The Mercedes — Benz M276.957 is a 3,498 cc, V6 twin — turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features a 90 — degree V6 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust, and direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT). In standard tune, it delivers 270 kW (367 PS) and 520 Nm of torque, providing strong low — end responsiveness and smooth power delivery ideal for performance sedans and coupes.
Fitted to key…
All production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 5 emissions standards .
The Mercedes-Benz M276.957 is a 3,498 cc twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine developed for mid-to-large Mercedes-Benz platforms (2012–2017). It combines direct injection (BlueDIRECT) with twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances power delivery with emissions control for global markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum) | |
Configuration | 90° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 270 kW (367 PS) @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 520 Nm @ 1,800–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (BlueDIRECT), twin high-pressure pumps | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (one per bank), intercooled | |
Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 192 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M276.957 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212, W221, and C218 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning in the E-Class and revised engine mounts in the S-Class-and from 2014 the updated high-pressure fuel pumps were introduced, creating minor service part differences. 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 M276.957 is generally robust with proper maintenance, but pre-2014 models are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear if oil changes are delayed. Later units (2014+) with hardened plungers show improved durability. Regular use of MB 229.51 oil and 15,000 km service intervals significantly reduce failure risk. Overall, well-maintained examples exceed 150,000 km reliably.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear (causing misfires), intake manifold gasket leaks (leading to vacuum faults), and valve cover oil seepage. Throttle body carbon buildup and oxygen sensor degradation are also common. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and confirmed by dealer service records.
This 3.5L twin-turbo V6 was used in several models: the E-Class (W212 E400/E400 4MATIC), S-Class (W221 S400/S400 Hybrid), CLS-Class (C218 CLS400/CLS400 4MATIC), and GL-Class (X166 GL450). It was phased out in 2017 and replaced by the M256 inline-six in most applications.
Yes. The M276.957 responds well to ECU remapping, with safe gains of +40–60 kW achievable through optimized boost, fuel, and ignition curves. Aftermarket intercoolers and exhausts can support higher power levels. However, fuel pump and turbo durability should be assessed before aggressive tuning. Most owners see reliable gains without hardware upgrades.
Real-world consumption is approximately 11–14 L/100km (20–26 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can achieve ~10 L/100km (28 mpg UK), while city driving may reach 16 L/100km (18 mpg UK). Fuel economy varies with driving style and vehicle weight, typical for twin-turbo V6 engines in mid-to-large Mercedes models.
No. The M276.957 uses a non-interference valvetrain design. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will not occur, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, timing integrity is still essential for proper engine operation and emissions compliance.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-SAPS formulation protects the high-pressure fuel pump and turbochargers. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and pump wear. Using non-compliant oil voids long-term reliability.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
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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