The Mercedes-Benz M282.921 is a 1,332 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (Camtronic), and direct fuel injection. In standard tuning, it delivered 80 kW (109 PS) with peak torque of 200 Nm, providing efficient performance for compact and entry-level applications.
Fitted to key models such as the W177 A-Class, W177 CLA-Class, and Z177 GLA-Class, the M282.921 was engineered for urban efficiency, responsive low-end torque, and packaging flexibility in transversely mounted platforms. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6c compliance across all production years in European markets.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator wear observed in early production units, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 282.921-06/18. This issue is linked to thermal stress and carbon buildup affecting actuator rod movement. From 2019, revised actuator components and updated ECU calibration were implemented to improve durability and boost control stability.
Production years 2017–2020 meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/10234).
The Mercedes-Benz M282.921 is a 1,332 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact vehicles (2017–2020). It combines direct injection with Camtronic variable valve timing to deliver responsive city driving performance and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6c standards, it balances urban drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,332 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Camtronic | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 80 kW (109 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed geometry turbocharger with electronic wastegate | |
| Timing system | Roller chain (single), non-interference design | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The turbocharged inline-4 provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires consistent ECU and turbo system maintenance to prevent wastegate actuator failure. MB 229.51 (0W-40) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation and thermal stability, protecting the turbocharger and direct injection system. Extended idling or short-trip driving increases carbon buildup and oil degradation, so 15,000 km service intervals are recommended. The engine's sensitivity to fuel quality necessitates premium unleaded (RON 95 minimum) to maintain combustion efficiency and prevent knock. Post-2019 models feature revised wastegate actuators; pre-2019 units should be inspected per Mercedes-Benz SIB 282.921-06/18. EGR and intake manifolds require periodic cleaning to sustain airflow and idle stability.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (0W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 282.921-06/18). Supersedes ACEA C2/C3.
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to all production years (2017–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/10234).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across markets with premium fuel (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A33200).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33010, A33150, SIB 282.921-06/18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/10234)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test code for net power of internal combustion engines
The Mercedes-Benz M282.921 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W177/Z177 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning in the GLA-Class and revised cooling routing in the A-Class-and from 2019 the updated turbocharger actuator introduced in facelifted CLA-Class models improved boost control longevity, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A33010). The 7th and 8th VIN digits indicate engine type ('2B' for M282.921). Pre-2019 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2019 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M282.920: M282.921 has a 1.3L displacement and higher output (109 PS vs 90 PS). Service parts require production date verification—turbocharger actuators before 04/2019 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 282.921-06/18).
The M282.921's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2019 indicated a notable share of pre-2019 engines requiring actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show boost-related faults contributing to emissions test failures. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon accumulation, making adherence to oil specification and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2018-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M282921.
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