Mercedes-Benz M257920 Engine (2017–present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mercedes — Benz M 257.920 is a 2,999 cc, inline — six, turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and present. It features a 30° canted inline — six configuration with twin — scroll turbocharging, 48 — volt EQ Boost mild hybrid system, and direct fuel injection at up to 350 bar, delivering 270 kW (367 PS) in standard tuning, with peak torque of 500 Nm available from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm.

Fitted to mid — size and full — size luxury sedans and SUVs such as the W222 S — Class, W213 E…

Mercedes-Benz M257920 Engine
Compliance Note:

All production units (2017–present) meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards . No non-compliant variant was produced.

Mercedes-Benz M257920 Technical Specifications

The Mercedes-Benz M 257.920 is a 2,999 cc inline-six engineered for premium sedans and SUVs (2017–present). It combines a DOHC 24-valve layout with twin-scroll turbocharging and 48-volt EQ Boost system to deliver refined, responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances electrified efficiency with strong torque delivery.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,999 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
83.0 mm × 92.0 mm
Power output
270 kW (367 PS) @ 5,250–6,100 rpm
Torque
500 Nm @ 1,800–5,800 rpm
Fuel system
High-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner)
Timing system
Double roller chain (primary and secondary)
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
184 kg

Mercedes-Benz M257920 Compatible Models

The Mercedes-Benz M 257.920 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W222/W213/W167 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W222 and revised exhaust manifolds in the W167-and from 2023 the W223 S-Class adopted the M 256-based M 256H hybrid variant, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2017–2020
Models:
S-Class (W222)
Variants:
S 450
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2017
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2017–2023
Models:
E-Class (W213)
Variants:
E 450
View Source
Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A32500
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
GLE-Class (W167)
Variants:
GLE 450
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2017

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Common Reliability Issues - MERCEDES-BENZ M257920 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.

EQ Boost (BAS) failure
Symptoms: Limp mode, reduced power, warning lights (hybrid system), inability to perform torque fill or start-stop function.
Cause: Degradation of belt alternator starter (BAS) unit or 48-volt lithium-ion battery due to thermal cycling and voltage stress.
Fix: Replace BAS unit and/or 48-volt battery with OEM-specified parts; recalibrate system using Mercedes-Benz XENTRY diagnostics.
Turbocharger bearing wear or failure
Symptoms: Whining noise under boost, reduced power, oil leakage into intake, check engine light with boost pressure codes.
Cause: Early turbocharger design with marginal bearing cooling under sustained high-RPM operation, leading to oil coking and bearing degradation.
Fix: Replace with post-2020 revised turbocharger per Technical Bulletin 07.0250/20; verify oil flow and cooling system function after repair.
Ignition coil and spark plug failures
Symptoms: Misfires under load, rough idle, hesitation, check engine light, poor fuel economy.
Cause: Degradation of ignition coils and spark plugs due to high combustion pressures and thermal stress.
Fix: Replace all coils and spark plugs with OEM-specified parts; inspect for carbon buildup and oil ingress.
Cooling system failures (thermostat, water pump)
Symptoms: Overheating, temperature fluctuations, coolant loss, steam from engine bay.
Cause: Thermostats failing closed due to thermal fatigue; water pump impeller wear or seal failure from aged coolant.
Fix: Replace thermostat and water pump with updated units; flush cooling system and refill with MB 325.0 specification coolant.
Research Basis

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

MERCEDES-BENZ M257920 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 257.920 delivers smooth, responsive performance but early models (2017–2019) are prone to EQ Boost (BAS) and turbocharger issues. Later units (post-2020) with revised components are more durable. Longevity depends heavily on maintenance—consistent oil changes with 0W-40 MB 229.52 oil and attention to hybrid and cooling systems are essential for reliable operation beyond 120,000 km.

Key issues include EQ Boost (BAS) failure, turbocharger bearing wear, ignition coil failures, and cooling system leaks. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Regular inspection of BAS, turbocharger, and cooling components can prevent major failures and maintain peak performance.

The M 257.920 was used in the W222 S-Class (S 450, 2017–2020), W213 E-Class (E 450, 2017–2023), and W167 GLE-Class (GLE 450, 2018–2023). It was the first inline-six to feature EQ Boost mild hybrid technology. No external licensing or cross-manufacturer applications are documented.

Yes, within limits. ECU remapping can achieve gains of ~20-40 kW due to the engine's robust internals. Performance is best enhanced through exhaust, intake, and intercooler upgrades while preserving reliability. Over-tuning risks damaging the turbocharger and EQ Boost system due to the engine's integrated electrification and thermal loads.

Fuel consumption is moderate for a turbocharged six-cylinder. In the E 450 (W213), typical usage is ~9.8 L/100km (city) and ~7.2 L/100km (highway), or approximately 34 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary with driving style, but expect 30–36 mpg (UK) in mixed conditions. The EQ Boost system contributes to improved efficiency in urban driving.

Yes. The M 257.920 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. While the double roller chain design is robust, regular inspection and adherence to maintenance schedules are critical to prevent failure.

Mercedes-Benz specifies 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.52 standard. Use only high-quality synthetic oils designed for turbocharged petrol engines. Change oil every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper turbocharger and timing chain lubrication, preventing premature wear under aggressive driving conditions.

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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