The Mercedes-Benz OM604.917 is a 2,155 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1994 and 1998. It belongs to the second generation of the OM604 series, featuring indirect injection, a cast-iron block, SOHC valvetrain, and a Bosch M mechanical inline injection pump. In standard tune, it produced 60 kW (82 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, offering durable performance for entry-level executive and commercial applications.
Fitted to the W124 E-Class (220D) and W202 C-Class (C220 Diesel), the OM604.917 was engineered for fuel efficiency, mechanical simplicity, and long service intervals. Its compact inline-four layout provided adequate space efficiency and acceptable refinement for mid-size sedans. Emissions compliance met Euro 1 standards across its production run, achieved through optimized combustion and basic EGR, without requiring a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
One documented concern involves premature wear of the camshaft lobes, particularly in units subjected to extended oil change intervals or low-quality lubricants. This issue, referenced in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 720.00-P-007531, can lead to reduced valve lift and loss of power. Later production batches from 1996 onward incorporated revised camshaft surface hardening and updated oil pump calibration to improve lubrication flow.
All production years 1994–1998 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Mercedes-Benz OM604.917 is a 2,155 cc inline-four naturally aspirated diesel engine designed for compact and mid-size models (1994–1998). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically controlled Bosch M-fuel pump to deliver dependable operation and ease of maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it emphasizes durability and fuel economy over high specific 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 × 90.6 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch M mechanical inline injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| 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 | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-four design provides modest performance suitable for urban and light highway 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-1996 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 and requires no scheduled maintenance. Engine longevity often exceeds 300,000 km with consistent maintenance, though camshaft wear in high-mileage engines may necessitate cylinder head refurbishment in cases of poor lubrication history.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 specification (Daimler SIB 720.00-P-007531). Compatible with MB 229.1.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (1994–1998) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output unchanged across model years.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31273, SIB 720.00-P-007531
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz OM604.917 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W124 and W202 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W124 and revised exhaust manifold routing in the W202-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 A31299). The 6th and 7th characters of the VIN indicate engine type ('60' for OM604 series). All OM604.917 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 OM604 variants: OM604.917 lacks a turbocharger and intercooler, and features a simpler exhaust manifold. Service parts are generally interchangeable across model years, though pre-1996 fuel pumps require verification of calibration code.
The OM604.917's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear in engines with extended oil change intervals, with elevated incidence in fleet and high-mileage applications. Daimler internal reports from 1997 indicated a significant number of pre-1996 camshafts showed measurable wear before 250,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows mechanically injected diesel engines dominate long-term fleet reliability rankings when properly maintained. Infrequent filter changes and cold starts increase wear, making oil quality and change intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (1994-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM604917.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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