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-Class (E200 CDI) and V220 Vito, the OM611LA was designed for drivers seeking a balance of fuel economy, smooth power delivery, and low noise levels. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in select markets, enabling Euro 3 standards across its production run. Its advanced common-rail system allowed for precise fuel metering and reduced combustion noise, enhancing cabin refinement.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, particularly in early production units. This issue, highlighted in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 07 06 99, is attributed to internal wear in the Bosch CRS 2.0 pump, exacerbated by fuel contamination or extended service intervals. In 2000, Mercedes introduced a revised pump calibration and updated fuel filter specification to improve durability in later models.
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 common-rail system provides refined, quiet operation ideal for urban and highway use but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and HPFP wear. MB 229.3 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and compatibility with the DOHC valvetrain. Cold starts should idle for 10–15 seconds to stabilise oil pressure. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system is sensitive to contamination; always use diesel meeting EN 590 standards. Post-2000 models feature revised HPFP calibration; pre-2000 units should use updated fuel filters per SIB 07 06 99. EGR and DPF systems require periodic inspection to prevent clogging and maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 (5W-40) specification (Daimler SIB 07 06 99). Supersedes ACEA B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (1998–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades due to common-rail precision.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32350, A32420, SIB 07 06 99
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test code for net power of internal combustion engines
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.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, near the oil filter housing (Daimler TIS A32430). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for OM611 series). Pre-2000 models have a silver valve cover with a single breather hose; post-2000 units feature a black valve cover with dual breather routing. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated OM611 variants: OM611LA has a turbocharger mounted on the left side with a visible intercooler pipe. Service parts require production date verification – HPFP units before 08/2000 are incompatible with later ECUs due to revised calibration (Daimler SIB 07 06 99).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM611LA.
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