The Mercedes — Benz OM642.854 is a 2,987 cc, V6 turbo — diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features common rail direct injection, twin variable geometry turbochargers (biturbo), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) per bank. In high — output configuration, it delivered 165 kW (224 PS) and 510 Nm of torque, serving as a performance — oriented diesel option in Mercedes' executive sedan and SUV lineup.
Fitted to models including the W211 E — Class, W221 S — Class, and…
All production years (2008–2013) meet Euro 5 standards .
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.854 is a 2,987 cc V6 twin-turbo diesel engineered for executive and luxury SUV applications (2008–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with sequential biturbocharging to deliver strong low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance through EGR, DPF, and SCR systems.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (biturbo, sequential VGT) | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
Power output | 165 kW (224 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
Torque | 510 Nm @ 1,600–2,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP3.3 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1549V & GT1749V, sequential) | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted, wet sump) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 218 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.854 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/W221/W164 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Chrysler 3.0L diesel variants in North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced oil pans in the ML-Class and revised cooling layouts in the S-Class—and from 2009, the facelifted E-Class (W211 FL) adopted updated EGR calibration, creating partial 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 OM642.854 offers strong performance and refinement, but pre-2009 models are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear. Later revisions (post-2009) improved pump durability with hardened components. Well-maintained engines using MB 229.51 oil and EN 590 diesel can exceed 250,000 km. Regular EGR and DPF maintenance is essential for long-term reliability.
Key issues include CP3.3 high-pressure fuel pump wear, EGR cooler clogging, turbo actuator sticking, and oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. These are documented in Daimler service bulletins and field reports. Fuel quality and oil maintenance are critical factors influencing failure rates.
The OM642.854 was used in the W211 E-Class (E 350 CDI), W221 S-Class (S 350 CDI), and W164 ML-Class (ML 350 CDI) from 2008–2013. It was also adapted for use in the Chrysler 300 (3.0L Diesel) from 2009–2010. All applications met Euro 5 standards, ensuring compliance across its production run.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the OM642854 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 combined driving, the OM642.854 achieves approximately 8.2–9.0 L/100 km (34–31 mpg UK). Highway efficiency improves to ~7.0 L/100 km (~40 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends on vehicle weight and driving style, but it remains competitive among high-output V6 diesel engines of its era.
Yes. The OM642.854 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. While the front-mounted dual chain is generally robust, any signs of chain rattle or oil starvation must be addressed immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes specifies MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) synthetic oil. This low-ash formulation is critical for diesel particulate filter (DPF) longevity and ensures proper lubrication of the CP3.3 fuel pump. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to maintain engine health.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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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