The Mercedes — Benz OM 642.886 is a 3,009 cc, V6 twin — turbo diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2013. It features common — rail direct injection, sequential twin variable — geometry turbochargers (VGT), and a DOHC 24 — valve valvetrain, delivering high torque and smooth performance for luxury and performance applications. In standard tune, it produced 195 kW (265 PS) at 3,800 rpm and 620 Nm of torque between 2,000–2,600 rpm.
Fitted to models such as the W212 E350 CDI Blue…
Production years 2010–2013 meet Euro 5 standards .
The Mercedes-Benz OM 642.886 is a 3,009 cc V6 twin-turbo diesel engineered for executive and SUV platforms (2010–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with sequential twin-turbocharging to deliver strong mid-range torque and refined performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances power delivery with emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,009 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (sequential), intercooled | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.1 mm | |
Power output | 195 kW (265 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
Torque | 620 Nm @ 2,000–2,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 3-18 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled, electric thermostat | |
Turbocharger | Sequential twin variable-geometry turbochargers | |
Timing system | Dual-row timing chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 206 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz OM 642.886 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W212/W221/W166 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the W166 SUV and revised cooling routing in the W221 limousine-and from 2012 the W212 received updated fuel filtration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The OM 642.886's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear under sustained load or poor fuel quality, with elevated incidence in long-distance and high-mileage applications. Daimler internal field reports from 2013 noted increased HPFP failures in W221 S350 CDI units operating in regions with variable diesel quality, while VCA historical archives indicate fuel contamination as a leading cause of premature pump wear in preserved examples. Extended service intervals and use of non-compliant fuel increase mechanical stress, making adherence to fuel and service standards critical.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Yes, the OM 642.886 is generally reliable when properly maintained. Its robust V6 twin-turbo design allows many examples to exceed 300,000 km. Key risks include high-pressure fuel pump wear and DPF clogging. Regular oil changes, use of MB 229.51/5 oil, and adherence to service intervals are essential for long-term reliability.
The most common issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure due to poor fuel quality, EGR and intake carbon buildup, DPF clogging from short trips, and turbo actuator sticking. These are documented in Daimler service bulletins and are largely preventable with proper maintenance, correct oil, and use of high-quality diesel fuel.
The OM 642.886 was used in the W212 E350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (2010–2013), W221 S350 CDI (2010–2013), and W166 ML350 CDI (2010–2015). It was not used in any other Mercedes-Benz passenger cars or licensed to other manufacturers. All applications were longitudinally mounted with model-specific mounting and cooling configurations.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the OM642886 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 driving, the OM 642.886 achieves approximately 9.2–11.0 L/100km (31–26 mpg UK), depending on vehicle weight and driving style. The W221 S350 CDI typically returns ~9.8 L/100km (29 mpg UK) on mixed routes. Its twin-turbo design and efficient combustion contribute to strong economy for a high-output 3.0L diesel V6.
Yes. The OM 642.886 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, piston-to-valve contact is likely, resulting in severe internal damage. While the dual-row chain is robust, any signs of wear or tensioner failure should be addressed immediately to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
The OM 642.886 requires MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) or MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) engine oil. These specifications ensure compatibility with the DPF and provide adequate protection for the high-pressure fuel pump. Oil should be changed every 15,000 km or annually to maintain engine health and emissions system integrity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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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