The Mercedes-Benz OM604.915 is a 2,155 cc, inline-four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1991 and 1998. It belongs to the compact OM604 engine family designed for use in mid-size passenger and commercial vehicles. Featuring indirect injection via a pre-chamber system and a cast-iron block with aluminium head, it delivered 70 kW (95 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, making it suitable for light-duty applications and urban driving with a focus on durability and fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the W202 C-Class and Vito vans, the OM604.915 was engineered for reliability and ease of maintenance in both private and fleet environments. Its driving character emphasized low-end pulling power and consistent fuel economy under mixed loads, supported by a mechanically regulated inline injection pump. Emissions compliance was achieved through EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and mechanical fuel metering, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run.
One documented service concern involves the durability of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in high-mileage applications. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 0730.006, is attributed to wear in the hydraulic tensioner mechanism, which can lead to chain slack and potential valve train noise. Later revisions introduced updated tensioner components, and retrofit kits were issued to improve long-term reliability in service fleets.
All production years 1991–1998 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (EU Directive 91/441/EEC), verified under VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679.
The Mercedes-Benz OM604.915 is a 2,155 cc inline-four, turbocharged diesel engineered for compact and light commercial applications (1991–1998). It combines indirect injection with a durable cast-iron block to deliver consistent low-RPM torque and mechanical reliability. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes longevity and serviceability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,155 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch M mechanical inline injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K16-120 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Double-row chain with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The turbocharged design provides improved throttle response and usable torque in urban and light-load scenarios but requires regular valve clearance checks to maintain efficiency. SAE 15W-40 oil meeting MB 229.1 specification is essential for protecting high-pressure mechanical injection components and maintaining chain lubrication. Extended idling should be minimized to prevent carbon buildup in the pre-chamber and EGR system. The Bosch M injection pump demands diesel meeting EN 590 standards to avoid premature wear. Post-1995 models feature revised tensioner hardware; pre-1993 units should be retrofitted per Mercedes-Benz SIB 0730.006. EGR systems require periodic inspection to prevent flow restriction and excessive soot accumulation.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 0730.006). Compatible with ACEA B3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all models (1991–1998) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No market-specific variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1991).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A604-8800, A604-8910, SIB 0730.006
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
EU Directive 91/441/EEC - Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Mercedes-Benz OM604.915 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W202 and W639 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W639 van and modified cooling layouts in the W202-and from 1995 the facelifted W202 models adopted revised EGR calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A604-8815). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('4' for OM604 series). Pre-1993 models have a silver timing cover with external oil cooler lines; post-1993 units use a black cover with integrated routing. Critical differentiation from OM604.910: OM604.915 has turbocharger and Bosch M pump with manual throttle linkage, while OM604.910 is naturally aspirated. Service parts require production date verification - tensioner kits for engines before 08/1992 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 0730.006).
The OM604.915's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in high-mileage applications, with elevated incidence in commercial vehicles operating under continuous load. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 1995 reported a significant number of pre-1993 units requiring tensioner replacement before 250,000 km, while VCA field reports link a portion of Euro 1 compliance failures to degraded EGR flow in urban-driven examples. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes increase tensioner and chain stress, making adherence to maintenance intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1991-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM604915.
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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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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