The Mercedes-Benz OM606.964 is a 3,198 cc, inline-six, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It belongs to the second generation of the OM606 series, featuring indirect injection, a cast-iron block, SOHC valvetrain, and a mechanically controlled Bosch MAF inline injection pump. In standard tune, it produced 110 kW (150 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, offering robust performance for executive and commercial applications.
Fitted to the W140 S-Class (S320 CDI) and W210 E-Class (E320 CDI), the OM606.964 was engineered for smooth power delivery, high durability, and improved fuel efficiency over its naturally aspirated predecessors. Emissions compliance met Euro 3 standards through enhanced EGR and optimized combustion, allowing it to meet evolving European regulations without requiring a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
One documented concern involves premature wear of the injection pump's governor mechanism, particularly in units subjected to prolonged idle periods or infrequent servicing. This issue, referenced in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 720.00-P-011052, can lead to unstable idle and poor throttle response. Later production batches from 2000 onward incorporated revised spring tension and improved wear resistance in the control rack assembly.
All production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz OM606.964 is a 3,198 cc inline-six turbocharged diesel engine designed for executive sedans and commercial use (1998–2002). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically controlled Bosch MAF-fuel pump to deliver strong low-end torque and operational resilience. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with improved efficiency and emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 97.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MAF mechanical inline injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed geometry turbocharger (KKK K26) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 | |
| Dry weight | 245 kg |
The turbocharged inline-six design provides strong, linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising and load-carrying applications but requires moderate engine speeds to spool the turbo effectively. 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 MAF injection pump. Pre-2000 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 400,000 km with consistent maintenance, though governor wear in the injection pump may necessitate rebuilds in high-idle applications such as ambulances or service vehicles.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 specification (Daimler SIB 720.00-P-011052). Compatible with MB 229.1.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (1998–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output unchanged across model years.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31276, SIB 720.00-P-011052
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz OM606.964 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 and revised cooling hose routing in the W210-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 A31302). The 6th and 7th characters of the VIN indicate engine type ('60' for OM606 series). All OM606.964 units have a black plastic valve cover with raised Mercedes-Benz lettering and a mechanical Bosch MAF injection pump at the rear. Critical differentiation from non-turbo OM606 variants: OM606.964 includes a turbocharger (KKK K26), intercooler, and reinforced oil pan. Service parts are generally interchangeable across model years, though pre-2000 fuel pumps require verification of calibration code.
The OM606.964's primary reliability risk is fuel injection pump governor wear in vehicles with prolonged idle cycles, with elevated incidence in fleet and service applications. Daimler internal reports from 2001 indicated a significant number of pre-2000 pumps required recalibration 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 pump wear, making fuel maintenance and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM606964.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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