The Mercedes — Benz OM642.970 is a 2,987 cc, V6 turbo — diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It was engineered as a refined mid — range diesel powerplant for luxury sedans and SUVs, featuring common — rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and DOHC valvetrain architecture. In standard tune it delivered 150 kW (204 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, providing strong low — end response suitable for smooth urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to th…
All production years 2013–2018 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894).
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.970 is a 2,987 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for mid-size and full-size luxury vehicles (2013–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances premium refinement with robust diesel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
Torque | 500 Nm @ 1,600–2,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 17.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 198 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.970 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W213/W222/W166 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake manifolds in the W213 and revised exhaust routing in the W222-and from 2016 the facelifted W213 LCI models adopted updated EGR cooling, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The OM642.970's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-compliant diesel or extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz field reports from 2014 indicated a significant portion of pre-2014 units required HPFP replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults contribute to emissions failures in urban-driven examples. Poor fuel quality and infrequent servicing increase pump and injector stress, making fuel filtration and oil specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2013–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The OM642.970 offers smooth power and good efficiency, but pre-2014 models are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear if maintenance is delayed. Later units with updated pumps and filters show improved durability. Regular oil changes using MB 229.51 5W-30 and high-quality diesel fuel are essential for longevity. Well-maintained examples can exceed 250,000 km without major repairs.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump degradation, EGR valve/coolant clogging, turbo actuator sticking, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins, particularly SIB 20/2013 for the HPFP. Carbon buildup in intake and EGR systems is common in city-driven vehicles with short trip cycles.
This 3.0L V6 diesel was used in the W213 E-Class (E 300 CDI), W222 S-Class (S 300 CDI), and W166 GL-Class (GL 300 CDI) from 2013 to 2018. It was not offered in other model lines or licensed to third parties. All units meet Euro 6 emissions standards and feature longitudinal engine mounting.
Yes. ECU remaps can safely increase output by +20–30 kW on stage 1, as the stock internals handle moderate torque increases. Supporting modifications like upgraded intercoolers and exhausts improve reliability under tuning. However, the HPFP has limited headroom, so aggressive tuning risks premature failure.
In the E 300 CDI (W213), typical consumption is ~10.6 L/100km (city), ~6.9 L/100km (highway), or ~8.4 L/100km combined (33 mpg UK). Real-world figures vary by driving style, but expect 31–36 mpg (UK) in mixed conditions. The V6 layout and vehicle weight result in efficiency between four-cylinder and larger V8 diesels.
Yes. The OM642 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. The front-mounted dual-row chain is robust but requires proper lubrication. Any abnormal noise from the timing cover should prompt immediate inspection.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash formulation protects the EGR and turbo systems and ensures proper HPFP lubrication. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first, to maintain engine longevity and prevent deposit formation.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.