The Mercedes-Benz OM 611A is a 2,151 cc, inline-four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It was designed for compact executive applications, featuring a Bosch common-rail direct injection (CDI) system and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). Delivering 60 kW (82 PS) and 200 Nm, it offered refined low-end torque and improved fuel efficiency over previous indirect-injection units.
Fitted primarily to the W168 A-Class and V219 Vito models, the OM 611A was engineered for urban efficiency and passenger comfort. It met Euro 3 emissions standards through common-rail injection precision and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling cleaner combustion without compromising reliability. This engine marked Mercedes-Benz's transition toward modern high-pressure diesel technology in entry-level platforms.
One documented concern involves the high-pressure fuel pump, which in certain early production units may experience internal wear leading to fuel delivery issues. This issue, referenced in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 14-05-99, is linked to lubrication characteristics of early ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD). A revised pump calibration and fuel system flush are recommended for affected units as per OEM guidance.
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 611A is a 2,151 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for compact and light commercial vehicles (1998–2002). It combines Bosch common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and improved emissions control. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it represents Mercedes-Benz's early adoption of high-pressure injection in small-displacement diesels.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,151 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 88.3 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail direct injection (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K16 VGT turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (service interval: 200,000 km) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The common-rail injection system provides smooth, quiet operation ideal for city driving and passenger comfort. The KKK VGT turbocharger delivers strong low-RPM torque with minimal lag, enhancing drivability in stop-start conditions. MB 229.3 (5W-40) oil is essential to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and maintain injector performance. Early production units may benefit from a fuel system inspection if operated on low-quality diesel; Bosch CRS 2.0 pumps are sensitive to contamination. Timing chain should be inspected at 200,000 km per Daimler TIS B30564. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent intake coking and DPF-related issues in later models.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 (5W-40) specification (Daimler SIB 14-05-99). Compatible with ACEA B5/B6.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (1998–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run with no market-specific variants.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B30564, B31249, SIB 14-05-99
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing Standard
The Mercedes-Benz OM 611A was used across Mercedes-Benz's W168 and W639 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the W168 and reinforced cooling in the Vito-and from 2000 the facelifted W168 models adopted revised EGR routing, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Daimler TIS B30793). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for OM 611 series). Pre-2000 W168 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2000 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated variants: OM 611A features a KKK VGT turbocharger and common-rail injectors with high-pressure lines. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 06/1999 are incompatible with later units due to calibration updates (Daimler SIB 14-05-99).
The OM 611A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in models produced before mid-1999. Daimler field reports from 2001 indicated a notable share of W168 A 170 CDI units requiring pump replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show moderate EGR-related failures due to carbon buildup in city-driven vehicles. Extended service intervals and use of non-specification diesel increase pump degradation risk, making preventive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (1998-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM611A.
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