The Mercedes-Benz OM611.962 is a 2,148 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features indirect injection via a pre-chamber system and a SOHC valvetrain with mechanical valve clearance adjustment. Delivering 55 kW (75 PS) at 4,200 rpm and 150 Nm of torque at 2,200 rpm, it was engineered for economical urban operation and light commercial use. The compact design enables transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive platforms.
Fitted to the W168 A-Class (A170 D) and Vito (W638) commercial variants, the OM611.962 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 cracking, particularly around the exhaust ports under sustained load or cooling system neglect. This issue is highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 05 98, which attributes cracking to thermal stress in high-temperature zones. Later production batches introduced a revised cylinder head casting with improved ribbing and enhanced coolant flow, reducing susceptibility to fatigue failure.
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Mercedes-Benz OM611.962 is a 2,148 cc inline-four diesel engine engineered for compact and commercial applications (1998–2002). 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 | 2,148 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch inline injection pump, indirect injection (pre-chamber) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| 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 | 170 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 cracking under thermal stress. The Bosch inline pump is highly durable but sensitive to water contamination; use only ULSD (EN 590) fuel. Post-2000 units benefit from revised head casting per SIB 07 05 98, reducing cracking risk. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain idle stability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, ACEA B2/B3 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 98). Compatible with MB 229.1.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all production years (1998–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1998).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18734, A18916, SIB 07 05 98
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz OM611.962 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 2000 the revised cylinder head casting reduced cracking 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 A18734). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('5' for OM611 series). Pre-2000 models have a ribbed oil pan; post-2000 units feature a smooth pan and revised cylinder head. Critical differentiation from OM611.961: OM611.962 has a longer stroke (90.0 mm vs 86.0 mm). Service parts require model year verification—cylinder heads for pre-2000 OM611.962 engines are not interchangeable with later revisions due to cracking mitigation updates (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 98).
The OM611.962's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, with elevated incidence in vehicles used under sustained load or with poor cooling maintenance. Internal Mercedes-Benz field reports from 2000 noted a significant number of pre-2000 units requiring head replacement before 200,000 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 (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM611962.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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