The Mercedes-Benz OM613.960 is a 3,199 cc, inline-five, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1999 and 2006. It belongs to the second generation of the OM613 series, featuring indirect injection, a cast-iron block, SOHC valvetrain, and a mechanically controlled Bosch MAF inline injection pump. In standard tune, it produced 120 kW (163 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, offering strong performance for executive and commercial applications.
Fitted to the W210 E-Class (E320 CDI) and W220 S-Class (S320 CDI), the OM613.960 was engineered for smooth power delivery, high durability, and improved fuel efficiency over its naturally aspirated predecessors. Emissions compliance met Euro 3 standards through enhanced EGR and optimized combustion, allowing it to meet evolving European regulations without requiring a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
One documented concern involves premature wear of the injection pump's control rack, particularly in units subjected to extended idle periods or infrequent servicing. This issue, referenced in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 720.00-P-011842, can lead to unstable idle and poor throttle response. Later production batches from 2003 onward incorporated revised rack surface hardening and improved lubrication flow to reduce wear.
All production years 1999–2006 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz OM613.960 is a 3,199 cc inline-five turbocharged diesel engine designed for executive sedans and commercial use (1999–2006). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically controlled Bosch MAF-fuel pump to deliver responsive low-end torque and mechanical resilience. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances simplicity, reliability, and emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,199 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, SOHC, 10-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 102.0 mm | |
| Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MAF mechanical inline injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed geometry turbocharger (KKK K27) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 | |
| Dry weight | 255 kg |
The turbocharged inline-five design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for highway cruising and load-carrying applications but requires moderate engine speeds to maintain boost. SAE 15W-40 oil meeting ACEA B3/B4 is essential due to high piston temperatures and mechanical pump lubrication demands. Fuel quality is critical—water and particulate contamination can rapidly damage the Bosch MAF injection pump. Pre-2003 units should have fuel filters replaced every 15,000 km; later revisions tolerate 20,000 km intervals. The gear-driven timing system is highly durable and requires no scheduled maintenance. Engine longevity often exceeds 400,000 km with consistent maintenance, though control rack wear in the injection pump may necessitate rebuilds in high-idle applications such as delivery vans or service vehicles.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 specification (Daimler SIB 720.00-P-011842). Compatible with MB 229.1.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (1999–2006) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output unchanged across model years.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31278, SIB 720.00-P-011842
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz OM613.960 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W210 and W220 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W220 and revised cooling hose routing in the W210-and remained mechanically unchanged throughout its production, ensuring broad interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Daimler TIS A31304). The 6th and 7th characters of the VIN indicate engine type ('61' for OM613 series). All OM613.960 units have a black plastic valve cover with raised Mercedes-Benz lettering and a mechanical Bosch MAF injection pump at the rear. Critical differentiation from non-turbo OM613 variants: OM613.960 includes a turbocharger (KKK K27), intercooler, and reinforced oil pan. Service parts are generally interchangeable across model years, though pre-2003 fuel pumps require verification of calibration code.
The OM613.960's primary reliability risk is fuel injection pump control rack wear in vehicles with prolonged idle cycles, with elevated incidence in fleet and service applications. Daimler internal reports from 2004 indicated a significant number of pre-2003 pumps required recalibration before 250,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows mechanically injected diesel engines dominate long-term fleet reliability rankings when properly maintained. Infrequent filter changes and cold starts increase pump wear, making fuel maintenance and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (1999-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2001-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM613960.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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