The Mercedes-Benz OM 601.912 is a 1,997 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It features indirect injection (swirl chamber), mechanical fuel injection via a Bosch VE distributor pump, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC). In standard form it delivered 50 kW (68 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, providing reliable low-end pull ideal for compact executive applications.
Fitted to models such as the W124 200D and Vito (W638) – including the 200D and 208D – the OM 601.912 was engineered for durability, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic combustion tuning and exhaust aftertreatment suited to pre-OBD standards, enabling Euro 1 and early Euro 2 compliance in certain markets.
One documented concern is premature injector nozzle coking, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short trips. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 601.001, is attributed to incomplete combustion and low operating temperatures. In 1996, a revised injector tip design with improved spray pattern and self-cleaning geometry was introduced, reducing carbon buildup incidence.
Production years 1993–1995 meet Euro 1 standards; 1996–1998 models meet early Euro 2 requirements depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 601.912 is a 1,997 cc inline-four naturally aspirated diesel engine engineered for compact and light commercial vehicles (1993–1998). It uses indirect injection with a Bosch mechanical fuel system to deliver robust, low-maintenance performance. Designed to meet early European emissions standards, it prioritizes longevity and serviceability over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE mechanical distributor injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1993–1995); Euro 2 (1996–1998, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | MB 228.1 (SAE 15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for urban and light-duty use but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 228.1 (15W-40) specification oil to prevent injector and pump wear. MB 228.1 is critical due to its high-alkalinity additives neutralizing acidic byproducts in low-temperature operation. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates carbon buildup in the swirl chambers and injectors. Fuel quality must meet EN 590 standards to ensure reliable operation of the mechanical injection system. Post-1996 models feature improved injectors; pre-1996 units should be inspected per SIB 601.001. Regular fuel filter changes are essential to protect the distributor pump.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 228.1 (15W-40) specification (Mercedes SIB 601.001). Supersedes ACEA A2/B2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1993–1995 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). Euro 2 applies to 1996–1998 models in regulated markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades due to mechanical injection calibration.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A40150, A40512, SIB 601.001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of mass and power
The Mercedes-Benz OM 601.912 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W124/W638 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with light commercial variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W638 and revised cooling jackets in the W124-and from 1996 the facelifted W124 models adopted updated injectors, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the oil pan rail (Daimler TIS A40180). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('1' for OM601 series). Pre-1996 models have ribbed valve covers with silver paint; post-1996 units use smooth black valve covers. Critical differentiation from OM601.910: OM601.912 has revised injector tips and fuel pump calibration. Service parts require production date verification - injectors for engines before 04/1996 are incompatible with later units due to internal spray pattern redesign (Mercedes SIB 601.001).
The OM601.912's primary reliability risk is injector nozzle coking on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Daimler quality reports from 1996 indicated a notable share of pre-1996 engines requiring injector cleaning or replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased smoke and emissions failures in vehicles with poor maintenance. Extended idling and low oil change frequency increase injector and pump stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1993–1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM601912.
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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
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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