The Mercedes — Benz OM642.835 is a 2,987 cc, V6 turbo — diesel engine produced between 2006 and 2013 as part of the company's high — efficiency diesel engine family. It features high — pressure common — rail injection (up to 1,800 bar), a variable — geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. In standard tune, it delivers 165 kW (224 PS), with peak torque of 540 Nm, providing strong low — end pulling power ideal for luxury and per…
Production years 2006–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2013 models comply with Euro 5 regulations .
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.835 is a 2,987 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for luxury sedan and SUV applications (2006–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver refined power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with emissions control in premium vehicle segments.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
Power output | 165 kW (224 PS) @ 3,600–4,600 rpm | |
Torque | 540 Nm @ 1,600–2,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2006–2008); Euro 5 (2009–2013) | |
Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row primary, secondary chains) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 225 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.835 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/W164/X164 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the ML-Class and revised cooling in the E-Class-and from 2009 the facelifted GL-Class models adopted SCR with AdBlue, 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 OM642.835 is generally robust with strong build quality, but pre-2009 models are prone to HPFP failure beyond 180,000 km, especially with poor fuel quality. Later revisions (post-2009) improved pump calibration and longevity. When maintained with correct MB 229.5 oil and regular AdBlue top-ups (on BlueTEC models), these engines can reliably exceed 300,000 km in regular service.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure (especially pre-2009), DPF saturation from short trips, turbo actuator sticking, and timing chain guide wear. These are documented in Daimler service bulletins and field reports. Fuel system failure and regeneration faults are the most frequent causes of major repair.
This 3.0L diesel is used in the E-Class (W211), ML-Class (W164), and GL-Class (X164) models. It powers E 320 CDI, ML 320 CDI, and GL 320 CDI BlueTEC variants produced between 2006 and 2013. It meets Euro 4 (2006–2008) and Euro 5 (2009–2013) standards, with BlueTEC models using SCR and AdBlue for emissions control.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the OM642835 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.
In real-world use, the OM642.835 achieves approximately 8.5–10.5 L/100km (33–27 mpg UK) in the E-Class or ML-Class, and 10.0–12.5 L/100km (28–23 mpg UK) in the GL-Class. Highway driving can yield up to 35 mpg UK. Consumption depends heavily on load, driving style, and DPF regeneration frequency.
Yes. The OM642.835 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of chain guides and tensioners is essential, especially on high-mileage engines, to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes specifies MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-30) synthetic oil. This formulation is critical for protecting the HPFP, turbocharger, and DPF. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge buildup and maintain long-term reliability in premium applications.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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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