The Mercedes — Benz OM642.884 is a 2,987 cc, V6 turbo — diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2018. It features common — rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and DOHC 24 — valve configuration. In standard output, it delivers 165 kW (224 PS) and 540 Nm of torque, with applications across executive sedans and luxury SUVs.
Fitted to models such as the W211 E — Class, W221 S — Class, and W164 ML — Class, the OM642.884 was engineered for balanced performanc…
Production years 2007–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models comply with Euro 5; 2014–2018 variants achieve Euro 6 compliance depending on market .
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.884 is a 2,987 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for executive and SUV applications (2007–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 through Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with efficiency and long-distance refinement.
| 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 rpm | |
Torque | 540 Nm @ 1,600–2,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 3.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2007–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2013); Euro 6 (2014–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted, robust design) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 196 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM642.884 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/W221/W164 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W164 and revised cooling circuits in the W221-and from 2010 the updated W211 facelift adopted the OM642.984 variant with CP4 fuel system revisions, 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 OM642.884 offers smooth performance and strong torque, but early models (2007-2009) are prone to HPFP failures, especially with poor fuel quality. Later revisions (post-2010) with CP4 pumps improved reliability. Well-maintained units with proper oil changes and quality diesel can exceed 250,000 km. Using MB 229.5 oil and adhering to service intervals is essential for longevity.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure, EGR valve and cooler clogging, turbo actuator sticking, and oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Fuel quality significantly impacts HPFP and injector life. Regular EGR cleaning and use of OEM-spec oil help mitigate common failures.
This 3.0L V6 diesel was used in the W211 E-Class (E320 CDI), W221 S-Class (S320 CDI), W164 ML-Class (ML320 CDI), X164 GL-Class (GL320 CDI), and W251 R-Class (R320 CDI) from 2007 to 2018. It was phased out in favor of newer OM65x variants. No cross-manufacturer usage is documented for this variant.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the OM642884 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 OM642.884 achieves approximately 7.6–8.3 L/100km (37–34 mpg UK). Highway driving can yield as low as 6.4 L/100km (~44 mpg UK), while city use may exceed 9.1 L/100km (~31 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends on vehicle weight and driving style, but it remains competitive for a 3.0L diesel V6.
Yes. The OM642 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. While the front-mounted dual chain is robust, inspection beyond 200,000 km is advised. Any abnormal noise from the timing cover warrants immediate investigation.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This low-SAPS formulation is essential for DPF and turbo longevity. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually. Using non-compliant oil can lead to CCV clogging, increased oil consumption, and aftertreatment damage.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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