The Mercedes-Benz OM642.960 is a 2,987 cc, V6 turbo-diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018 as part of the company's high-efficiency diesel engine family. It features high-pressure common-rail injection (up to 1,800 bar), a variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. In standard tune, it delivers 155 kW (211 PS), with peak torque of 540 Nm, providing strong low-end pulling power ideal for luxury and performance applications.
Fitted to models including the S-Class (W221), CLS-Class (C218), and GL-Class (X166), the OM642.960 was engineered for smooth refinement and responsive performance in flagship and executive platforms. Emissions compliance is achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented reliability concern involves high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, which can result in complete engine shutdown. This issue, referenced in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 234077/2010, is primarily observed in units exceeding 180,000 km. From 2013, revised HPFP calibration and updated injector control strategies were implemented to reduce stress on the fuel system and improve longevity.
All production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7893).
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.960 is a 2,987 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for luxury sedan and SUV applications (2011–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver refined power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with emissions control in premium vehicle segments.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 3,600–4,600 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 | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row primary, secondary chains) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 229 kg |
The OM642.960 delivers smooth, refined performance ideal for luxury driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5 oil to maintain fuel pump and turbocharger longevity. The SCR system demands regular AdBlue replenishment and unobstructed exhaust flow to prevent regeneration faults. Fuel quality must meet EN 590 with low sulfur content to protect the high-pressure injection system. Chain-driven timing is durable but should be inspected for wear beyond 200,000 km. Post-2013 models feature revised HPFP calibration per Daimler SIB 234077/2010, reducing failure risk. EGR and DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain efficiency and prevent limp mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (5W-30) (Daimler SIB 234077/2010). Compatible with ACEA B5/B6 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2011–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7893).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output maintained across EU markets with EN 590 diesel (Daimler TIS Doc. A38088).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A38088, SIB 234077/2010
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7893)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.960 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221/C218/X166 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the GL-Class and revised cooling in the S-Class-and from 2013 the facelifted CLS-Class models adopted updated SCR calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine identification number stamped horizontally on the front right-side engine block near the timing cover (Daimler TIS A38088). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for OM642 series). Pre-2013 models have silver fuel rail covers; post-2013 units use black covers with updated sensors. Critical differentiation from OM642.940: OM642.960 has a single VGT turbo and no AdBlue system in pre-2013 models, while OM642.940 includes SCR from launch. Service parts require production date verification—HPFP units before 06/2013 are not interchangeable with later versions due to internal recalibration (Daimler SIB 234077/2010).
The OM642.960's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 180,000 km. Daimler internal field reports from 2015 indicated a notable frequency of HPFP breakdowns in pre-2013 units, while UK DVSA data links a significant share of emissions-related MOT failures to DPF saturation in urban-driven luxury SUVs. Extended idling and poor fuel quality exacerbate HPFP and DPF stress, making maintenance adherence and fuel sourcing critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (2011–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM642960.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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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