-turbocharged V12 petrol engine designed for flagship luxury vehicles (2012–2019). It combines DOHC architecture with variable valve timing and twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver immense power and near-silent operation. Engineered to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances high performance with emissions control for global markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 98 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 463 kW (630 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 1,000 Nm @ 2,300–4,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (BlueDIRECT), twin high-pressure pumps | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (one per cylinder bank), intercooled | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 278 kg |
The twin-turbo V12 delivers immense torque from low rpm, ideal for silent highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to prevent high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft wear. Using lower-specification oils or extended intervals can accelerate degradation of the torsional coupling. Fuel quality is critical—minimum 98 RON unleaded petrol must be used to prevent knock sensor intervention and protect turbochargers. Intake manifold gaskets and valve cover seals are prone to age-related leaks; pre-2015 models should be inspected for early fuel pump drive shaft faults per SIB 09/2013. Emissions systems require functional oxygen sensors and dual catalytic converters to remain within Euro 6 limits.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 09/2013). Compatible with ACEA C2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2012–2019 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel qualities meeting 98 RON minimum (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A32014).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31576, A31895, SIB 09/2013
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M279.981 was used exclusively across Mercedes-Benz's W222 and C217 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-exhaust routing in the S-Class and revised engine mounts in the Coupe-and from 2015 the updated fuel pump drive shafts were introduced, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A31576). The 8th digit of the VIN identifies the engine family ('K' for M279 series). Pre-2015 models use silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2015 units retain the same appearance but feature revised fuel pump drive shafts. Critical differentiation from M279.970: M279.981 has a 6.0L displacement (bore 82.6 mm), while M279.970 is 5.5L (bore 86.0 mm). Service parts require VIN verification—fuel pump couplings for pre-2015 builds are not interchangeable with post-2015 revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 09/2013).
The M279.981's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft wear on pre-2015 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant portion of pre-2015 engines required drive shaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures linked to EGR and oxygen sensor faults in high-mileage units. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality fuel exacerbate drive shaft and turbocharger wear, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M279981.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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