The Mercedes — Benz M 276.952 is a 3,498 cc, 90° V6 petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features direct and port fuel injection (Twin Direct Injection), twin — scroll turbocharging, and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard tuning, it delivered 245 kW (333 PS) and 480 Nm of torque, providing strong mid — range performance and responsive throttle characteristics.
Fitted to mid — size and full — size platforms including the W204 C —…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2017 models meet Euro 6 standards .
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.952 is a 3,498 cc 90° V6 turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented luxury applications (2012–2017). It combines twin-scroll turbocharging with dual injection (direct and port) to deliver responsive power and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances performance with compliance in longitudinal and transverse mounting configurations.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-scroll turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 245 kW (333 PS) @ 5,250–6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 480 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Twin Direct Injection (TDI) – direct and port injection (ME 17.8 control unit) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2017) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbocharger (BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Dual chain (short-block to cylinder heads) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 178 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 276.952 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204, W212, and X204 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-adaptive throttle response in the E-Class and revised torque delivery in the GLK-Class-and from 2015, minor internal revisions improved fuel pump durability, creating service part 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 M 276.952 is a modern, compact V6 with strong performance, but pre-2015 models are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear if oil changes are delayed. Later revisions improved durability, so well-maintained engines can exceed 150,000 km. Using MB 229.51 oil and adhering to 15,000 km service intervals is essential for longevity.
The primary issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear (causing hard starts and misfires), oil leaks from ageing valve cover gaskets, and ignition coil failures leading to misfires. Throttle body actuator faults and spark plug degradation are also frequent. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and technical forums.
This 3.5L turbo petrol was used in several mid-size and full-size models: C-Class (W204) C 350 (2012–2014), E-Class (W212) E 350 (2012–2016), GLK-Class (X204) GLK 350 (2012–2015), and CLS-Class (C218) CLS 350 (2012–2017). Models from 2015 onward meet Euro 6 emissions standards.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M276952 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.
Efficient for a performance V6. In an E 350 (W212), combined consumption is ~8.5 L/100km (~33 mpg UK). City driving may reach 11–13 L/100km (~26–22 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~7.0 L/100km (~40 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 25–33 mpg (UK) in mixed conditions.
Yes. The M 276 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Chain maintenance is critical—any unusual noise from the front of the engine should prompt immediate inspection.
Mercedes specifies SAE 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-detergent formulation protects the high-pressure fuel pump and maintains engine cleanliness. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and wear in critical hydraulic components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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