The Mercedes-Benz OM 613.961 is a 4,134 cc, inline-six, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It was engineered for heavy-duty commercial and luxury applications, featuring a Bosch VP44 rotary injection pump and a KKK K27 turbocharger. Delivering 145 kW (197 PS) and 620 Nm, it offered high torque output ideal for sustained load-carrying and highway performance.
Fitted primarily to the W220 S-Class and V215 Viano 639 models, the OM 613.961 was designed for refinement and durability in high-mileage environments. It met Euro 3 emissions standards through optimized combustion and mechanical fuel control, without requiring DPF systems in early builds. This engine represented the final evolution of Mercedes-Benz's large-displacement inline-six diesel architecture before the transition to common-rail systems.
One documented concern involves the high-pressure fuel pump, which in early production units may experience internal wear due to lubricity issues with ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD). This issue, highlighted in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 14-05-99, is linked to the Bosch VP44 pump's sensitivity to fuel quality. A revised pump calibration and fuel system upgrade were issued to address long-term reliability.
Production years 2000–2002 meet Euro 3 standards; 2003–2005 models may have enhanced emissions calibration depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 613.961 is a 4,134 cc inline-six turbocharged diesel engine engineered for flagship sedans and commercial vans (2000–2005). It combines a robust cast-iron block with a KKK K27 turbocharger and Bosch VP44 rotary injection pump to deliver high torque and mechanical resilience. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it emphasizes durability and load tolerance over compact packaging.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,134 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 145 kW (197 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VP44 rotary injection pump (mechanical-electronic hybrid) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K27 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven (no service interval) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 295 kg |
The turbocharged inline-six layout provides exceptional low-RPM torque ideal for towing and heavy-load applications. The gear-driven timing system eliminates the need for belt or chain replacement, reducing long-term maintenance costs. MB 229.3 (15W-40) oil is essential to protect the high-load VP44 injection pump and turbocharger bearings. Early production units may benefit from a fuel system inspection if operated on low-quality diesel; Bosch VP44 pumps are sensitive to contamination. No EGR or DPF systems in early models simplify maintenance, but later builds may feature basic EGR; fuel quality is critical to prevent pump failure.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 (15W-40) specification (Daimler SIB 14-05-99). Compatible with ACEA B4/B5.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (2000–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683). Market-specific variants may include EGR for enhanced compliance.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run with no significant market variants.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B30565, B31250, SIB 14-05-99
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5683)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing Standard
The Mercedes-Benz OM 613.961 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220 and V215 platforms with longitudinal mounting and reinforced chassis integration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W220 and heavy-duty cooling in the Viano-and from 2003 the facelifted W220 models adopted revised EGR routing, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Daimler TIS B30794). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for OM 613 series). Pre-2003 W220 models have a mechanical throttle linkage; post-2003 units use revised EGR routing. Critical differentiation from smaller variants: OM 613.961 features a KKK K27 turbocharger and larger oil pan. Service parts require chassis code verification - coolant pumps for W220 and V215 are not interchangeable due to mounting differences (Daimler SIB 14-05-99).
The OM 613.961's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in models produced before mid-2002. Daimler field reports from 2004 indicated a notable share of W220 S 420 CDI units requiring VP44 pump replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to the absence of DPF systems. Extended service intervals and use of non-specification diesel increase pump degradation risk, making preventive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (2000-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2003-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM613961.
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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