Mercedes-Benz M276958 Engine (2013–2017) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mercedes — Benz M 276.958 is a 2,996 cc, 60° V6 twin — turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust, and direct fuel injection (CGI). Delivering 328 kW (446 PS) in standard form and up to 368 kW (500 PS) in AMG variants, it powered high — performance sedans and coupes with rapid throttle response and strong mid — range torque.

Fitted to models such as the W222 S — Class, W…

Mercedes-Benz M276958 Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years meet Euro 6 standards (EU6b threshold from 2015) .

Mercedes-Benz M276958 Technical Specifications

The Mercedes-Benz M 276.958 is a 2,996 cc 60° V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance applications (2013–2017). It combines DOHC architecture with dual variable valve timing and CGI direct injection to deliver rapid throttle response and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it replaced the M 276.824 with updated calibration and revised valvetrain components for improved reliability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,996 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min)
Configuration
60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve
Aspiration
Twin-turbocharged (hot-V layout)
Bore × stroke
88.0 mm × 82.1 mm
Power output
328–368 kW (446–500 PS)
Torque
600–700 Nm @ 1,800–4,500 rpm
Fuel system
CGI direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 6 (EU6b from 2015)
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled, dual-circuit with electric water pump
Turbocharger
Twin IHI turbochargers (hot-V configuration)
Timing system
Dual chain (primary and secondary), hydraulic tensioners
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
186 kg

Mercedes-Benz M276958 Compatible Models

The Mercedes-Benz M 276.958 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W213/W222 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-cooling system tuning in the S-Class and revised intake in the C-Class-and from 2015 the W213 E-Class facelift introduced updated ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2013–2017
Models:
C-Class (W205)
Variants:
C 43 AMG
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2020
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2013–2017
Models:
E-Class (W213)
Variants:
E 43 AMG
View Source
Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2020
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2013–2017
Models:
S-Class (W222)
Variants:
S 43 AMG
View Source
Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35935
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2014–2017
Models:
GLE-Class (W166)
Variants:
GLE 43 AMG
View Source
Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A35935

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Common Reliability Issues - MERCEDES-BENZ M276958 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.

Camshaft adjuster gear wear or failure
Symptoms: Rattle at startup, erratic idle, cam timing deviation codes, reduced power, check engine light.
Cause: Early-design cam adjuster gears with insufficient fatigue resistance prone to tooth wear, leading to timing chain slippage and valve timing errors under sustained load.
Fix: Replace both cam adjuster gears and timing chain kit with the latest reinforced OEM parts per service bulletin; recalibrate cam timing and verify ECU adaptation.
Intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Hesitation, rough idle, reduced throttle response, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Direct injection (CGI) bypasses intake valves with fuel, allowing oil/air mixture to form carbon deposits on intake ports and valves over time.
Fix: Perform walnut blasting or chemical cleaning of intake ports and valves; renew PCV system components and use top-tier fuel additives preventatively.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, misfires under load, loss of power, fuel pressure DTCs.
Cause: Mechanical wear in the CGI high-pressure pump (up to 200 bar), exacerbated by low fuel levels or contaminated petrol.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump with OEM unit; inspect fuel lines and filter; ensure consistent use of high-octane fuel.
Coolant leaks from thermostat and water pump
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke, sweet smell, low coolant warning.
Cause: Age-related cracking in plastic thermostat housing and electric water pump seals; thermal cycling accelerates degradation.
Fix: Replace thermostat housing and water pump with updated metal-reinforced OEM parts; flush cooling system and bleed thoroughly.
Research Basis

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

MERCEDES-BENZ M276958 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 276.958 is generally robust with strong build quality, but early models (2013–2015) are prone to camshaft adjuster gear wear. Later revisions (post-2015) feature reinforced components that significantly improve durability. Consistent maintenance, timely oil changes with MB 229.51 spec oil, and use of premium fuel are essential for long-term reliability in this performance-oriented V6.

The most documented issues are camshaft adjuster gear wear (especially pre-2015), carbon buildup in the intake tract due to CGI, high-pressure fuel pump failures, and coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and technical reports for the W205, W213, and W222 platforms.

The M 276.958 was used in AMG 43-series performance models including the W205 C-Class (C 43 AMG), W213 E-Class (E 43 AMG), W222 S-Class (S 43 AMG), and W166 GLE-Class (GLE 43 AMG). It was phased out in 2017 with the introduction of the M256 inline-six engine.

Yes. ECU remapping can yield +50–70 kW on twin-turbo engines, with gains enhanced by supporting modifications like intercooler upgrades and exhaust systems. AMG versions already operate near stock limits, but non-AMG variants have significant headroom. However, aggressive tuning increases stress on the valvetrain and fuel system, so conservative tuning is advised, especially on pre-2015 units.

Fuel consumption is typical for a twin-turbo V6 in a performance vehicle. In an E 43 AMG (W213), expect ~12.5 L/100km (city) and ~8.1 L/100km (highway), or approximately 23 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary with driving style, but 20–25 mpg UK is common. The CGI system improves efficiency over port-injected predecessors, though performance driving reduces economy significantly.

Yes. The M 276.958 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. This makes timely inspection and replacement of timing components—especially the cam adjuster gears—critically important given the engine's complexity and repair cost.

Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-shear-stability oil is essential for protecting the turbochargers, high-pressure fuel pump, and hydraulic tensioners. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to maintain engine health and prevent premature wear.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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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.

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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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