The Mercedes-Benz OM642.853 is a 3,009 cc, V6 turbo-diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2013. It was developed as a high-efficiency, high-torque powerplant for luxury sedans, coupes, and SUVs, featuring common-rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and double overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard configuration, it delivered 165 kW (224 PS) and 540 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pulling power with refined delivery across the rev range.
Fitted to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211), CLK-Class (C209), and GLK-Class (X204), the OM642.853 was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of performance, refinement, and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and optimized combustion tuning, enabling Euro IV and select Euro V compliance in later models.
One documented concern is degradation of the piezoelectric fuel injectors under extended high-load operation, highlighted in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 27/2009. Injector coking and internal wear can lead to misfires and uneven combustion. This issue was addressed through revised fuel calibration and improved cooling strategies in post-2010 production units.
Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro IV standards; 2011–2013 models comply with Euro V (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.853 is a 3,009 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for premium sedans and compact SUVs (2007–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro IV and V standards, it balances drivability with emissions control in a range of performance-oriented applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,009 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
| Power output | 165 kW (224 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 2,000–2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail with piezoelectric injectors (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro IV (pre-2011); Euro V (2011–2013) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted, long-life design) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The V6 configuration delivers strong, linear power ideal for spirited driving and moderate towing but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to protect the piezoelectric injectors and turbocharger. The Bosch CRS 2.0 system requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent coking and rail pressure instability. Turbo response is sharp at low RPM but sensitive to exhaust backpressure; blocked EGR passages can trigger DPF regeneration faults. Cooling system integrity is critical—overheating accelerates injector degradation. Post-2010 units benefit from revised fuel mapping and improved cooling per Daimler SIB 27/2009.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 27/2009). ACEA B5 or standard MB 229.5 insufficient.
Emissions: Euro IV applies to 2007–2010 models; Euro V certification for 2011–2013 units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 590 (Daimler TIS Doc. A37545).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37105, A37545, SIB 27/2009
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.853 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211, C209, and X204 platforms with longitudinal mounting and designated for performance-oriented applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-higher-flow oil cooler in the CLK 350 CDI and revised EGR calibration for stop-start duty-and from 2011 updated emissions control software to meet Euro V, creating minor service part and calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-left cylinder block near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A37105). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for OM642 series). Pre-2011 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2011 units feature revised emissions control modules and updated ECU firmware. Critical differentiation from OM642.822: OM642.853 has higher-output calibration (224 PS vs 204 PS), piezoelectric injectors, and Euro V compliance in later models. Service parts require build-date verification—injectors and ECUs before 09/2010 are incompatible with post-Euro V systems (Daimler SIB 27/2009).
The OM642.853's primary reliability risk is piezoelectric injector degradation under sustained load, with elevated incidence in performance and urban applications. Internal Daimler reports from 2012 noted increased injector failure rates in pre-2011 units exceeding 180,000 km, while VCA MOT data links turbocharger performance faults to EGR clogging in city-driven GLK-Class models. Extended idling and poor fuel quality amplify injector and turbo stress, making fuel filtration and oil change adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2007–2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM642853.
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
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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