The Mercedes-Benz OM616.939 is a 2,497 cc, inline-four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features indirect injection via a pre-chamber system and a robust SOHC valvetrain with mechanical valve adjustment. Designed for enhanced performance over naturally aspirated variants, it delivered 70 kW (95 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering improved drivability in passenger and light commercial applications.
Fitted to models such as the W124 250D, T1 610D van, and Vito (W638), the OM616.939 was engineered for balanced urban and regional operation with a focus on load-carrying capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through optimized combustion tuning and an oxidation catalyst, meeting Euro 2 standards as required by EU Directive 94/12/EC during its production window.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear, particularly in high-mileage applications with inconsistent oil maintenance. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 03 96, is typically associated with oil starvation during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. Later production runs incorporated revised oil feed lines and improved turbo cooling, with field inspections recommended for vehicles operating under sustained load.
Production years 1995–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Mercedes-Benz OM616.939 is a 2,497 cc inline-four diesel engine engineered for light-duty passenger and commercial vehicles (1995–2000). It combines indirect injection with a turbocharged SOHC valvetrain to deliver improved low-end torque and mechanical durability. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes reliability and serviceability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,497 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch inline injection pump, indirect injection (pre-chamber) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K14 fixed-geometry turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, ACEA B2/B3 | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The turbocharged design provides improved low-RPM torque ideal for city driving and light load carrying but requires proper cooldown after heavy loads to prevent turbo bearing damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA B2/B3 specifications is essential to maintain lubrication integrity under sustained load. Regular valve clearance checks (every 30,000 km) are critical due to mechanical tappets. The pre-chamber injection system is sensitive to fuel quality; use of non-compliant diesel can lead to injector coking and misfires. Turbocharger oil feed inspections are advised if oil leaks or smoke are observed, as per SIB 07 03 96. Cooling system maintenance is paramount to prevent thermal stress in prolonged operation.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, ACEA B2/B3 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 03 96). Compatible with MB 229.1 where applicable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1995–2000) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output unchanged across production run (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1995).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M102-616, SIB 07 03 96
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
EU Directive 94/12/EC - Emissions for Light-Duty Vehicles
The Mercedes-Benz OM616.939 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W124/T1/W638 platforms with longitudinal mounting and utilised in both passenger and commercial derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced oil pans in van applications and modified intake manifolds in W124 sedans-and from 1997 the updated Vito (W638) models adopted revised cooling configurations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS M102-616). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('4' for OM616 series). Pre-1997 units have a cast iron exhaust manifold; post-1997 variants may feature a steel unit. Critical differentiation from OM616.930: OM616.939 includes turbocharging and has a distinct injection pump calibration. Service parts require chassis number verification—turbo oil feed lines from pre-1997 builds are not interchangeable with later units due to revised routing per SIB 07 03 96.
The OM616.939's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear under poor lubrication conditions, with elevated incidence in commercial-use vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 1996 noted recurring turbo failures in T1 vans operating in stop-start conditions, while VCA MOT data links a significant portion of pre-2000 diesel failures to turbo-related smoke and oil consumption. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes increase bearing stress, making proper maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1995-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1996-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM616939.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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