The Mercedes-Benz OM602.930 is a 2,996 cc, inline-five, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It replaced the older OM602.9xx series and was used primarily in commercial and off-road applications, featuring indirect injection, a robust cast-iron block, and SOHC valvetrain with mechanical fuel injection (Bosch M-System). In standard tune, it produced 80 kW (109 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, prioritizing durability over peak output.
Fitted to models such as the W124 300D, W140 S300, and G-Class 300D (W463), the OM602.930 was engineered for long service life, low maintenance, and reliable operation in demanding environments. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic EGR and optimized combustion, allowing the engine to meet Euro 2 standards across its production run without requiring a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
One documented concern involves premature fuel injection pump wear, particularly in units exposed to poor fuel quality. This issue, highlighted in Daimler Service Bulletin 720.00-P-010198, is attributed to contamination and inadequate filtration. Later production batches from 1998 onward incorporated revised pump calibration and hardened plungers to improve longevity.
All production years 1995–2002 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz OM602.930 is a 2,996 cc inline-five diesel engine engineered for commercial and off-road use (1995–2002). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically controlled Bosch M-fuel pump to deliver consistent low-end torque and operational resilience. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and long-term reliability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, SOHC, 10-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 80 kW (109 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch M mechanical inline injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 | |
| Dry weight | 228 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for load-carrying and off-road use but requires early gear changes to maintain momentum. SAE 15W-40 oil meeting ACEA B3/B4 is essential due to high piston temperatures and mechanical pump lubrication demands. Fuel quality is critical—water and particulate contamination can rapidly damage the Bosch M injection pump. Pre-1998 units should have fuel filters replaced every 15,000 km; later revisions tolerate 20,000 km intervals. The gear-driven timing system is highly durable but requires periodic inspection of balance shaft gears in high-mileage applications. Engine longevity often exceeds 500,000 km with consistent maintenance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 specification (Daimler SIB 720.00-P-010198). Compatible with MB 229.1.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all production years (1995–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output unchanged across model years.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31275, SIB 720.00-P-010198
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz OM602.930 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W124, W140, and W463 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer oil pan in the W463 and revised engine mounts in the W140-and remained mechanically unchanged throughout its production, ensuring broad interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Daimler TIS A31301). The 6th and 7th characters of the VIN indicate engine type ('60' for OM602 series). All OM602.930 units have a black plastic valve cover with raised Mercedes-Benz lettering and a mechanical Bosch M injection pump at the rear. Critical differentiation from turbocharged OM602 variants: OM602.930 lacks a turbocharger and intercooler, and features a simpler exhaust manifold. Service parts are generally interchangeable across model years, though pre-1998 fuel pumps require verification of calibration code.
The OM602.930's primary reliability risk is fuel injection pump wear in regions with poor diesel quality, with elevated incidence in high-mileage commercial use. Daimler internal reports from 1999 indicated a significant number of pre-1998 pumps required rebuilds before 300,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows mechanical diesel engines dominate long-term fleet reliability rankings when properly maintained. Infrequent filter changes and cold starts increase pump wear, making fuel maintenance and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (1995-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM602930.
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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