The Mercedes-Benz OM606.962 is a 3,499 cc, inline-six, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It belongs to the robust OM606 engine family designed for executive and commercial vehicle applications. Featuring indirect injection via a pre-chamber system and a cast-iron block with aluminium head, it delivered 130 kW (177 PS) and 420 Nm of torque, making it suitable for sustained highway cruising and load-carrying duties.
Fitted primarily to the W140 S-Class and W210 E-Class, the OM606.962 was engineered for smooth power delivery and long-term durability in both private and fleet environments. Its driving character emphasized strong low-end pulling power and refined operation, supported by a mechanically regulated inline injection pump. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and mechanical fuel metering, meeting Euro 2 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 0730.007, 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 1995–2002 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (EU Directive 94/12/EC), verified under VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680.
The Mercedes-Benz OM606.962 is a 3,499 cc inline-six, turbocharged diesel engineered for luxury and light commercial applications (1995–2002). It combines indirect injection with a durable cast-iron block to deliver consistent low-RPM torque and mechanical reliability. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes longevity and serviceability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
| Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch M mechanical inline injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K28-2 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Double-row chain with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 255 kg |
The turbocharged inline-six design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for highway and luxury driving 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-1998 models feature revised tensioner hardware; pre-1997 units should be retrofitted per Mercedes-Benz SIB 0730.007. EGR systems require periodic inspection to prevent flow restriction and excessive soot accumulation.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 0730.007). Compatible with ACEA B3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1995–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). No market-specific variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1995).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A606-8800, A606-8910, SIB 0730.007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
EU Directive 94/12/EC - Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Mercedes-Benz OM606.962 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140 and W210 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W140 limousine and modified cooling layouts in the W210-and from 1998 the facelifted W210 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 A606-8815). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('6' for OM606 series). Pre-1997 models have a silver timing cover with external oil cooler lines; post-1997 units use a black cover with integrated routing. Critical differentiation from OM606.960: OM606.962 has turbocharger and Bosch M pump with manual throttle linkage, while OM606.960 is naturally aspirated. Service parts require production date verification - tensioner kits for engines before 08/1996 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 0730.007).
The OM606.962'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 1998 reported a significant number of pre-1997 units requiring tensioner replacement before 250,000 km, while VCA field reports link a portion of Euro 2 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 (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 OM606962.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
