The Mercedes-Benz OM 601.911 is a 2,155 cc, inline-four diesel engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), indirect injection via pre-combustion chambers, and a mechanically controlled inline injection pump. In standard tune it delivered 60 kW (82 PS) and 165 Nm of torque, providing economical and durable performance for compact and entry-level executive applications.
Fitted to key models including the W124 E-Class, W202 C-Class, and T1 vans, the OM 601.911 was engineered for reliability and fuel efficiency in urban and commercial use. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalysts, allowing it to meet early Euro 2 standards with minimal complexity.
One documented concern is premature wear of the injection pump drive gear, noted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 01.02.94. This issue, linked to material fatigue under prolonged thermal cycling, can lead to timing misalignment and engine stalling. From 1995, revised hardened gears were implemented across the OM 601 series to improve durability.
All models meet Euro 2 standards; some export variants comply with EPA Tier 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3114).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 601.911 is a 2,155 cc inline-four diesel engine developed for compact and light-commercial platforms (1993–1998). It uses indirect injection with mechanical fuel control to deliver reliable, low-cost operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes longevity and serviceability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,155 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Mechanical inline injection pump (Bosch M | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2; EPA Tier 1 (export models) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain with spring tensioner | |
| Oil type | MB 229.1 (SAE 15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable performance ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1 specification oil to ensure longevity of the injection pump and valve train. Cold-start idling should be limited to 30 seconds to ensure prompt oil circulation. Indirect injection reduces combustion noise and carbon buildup, though EGR systems require periodic cleaning to prevent flow restriction. Post-1995 models feature hardened injection pump gears; pre-1995 units should be inspected per Mercedes-Benz SIB 01 02 94. Oxidation catalysts require regular high-load operation to prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 (15W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01 02 94). Compatible with ACEA B1 but not low-SAPS formulations.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all European-market models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3114). Export models may meet EPA Tier 1 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 diesel specifications.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A12680, A12801, SIB 01 02 94
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3114)
DIN 70020:2004 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz OM 601.911 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W124, W202, and T1 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the T1 and shortened accessory drives in the W202-and from 1995 the facelifted W124 models adopted revised injection pump gears, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A12680). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('A' for OM 601 series). Pre-1995 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-1995 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from OM 602: OM 601.911 has a single overhead camshaft and lacks balance shafts. Service parts require production date verification—injection pump gears before 04/1995 are incompatible with later units due to material upgrade (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01 02 94).
The OM 601.911's primary reliability risk is injection pump drive gear wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage commercial use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1996 indicated a significant share of pre-1995 engines required pump replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system-related faults contribute to emissions test failures in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase thermal stress on drive components, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1994-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM601911.
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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
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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