The Mercedes — Benz OM612.962 is a 2,697 cc, inline — five, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2006. It was part of the second — generation common — rail diesel family, introducing high — pressure direct injection and piezoelectric injectors for improved efficiency and refinement. Featuring a compacted graphite iron (CGI) block and DOHC valvetrain, it delivered 120 kW (163 PS) and 370 Nm of torque, balancing performance with durability for executive ap…
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 standards; 2003–2006 models meet Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz OM612.962 is a 2,697 cc inline-five turbocharged diesel engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1998–2006). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to deliver refined performance and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards, it balances modern emissions control with mechanical robustness.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,697 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
Torque | 370 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Mercedes-Benz CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3; later models Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 17.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Garrett GT1749V variable geometry turbo (VGT) | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 215 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM612.962 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W210 and W211 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine received EGR cooler revisions in 2003 to improve carbon resistance, creating limited interchangeability with earlier OM612 variants. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The OM612.962's primary reliability risk is injector failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 2008 indicated over 40% of OM612.962 engines beyond 250,000 km required injector replacement, while UK DVSA MOT records show EGR clogging as a common advisory. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear, making adherence to service schedules and fuel filtration critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Yes, the OM612.962 is mechanically robust and capable of high mileage when properly maintained. Its common-rail system offers improved efficiency and refinement over earlier indirect-injection engines. Common issues like injector failure occur predictably at high mileage (250,000+ km) and are serviceable. Using quality oil (MB 229.3) and clean diesel fuel is essential for reaching 350,000 km or more.
The most common issues are injector coking or failure, EGR valve and cooler clogging, and turbocharger actuator sticking. Coolant leaks from the EGR cooler are also frequent in older examples. These are wear items rather than design flaws, and all are well-understood with OEM repair procedures. Regular servicing significantly extends component life.
The OM612.962 was used exclusively in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup: the W210 E270 CDI (1998–2002) and the W211 E280 CDI (2003–2006). It was not used in other Mercedes models or licensed to other manufacturers. Pre-2003 models meet Euro 3; 2003+ models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Yes, the OM612.962 can be tuned via ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically increase output to 150–160 kW (204–218 PS) and 450–480 Nm, leveraging the robust common-rail system and turbo. However, higher power levels may accelerate injector and EGR wear. Tuning should be performed by specialists familiar with Mercedes CDI systems to maintain reliability.
In real-world driving, the OM612.962 achieves approximately 7.0–8.0 L/100 km (40–35 mpg UK) in mixed conditions. Highway efficiency improves to around 6.5 L/100 km (43 mpg UK). While less efficient than modern diesels, its economy is strong for a 2.7L five-cylinder of its era, especially in well-maintained examples.
Yes. The OM612.962 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will contact the valves, causing severe internal damage. The double-row chain is durable, but inspection is recommended beyond 250,000 km. Any timing-related noise should be investigated immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes-Benz specifies MB 229.3 (SAE 5W-40) engine oil for the OM612.962. This low-ash formulation is critical for protecting the common-rail injection system, turbocharger, and emissions components. Oil should be changed every 15,000 km or annually to ensure optimal longevity and prevent DPF/EGR issues.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
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