The Mercedes — Benz OM642.873 is a 2,987 cc, V6 twin — turbo diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features sequential turbocharging with low — and high — pressure variable geometry turbos, common — rail direct injection, and DOHC valvetrain with 24 valves. In standard applications it produces 195 kW (265 PS) and up to 620 Nm of torque, designed for high — performance luxury sedans and SUVs requiring strong low — end response and sustained highway power.
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All production years (2008–2013) meet Euro 5 emissions standards .
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.873 is a 2,987 cc V6 twin-turbo diesel engineered for performance-oriented luxury and SUV platforms (2008–2013). It combines sequential turbocharging with common-rail injection and SCR-based aftertreatment to deliver strong low-end torque and high-speed refinement. Designed exclusively for Euro 5 compliance, it balances performance with emissions control for global markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (sequential VGT) | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
Power output | 195 kW (265 PS) | |
Torque | 620 Nm @ 1,600–2,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 3.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Sequential twin VGT (Garrett GT1549V + GT1749V) | |
Timing system | Dual roller chains (longitudinal layout) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 204 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.873 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212/W221/W166 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design principles with Chrysler’s high-output 3.0L CRD engines in North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W166 and revised cooling routing in the W221-and from 2009, the facelifted W212 BlueTEC models adopted enhanced SCR-based aftertreatment, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Chrysler’s 3.0L CRD to leverage the OM642 architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The OM642.873 offers strong performance and smooth power delivery, but early models (2008–2009) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2009) improved pump durability and ECU calibration. Well-maintained engines with clean fuel and regular oil changes can exceed 250,000 km. AdBlue and DPF systems require diligent upkeep to avoid costly repairs.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure, EGR and intake carbon buildup, DPF regeneration problems, and AdBlue/SCR system faults. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins, particularly SIB 22/2010 for fuel system updates. Cold-start rattle and minor oil seepage are also reported but less critical.
This 3.0L V6 diesel was used in the E-Class (W212 E350 BlueTEC), S-Class (W221 S350 BlueTEC), and ML-Class (W166 ML350 BlueTEC) from 2008–2013. It was also shared with Chrysler under the 3.0L CRD designation in the Grand Cherokee (WK2) and Dodge Durango (2011–2013). All applications are Euro 5-compliant with SCR-based aftertreatment.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the OM642873 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 OM642.873 achieves approximately 8.2–8.9 L/100 km (34–31 mpg UK). Highway efficiency improves to ~7.3 L/100 km (~38 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 9.5 L/100 km (~29 mpg UK). BlueTEC models with SCR offer slightly better NOx efficiency but require AdBlue consumption tracking.
Yes. The OM642.873 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. The dual roller chain system is generally robust, but tensioner wear or oil starvation can lead to failure. Any timing-related noise should be investigated immediately.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, low-SAPS formulation is essential for DPF and SCR system longevity. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually, using OEM-approved filters. Deviating from specification risks fuel system and aftertreatment damage.
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.
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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