Mercedes-Benz M177980 Engine (2015–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mercedes — Benz M 177.980 is a 3,982 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It served as the high — performance AMG powerplant for select GT and sedan models, featuring a hot — V layout with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 32 valves. In standard tune, it delivered 450 kW (612 PS), with peak torque of 850 Nm, providing explosive throttle response and track — focused dynamics.

Fitted to the C190 GT, W222 S — Class, and C217 CLS AMG variants, the…

Mercedes-Benz M177980 Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 emissions standards .

Mercedes-Benz M177980 Technical Specifications

The Mercedes-Benz M 177.980 is a 3,982 cc twin-turbo V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2015–2020). It combines hot-V architecture with direct injection to deliver track-capable power and responsive dynamics. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances extreme performance with street legality.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
3,982 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Hot-V V8, DOHC, 32-valve
Aspiration
Twin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke
83.0 mm × 92.0 mm
Power output
450 kW (612 PS) @ 5,500–6,250 rpm
Torque
850 Nm @ 2,500–4,500 rpm
Fuel system
Spray-guided direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 6
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Twin-scroll turbochargers (BorgWarner), chargecooled, mounted inside V bank
Timing system
Double-row roller chain (SOHC-style drive with DOHC cams)
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
187 kg

Mercedes-Benz M177980 Compatible Models

The Mercedes-Benz M 177.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's C190, W222, and C217 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W222 and shortened accessory drives in the C190-and from 2017 the facelifted C190 models adopted revised intake manifolds and updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
AMG GT (C190)
Variants:
AMG GT S, AMG GT C, AMG GT R
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2019
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2015–2017
Models:
S-Class (W222)
Variants:
S 63 AMG
View Source
Mercedes TIS Doc. A35726
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2015–2018
Models:
CLS-Class (C217)
Variants:
CLS 63 AMG
View Source
Mercedes TIS Doc. A35726

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Common Reliability Issues - MERCEDES-BENZ M177980 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine stalling, hard start, reduced power, fuel pressure warning, check engine light.
Cause: Mechanical wear in pump internals due to high-pressure operation and marginal fuel quality, leading to loss of rail pressure.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM-specified pump per service bulletin; verify fuel quality and filter condition after repair.
Cooling system failures (thermostat, water pump)
Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, temperature fluctuations, heater inefficiency.
Cause: Age-related degradation of wax-element thermostats and impeller erosion in water pumps.
Fix: Replace thermostat and water pump with OEM units; flush system and renew coolant every 4 years.
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets
Symptoms: Oil stains on engine top, burning smell, low oil level.
Cause: Hardened valve cover gaskets due to thermal cycling and age.
Fix: Replace gaskets with OEM parts; verify PCV system function to reduce crankcase pressure.
Intake manifold runner binding
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, check engine light, poor throttle response.
Cause: Carbon buildup and wear in the variable intake runner mechanism, restricting motion.
Fix: Clean or replace intake manifold assembly; recalibrate engine management system post-repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MERCEDES-BENZ M177980 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The M 177.980 offers exhilarating performance but early models (2015-2017) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump issues if maintenance is delayed. Later units (post-2017) with reinforced pumps and updated controls are significantly more durable. When maintained with correct oil (0W-40 MB 229.5) and regular coolant service, these engines can reliably exceed 120,000 km.

Primary issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure (especially pre-2017), cooling system failures (water pump, thermostat), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, and intake manifold runner binding. These are documented in Mercedes technical bulletins and field service reports from the 2010s.

This 4.0L twin-turbo V8 was used exclusively in AMG models: the C190 AMG GT (GT S, GT C, GT R), W222 S-Class (S 63 AMG), and C217 CLS-Class (CLS 63 AMG). Production spanned from 2015 to 2020, with minor updates in 2017 improving intake and engine management systems. It was not used in any other Mercedes or third-party vehicles.

Yes. ECU remapping can yield gains of 50-80 kW by optimizing boost, fuel, and ignition maps. Some owners add larger intercoolers and exhausts for further gains. However, the high-pressure fuel system and turbochargers are near their limits in stock form, so significant power increases require upgraded internals. Most tuning is done conservatively to maintain reliability.

Fuel consumption is very high by modern standards. In the AMG GT S, typical usage is ~24 L/100km (city) and ~14 L/100km (highway), or about 11.8 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 11-13 mpg (UK) in mixed conditions. High-octane fuel (RON 98) is required for optimal performance.

Yes. The M 177 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. While chain durability is generally good, any signs of timing noise or wear should be investigated immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.

Mercedes specifies SAE 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 specification. Use of high-quality synthetic oil is critical to protect the turbocharged valvetrain and maintain viscosity under high thermal load. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 24 months to prevent sludge and turbo degradation, especially in early production engines.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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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