The Mercedes-Benz OM 642.910 is a 2,987 cc, V6 turbo-diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2016. It was engineered as a refined, high-torque powerplant for executive and luxury SUV applications, featuring common-rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and double overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivered 150 kW (204 PS) and 540 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end response and smooth cruising refinement.
Fitted primarily to the W212 E-Class (E350 CDI), W221 S-Class (S350 CDI), and W166 ML-Class (ML 350 CDI), the OM 642.910 was designed for drivers seeking a balance of comfort, responsive power delivery, and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling Euro 5 certification across its production run. Its design emphasized thermal efficiency and NVH reduction for premium driving refinement.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load operation, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 22/2012, was linked to fuel quality sensitivity and inadequate filtration in pre-2013 builds. From 2013 onward, an updated HPFP design and revised ECU calibration were implemented to improve long-term reliability under real-world conditions.
Production years 2011–2016 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6791).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 642.910 is a 2,987 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for executive sedans and SUVs (2011–2016). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and driving comfort. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with strong torque delivery.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | 90° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
| Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 1,600–2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Double roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 208 kg |
The V6 configuration delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.51 specification oil to maintain chain and turbo longevity. Use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is critical to prevent HPFP wear and injector coking. Cold starts should be followed by gradual warm-up to ensure oil pressure stabilizes before load application. EGR, DOC, and DPF systems require periodic inspection to prevent soot accumulation and backpressure issues. Post-2013 models benefit from revised fuel pump design and improved ECU calibration per SIB 22/2012.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.51 (5W-30) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 22/2012). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2011–2016) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6791).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 590 (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A33510).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32874, A33128, SIB 22/2012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6791)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Test Code
The Mercedes-Benz OM 642.910 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212/W221/W166 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds for SUV packaging-and from 2013 the updated emissions calibration for enhanced DPF regeneration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A32919). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for OM 642 series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-2013 units retain similar styling but feature updated fuel pump calibration. Critical differentiation from OM 642.850: OM 642.910 has Bosch CRS 2.0 injection with EDC16CP36 ECU and higher base rail pressure, while lower-output variants use different calibration. Service parts require production date verification - fuel filters for pre-2013 builds are not compatible with later units due to housing redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 22/2012).
The OM 642.910's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear under sustained load, with elevated incidence in high-mileage fleet use. Internal Mercedes data from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 units requiring pump replacement before 200,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased particulate-related failures in urban-operated E-Class models. Extended idling and poor fuel quality amplify pump and EGR stress, making filtration and oil adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2011-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM642910.
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)
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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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