Mercedes-Benz M266940 Engine (2017–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mercedes — Benz M 266.940 is a 1,332 cc, inline — three petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023. It features a DOHC 12 — valve configuration with turbocharging and direct fuel injection (CGI), delivering 80 kW (109 PS) and 170 Nm of torque. This compact engine was engineered for lightweight urban efficiency and responsive low — RPM performance in entry — level applications.

Fitted to the A — Class (W177) and B — Class (W247), the M 266.940 targeted city drivers seeking f…

Mercedes-Benz M266940 Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2017–2023) meet Euro 6c emissions standards .

Mercedes-Benz M266940 Technical Specifications

The Mercedes-Benz M 266.940 is a 1,332 cc inline-three petrol engine designed for compact urban models (2017–2023). It combines turbocharging with direct injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6c emissions standards, it balances city drivability with modern emissions control in entry-level luxury applications.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,332 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
74.0 mm × 77.0 mm
Power output
80 kW (109 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque
170 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm
Fuel system
Direct fuel injection (CGI)
Emissions standard
Euro 6c
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Single turbocharger with electronic wastegate
Timing system
Roller chain (rear-mounted)
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
98 kg

Mercedes-Benz M266940 Compatible Models

The Mercedes-Benz M 266.940 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W177/W247 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the W247 and revised engine mounts in the W177-and from 2020 the facelifted W177 received updated ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
A-Class (W177)
Variants:
A 150
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2017
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
B-Class (W247)
Variants:
B 150
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2017

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Common Reliability Issues - MERCEDES-BENZ M266940 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.

Timing chain tensioner wear or failure
Symptoms: Rattle at idle (especially cold start), timing chain noise, cam/crank correlation faults, metal particles in oil.
Cause: Early-design tensioner with inadequate oil supply during cold starts; exacerbated by extended oil intervals and low-RPM urban use.
Fix: Install updated OEM-specified tensioner and verify oil pump output per service bulletin; replace chain if excessive stretch is detected.
Turbocharger wastegate sticking
Symptoms: Loss of boost, over-boost DTCs, limp mode, poor throttle response.
Cause: Carbon buildup on wastegate linkage and actuator arm due to heat soak and oil coking.
Fix: Clean or replace wastegate actuator and linkage per OEM procedure; recalibrate boost control in diagnostics.
Ignition coil degradation
Symptoms: Misfires under load, rough idle, elevated hydrocarbon emissions, coil circuit DTCs.
Cause: Aging of coil packs; insulation breakdown under heat and vibration exposure over time.
Fix: Replace coil pack with latest OEM specification; inspect spark plug condition and boot seals.
Oil leaks from valve and rear covers
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips at rear of engine, residue on transmission bellhousing.
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover and rear timing cover gaskets; crankcase pressure rise due to CCV ageing.
Fix: Replace gaskets with OEM parts and renew CCV system; use correct torque sequence and MB-approved sealant.
Research Basis

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

MERCEDES-BENZ M266940 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 266.940 offers efficient, responsive performance but early models (2017–2019) had reliability concerns, particularly timing chain tensioner wear. Later revisions (post-2019) improved durability with updated materials and oil pump calibration. Well-maintained examples with regular servicing and correct oil (5W-30 MB-Approval 229.51) can be robust. Cold-start procedures and adherence to oil change intervals are critical for longevity.

The primary issues are timing chain tensioner wear (especially pre-2019), turbocharger wastegate sticking, ignition coil degradation, and oil leaks from valve and rear covers. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Secondary concerns include fuel injector coking and catalytic converter blockage due to high fuel consumption and infrequent highway driving.

This 1.3L inline-three was used in the A-Class (W177) A 150 from 2018–2023 and the B-Class (W247) B 150 from 2019–2023. It was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications were Euro 6c compliant, with no Euro 6b version produced.

Limited tuning potential exists due to the small displacement and entry-level calibration. ECU remaps can yield modest gains (~10–15 kW) by optimizing boost and ignition maps. Aftermarket upgrades like high-flow exhausts and intake systems offer minor improvements. However, the engine's strength lies in urban efficiency, so significant power increases are not feasible without major internal modifications.

Fuel consumption is very low due to displacement and lightweight design. In an A 150 (W177), typical use is ~6.8 L/100km (city) and ~4.8 L/100km (highway), or about 58 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures often range between 55–62 mpg (UK) depending on driving style. Highway cruising is more efficient than urban use due to the engine's low-RPM torque characteristics.

Yes. The M 266.940 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. Chain maintenance and proper lubrication are essential—any unusual rear-end noise should be investigated immediately to prevent engine seizure.

Mercedes-Benz specifies 5W-30 oil meeting MB-Approval 229.51. Use only high-quality synthetic oils designed for turbocharged petrol engines. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil selection ensures adequate tensioner lubrication and reduces wear in the timing chain system.

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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