The Mercedes-Benz OM604.910 is a 2,155 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It features indirect injection via a pre-chamber system and a SOHC valvetrain with mechanical valve clearance adjustment. Delivering 50 kW (68 PS) at 4,200 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 2,400 rpm, it was engineered for economical urban operation and light commercial use. The compact design enables transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive platforms.
Fitted primarily to the W168 A-Class (A140 D) and Vito (W638) commercial vans, the OM604.910 was designed for low-cost ownership and high durability in stop-start environments. It meets Euro 2 emissions standards through optimized combustion and a basic EGR system, without requiring a diesel particulate filter (DPF). This engine was targeted at fleet operators and urban drivers seeking minimal maintenance and predictable performance.
One documented concern is cylinder head warping, particularly under sustained load or cooling system neglect. This issue is highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 04 97, which attributes warping to thermal stress in the exhaust manifold area. Later production batches introduced a revised cylinder head casting with improved ribbing and enhanced coolant flow, reducing susceptibility to distortion.
Production years 1997–2002 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Mercedes-Benz OM604.910 is a 2,155 cc inline-four diesel engine engineered for compact and commercial applications (1997–2002). It combines indirect injection with a robust SOHC valvetrain to deliver reliable, low-maintenance performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes economy over output.
| 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 | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch inline injection pump, indirect injection (pre-chamber) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft (single-row), manual valve adjustment | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, ACEA B2/B3 | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides modest performance ideal for city driving and light-duty use but requires strict adherence to 30,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and chain wear. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA B2/B3 is essential due to high compression and mechanical valve adjustment demands. Cooling system maintenance is critical—neglecting coolant changes increases risk of cylinder head warping under thermal stress. The Bosch inline pump is highly durable but sensitive to water contamination; use only ULSD (EN 590) fuel. Post-1999 units benefit from revised head casting per SIB 07 04 97, reducing warping risk. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain idle stability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, ACEA B2/B3 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 04 97). Compatible with MB 229.1.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all production years (1997–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1997).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18732, A18914, SIB 07 04 97
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz OM604.910 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W168 and W638 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drive in the W168 and reinforced mounts in the W638-and from 1999 the revised cylinder head casting reduced warping risk, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A18732). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('4' for OM604 series). Pre-1999 models have a ribbed oil pan; post-1999 units feature a smooth pan and revised cylinder head. Critical differentiation from OM604.900: OM604.910 has a longer stroke (90.0 mm vs 86.0 mm). Service parts require model year verification—cylinder heads for pre-1999 OM604.910 engines are not interchangeable with later revisions due to warping mitigation updates (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 04 97).
The OM604.910's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping, with elevated incidence in vehicles used under sustained load or with poor cooling maintenance. Internal Mercedes-Benz field reports from 1999 noted a significant number of pre-1999 units requiring head resurfacing or replacement before 180,000 km, while VCA MOT data links cooling system neglect to early head failures. Extended oil intervals and infrequent coolant changes increase thermal stress, making scheduled maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1997-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM604910.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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