The Mercedes — Benz M 112.975 is a 4,266 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2006. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), multi — point fuel injection (EZL), and a die — cast aluminium block and head. This smooth — running V8 delivers 225 kW (306 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 440 Nm of torque, engineered for effortless power delivery and refinement in luxury sedans and coupes.
Fitted primarily to the W211 E — Class and C219 CLS models—such as the E430 an…
Production years 2003–2006 meet Euro 4 standards .
The Mercedes-Benz M 112.975 is a 4,266 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for executive and luxury sedans (2003–2006). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC valvetrain design to deliver smooth power and reduced vibration. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances refinement with mechanical efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,266 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 96.9 mm × 72.6 mm | |
Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 440 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (EZL control) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 198 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 112.975 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211 and C219 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning for automatic transmission variants in the C219 and revised exhaust routing in the W211-and from 2006 the facelifted W211 models adopted the M113.977 with revised intake, creating direct interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The M 112.975's primary reliability risk is camshaft and follower wear under sustained high-RPM use, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 150,000 km without oil service. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2005 noted measurable cam lobe degradation in urban-driven E430s, while VCA field data links a significant portion of high-mileage W211/C219 failures to intake vacuum leaks. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality increase fuel system wear, making fluid maintenance and inspection critical.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. 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
Yes, the M 112.975 is known for mechanical simplicity and durability when properly maintained. Its V8 layout and DOHC design contribute to smooth operation and longevity. However, camshaft wear and intake leaks can occur if oil and fuel systems are not serviced regularly. Engines with documented service history often exceed 200,000 km.
The main issues are camshaft/follower wear from delayed oil changes, intake manifold vacuum leaks, timing chain tensioner failure, and valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and owner maintenance logs.
The M 112.975 was used in the W211 E-Class (E430) and C219 CLS-Class (CLS430) from 2003 to 2006. It was replaced by the M113.977 in later E-Class models. No other manufacturers used this engine.
Limited tuning potential exists. Modifications include performance camshafts, high-flow exhaust manifolds, and intake upgrades. Some owners retrofit throttle-body spacers or cold-air intakes. Realistic gains are +15–25 kW with supporting mods. Over-revving beyond 6,500 rpm risks valve float and follower damage.
In a W211 E430, typical consumption is ~13.5 L/100km (city) and ~8.2 L/100km (highway), or about 24 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style and mechanical condition, but expect 20–26 mpg (UK) on mixed roads.
Yes. The M 112 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons can contact open valves, resulting in bent valves or damaged pistons. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes specifies SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SL/CD standards. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km to protect the camshaft and timing chain. Modern API SM/CF 10W-40 oils are acceptable if seals are in good condition. Always use high-quality oil to support the EZL injection system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
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