The Mercedes — Benz OM 642.975 is a 2,987 cc, V6 turbo — diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2018. 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 195 kW (265 PS) and 620 Nm of torque, providing strong pulling performance and smooth acceleration.
Fitted primarily to th…
Production years 2013–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6792).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 642.975 is a 2,987 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for executive sedans and SUVs (2013–2018). 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 | 195 kW (265 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
Torque | 620 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 Mercedes-Benz OM 642.975 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212/W222/W166 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds for SUV packaging-and from 2015 the updated emissions calibration for enhanced DPF regeneration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The OM 642.975'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 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2015 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 (2013-2018) 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 OM 642.975 offers strong torque and refinement, but early models (2013-2014) showed higher HPFP failure rates under high-mileage use. Later revisions (post-2015) improved pump reliability with updated design and filtration. Well-maintained units with regular oil and fuel filter changes can exceed 300,000 km. Using high-quality diesel and MB 229.51 oil is essential for longevity.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump wear, EGR valve/cooling clogging, turbo actuator sticking, and oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins, particularly SIB 22/2013. Fuel quality and maintenance intervals significantly impact reliability, especially in urban or high-load applications.
The OM 642.975 was used in the W212 E-Class (E400 CDI) from 2013–2016, W222 S-Class (S400 CDI) from 2014–2017, and W166 ML-Class (ML 400 CDI) from 2013–2015. It was not shared with other Mercedes passenger vehicles but served as a basis for commercial derivatives in select markets.
Yes, the OM 642.975 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically add +30-40 kW safely, leveraging the robust V6 architecture. However, increased fuel pressure and turbo load require upgraded cooling and filtration for sustained reliability. Tuning should be performed by specialists familiar with Bosch EDC16 systems.
In an E400 CDI (W212), real-world consumption averages 9.2–11.5 L/100 km (24–31 mpg UK) depending on load and driving style. Highway cruising can achieve ~8.0 L/100 km (35 mpg UK). Heavier SUV use in ML-Class may exceed 12 L/100 km. Economy is competitive for a V6 diesel in its class.
Yes. The OM 642.975 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact is likely, resulting in severe internal damage. The front-mounted double roller chain is durable but requires correct tension and lubrication. Any abnormal noise from the timing cover should be investigated immediately.
Mercedes specifies MB 229.51 (5W-30) synthetic oil. This formulation ensures proper turbo bearing and chain lubrication under high load. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first. Using non-compliant oil can accelerate wear, particularly in the HPFP and turbocharger.
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)
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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