The Mercedes — Benz M271.956 is a 1,796 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a supercharged and intercooled design with variable valve timing (VVT) and multi — point fuel injection. This engine was developed for compact and executive segment applications, delivering 135 kW (184 PS) and 270 Nm of torque, offering strong mid — range performance suitable for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models including the W204 C — Class, W169 A — C…
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2015 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market .
The Mercedes-Benz M271.956 is a 1,796 cc inline-four supercharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2008–2015). It combines Eaton M62 roots-type supercharger with intercooling and variable valve timing to deliver responsive mid-range power. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with moderate fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Supercharged (Eaton M62) with air-to-air intercooler | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
Power output | 135 kW (184 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,500–4,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2015) | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Supercharger | Eaton M62 roots-type (1.0 bar max boost) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, tensioner-regulated) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M271.956 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W169/W204 platforms with transverse mounting and adapted for front-wheel-drive applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A-Class and revised engine mounts in the C-Class-and from 2012 the facelifted C204 received updated bypass actuators, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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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.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M271.956 delivers responsive performance and good reliability when properly maintained. Early models (2008–2011) had higher incidence of supercharger actuator wear, but post-2012 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes (15,000 km) using MB 229.51 (5W-40) and coolant system maintenance are critical. Well-serviced engines regularly exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The most documented issues are supercharger bypass valve actuator failure, intake carbon buildup, coolant leaks from thermostat housing, and valve cover oil seepage. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and field reports. Actuator and thermostat housing failures are more common in pre-2012 models, while carbon buildup affects all variants over time.
This 1.8L supercharged petrol engine was used in the A-Class (W169), B-Class (W245), and C-Class (W204) from 2008–2015. It powered the C 180 Kompressor and C 200 Kompressor trims. Mitsubishi also used a licensed version in select Lancer models (2009–2013). Applications vary by market and emissions standard (Euro 4/Euro 5).
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M271956 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Moderate. In a C 200 Kompressor (W204), combined consumption is ~8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK). City driving may see 10–11 L/100km (26–25 mpg), while highway runs can achieve ~7.0 L/100km (40 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 28–35 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions for a healthy engine.
Yes. The M271 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. The chain is maintenance-free but should be inspected for wear if noise occurs. Immediate attention to rattling or timing-related DTCs is essential.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-shear-stability oil is critical for supercharger bearing protection and thermal management. Oil changes every 15,000 km or annually are required to maintain longevity and prevent sludge or actuator wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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