The Mercedes-Benz M 279.982 is a 5,980 cc, 60° V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust, and multi-point fuel injection. Delivering 463 kW (630 PS) in standard form and up to 537 kW (730 PS) in AMG variants, it powered the brand’s flagship luxury sedans and coupes with effortless performance and supreme refinement.
Fitted exclusively to the W222 S-Class and R231 SL-Class platforms, the M 279.982 was engineered for ultra-luxury applications with near-silent operation, smooth power delivery, and high-end cruising comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual three-way catalysts 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 0505 14, this issue stems from fatigue in the gear teeth due to prolonged high-RPM operation. A reinforced gear set was introduced in 2016, improving durability under sustained load.
All production years meet Euro 6 standards (EU6b threshold from 2015) (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Mercedes-Benz M 279.982 is a 5,980 cc 60° V12 naturally aspirated engine engineered for ultra-luxury applications (2012–2019). It combines DOHC architecture with dual variable valve timing to deliver smooth, vibration-free power and exceptional refinement. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it represents the final evolution of Mercedes’ naturally aspirated V12 lineup before the shift to electrified powertrains.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 463–537 kW (630–730 PS) | |
| Torque | 830–1,000 Nm @ 2,800–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 (EU6b from 2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit with electric water pump | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual roller chain (primary and secondary), hydraulic tensioners | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 241 kg |
The M 279.982 delivers exceptionally smooth power ideal for flagship luxury vehicles 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 hydraulic tensioners, VVT actuators, and chain guides. 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 sustained load. Post-2016 models feature reinforced cam adjuster gears; pre-2016 units should be inspected per SIB 02 0505 14. 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 0505 14). Supersedes ACEA C3 and MB 229.5.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2012–2019), with EU6b compliance achieved by 2015 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 537 kW output (AMG variants) requires premium fuel (98 RON) and correct ECU calibration (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35645).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35513, A35645, SIB 02 0505 14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing
The Mercedes-Benz M 279.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W222/R231 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-cooling system tuning in the SL-Class and acoustic dampening in the S-Class-and from 2015 the W222 S-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 A35513). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('V' for M279 series). All M 279.982 units have black cam covers with 'V12' branding. Critical differentiation from M275: M279.982 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 08/2016 are incompatible with later reinforced units (Mercedes-Benz SIB 02 0505 14).
The M 279.982'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 2017 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring adjuster replacement before 160,000 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 (2012-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M279982.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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