The Mercedes — Benz OM611LA is a 2,151 cc, inline — four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features common — rail direct injection (CDI) and a Bosch CRS 2.0 high — pressure fuel system, delivering 75 kW (102 PS) at 4,200 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm. This compact and efficient engine was engineered for entry — level luxury sedans and executive wagons, combining modern injection technology with refined drivability.
Fitted to the W210 E — Clas…
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Mercedes-Benz OM611LA is a 2,151 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engineered for compact executive vehicles (1998–2002). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth, quiet operation and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances refinement with long-term reliability under proper maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,151 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 88.3 mm | |
Power output | 75 kW (102 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
Torque | 230 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 18.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (KKK K16) | |
Timing system | Double-row chain-driven (DOHC) | |
Oil type | MB 229.3 (5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 178 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM611LA was used across Mercedes-Benz's W210/V220 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W210 and modified cooling routing in the Vito-and from 2000 the revised HPFP calibration improved fuel system durability, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The OM611LA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality or extended service intervals. Daimler field reports from 2001 indicated a notable share of pre-2000 engines required HPFP replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records show diesel-related failures in W210 models often stem from EGR/DPF neglect. Aggressive driving and skipping warm-up periods increase thermal stress, making adherence to warm-up/cool-down procedures and fuel filter replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Yes, the OM611LA is durable when properly maintained. Early models (1998–1999) are prone to HPFP failure if service procedures are not followed, but post-2000 revisions significantly improved fuel system durability. With regular oil changes using MB 229.3 spec oil and adherence to fuel filter replacement intervals, many examples exceed 250,000 km.
The most documented issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure (especially pre-2000), turbo actuator sticking, EGR/DPF clogging, and timing chain guide wear. These are all addressed in Daimler service documentation, with the HPFP issue being the most critical if not managed proactively.
The OM611LA was used exclusively in the W210 E-Class (E200 CDI, 1998–2002) and V220 Vito (200 CDI, 1999–2002). It replaced earlier OM604 variants and was not used in any other Mercedes platforms or licensed to other manufacturers.
Yes, the OM611LA is moderately tunable due to its common-rail injection system. ECU remapping can safely yield +20–30 PS. Significant upgrades require turbo and fuel system modifications, which are complex and not OEM-supported.
In real-world conditions, the OM611LA achieves approximately 6.8–7.5 L/100km (42–38 mpg UK) in the E200 CDI. Highway cruising can reach up to 45 mpg UK. Fuel economy is consistent due to precise common-rail injection and conservative tuning.
Yes. The OM611LA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons may contact valves, causing severe internal damage. Timing chain inspection is recommended at 200,000 km or if wear is detected.
Mercedes specifies 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.3 standard. This synthetic oil is essential for protecting turbocharger bearings and maintaining hydraulic stability in the common-rail system. Oil changes should occur every 15,000–20,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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