Mercedes-Benz Engine Identification

Matrix — Fitment & Identification Guide

A comprehensive matrix of every Mercedes engine code and the chassis it was fitted to. Use this guide to identify which engine is in your car, confirm compatibility for replacement, and decode Mercedes engine codes with confidence.

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📊 9,000+ Real UK Enquiries
🔍 70% Repair-or-Scrap Threshold
⚙️ 30+ Engine Families Covered

The Short Answer

The Mercedes fitment matrix is your definitive reference for engine-to-chassis compatibility. Every Mercedes model is designed for a specific set of engine codes – the wrong engine won't fit, won't talk to the ECU, and will cause MOT and insurance issues. This matrix lists every major engine family, the chassis codes it was fitted to, and the models you'll find it in.

Scroll down for the full matrix, or use the table of contents to jump to the identification guide.

Mercedes Full Fitment Matrix

This table lists every major Mercedes engine family, the chassis codes it was fitted to, the key models, and the number of quote requests we received in 2025. Use this as your starting point for any fitment query.

Engine Code Type Displacement Chassis Codes Key Models EM Requests 2025
OM651Diesel2.1 LW204, W205, W212, W213, X253, W447, W906C‑Class, E‑Class, GLC, Sprinter1,250 [EM‑VERIFIED]
OM654Diesel2.0 LW205, W206, W213, W214, X253, X254, V167C‑Class, E‑Class, GLC, GLE520 [EM‑VERIFIED]
OM642Diesel3.0 V6W211, W212, W164, W166, X204, W251, W906E‑Class, ML/GLE, GLK, Sprinter880 [EM‑VERIFIED]
OM646Diesel2.1 LW204, W211, W906C‑Class, E‑Class, Sprinter (pre‑2010)Not in top 62
OM656Diesel2.9 LW213, W222, W223, V167E‑Class, S‑Class, GLENot in top 62
OM611/613Diesel2.2 LW203, W211, W906C‑Class, E‑Class, SprinterNot in top 62
OM640Diesel2.0 LW168, W169, W245, W414A‑Class, B‑Class, VaneoNot in top 62
OM617Diesel3.0 LW123, W126, G‑Class (1980s)E‑Class, S‑Class, G‑ClassNot in top 62
M276Petrol3.0 V6W212, W213, W166, C218, X166E‑Class, CLS, GLE, GLS390 [EM‑VERIFIED]
M274Petrol2.0 LW205, W213, X253C‑Class, E‑Class, GLCNot in top 62
M272Petrol3.5 V6W203, W204, W211, W164, X204, C219, R171, W221 (early)C‑Class, E‑Class, ML, GLK, CLS, SLK, S‑ClassNot in top 62
M270Petrol2.0 LW176, W246, X156A‑Class, B‑Class, GLANot in top 62
M177Petrol4.0 V8 BiturboW205, W213, W222, X166, V167C63, E63, S‑Class, GLE/GLS AMG370 [EM‑VERIFIED]
M157Petrol5.5 V8 BiturboW212, W221, W222, X166, C218E63, S63, GLE63, CLS63Not in top 62
M156Petrol6.2 V8W204, W212, X164, W463C63, E63, ML63, G63Not in top 62
M178Petrol4.0 V8 BiturboC190, R190, W463, X290AMG GT, G‑Class, AMG GT 4‑DoorNot in top 62
M275/M279Petrol5.5/6.0 V12W220, W221, C216, R230S600, CL600, SL600Not in top 62
M120Petrol6.0 V12W140, R129S600, SL600Not in top 62
M112Petrol2.8/3.2 V6W203, W210, W211, W163C‑Class, E‑Class, MLNot in top 62
M113Petrol5.0 V8W211, W220, W163, R230E‑Class, S‑Class, ML, SLNot in top 62
M111Petrol2.0 LW202, W203, W210C‑Class, E‑Class (pre‑2005)Not in top 62
M104Petrol2.8/3.2 Inline‑6W124, W140, R129E‑Class, S‑Class, SL (1990s)Not in top 62
M103Petrol3.0 Inline‑6W124, W126E‑Class, S‑Class (1980s)Not in top 62
M102Petrol2.0/2.3 LW201, W124190E, E‑ClassNot in top 62
M117Petrol5.0 V8W126, R107S‑Class, SL (1980s)Not in top 62
M133Petrol2.0 LW176, W177, X156A45 AMG, CLA45 AMG, GLA45 AMGNot in top 62
M256Petrol3.0 LW213, W222, V167E‑Class, S‑Class, GLENot in top 62
M264Petrol2.0 LW205, W213, X253C‑Class, E‑Class, GLCNot in top 62
M282Petrol1.3 LW177, X247A‑Class, GLBNot in top 62
M136Petrol1.3 LW176, W246A‑Class, B‑ClassNot in top 62
M137Petrol5.8 V12W220, C215S‑Class, CLNot in top 62

This matrix is based on factory fitment data and verified against our proprietary enquiry database. For full specification details, visit each engine's Knowledge Centre. For a visual representation, see the M272 vs M276 comparison or the OM642 vs OM651 guide.

How to Identify Which Engine Is in Your Mercedes

Use the matrix above to narrow down the possibilities, but to confirm the exact engine code, follow these steps:

  1. Check the engine code label.

    Open the bonnet and locate the sticker on the timing cover or camshaft cover. The code will be clearly marked (e.g., OM651, M276, etc.). For older models, the code may be stamped on the cylinder block.

  2. Use the VIN.

    The 8th character of your VIN often indicates the engine family. Use our free Mercedes VIN decoder for a full breakdown.

  3. Check your V5C logbook.

    The engine number is listed on the registration document. Cross‑reference with our Engine Code Guide.

If you cannot locate the code, a vetted Mercedes specialist can identify it during a service or inspection.

Why Correct Engine Identification Matters

Installing the wrong engine is one of the most expensive mistakes you can make. Here's why getting the code right is non‑negotiable:

Once you've confirmed the engine, you can check replacement costs and use the repair vs. replace calculator to make an informed decision.

Common Misidentifications – What to Watch For

Even experienced owners sometimes confuse similar codes. Avoid these pitfalls:

If you are unsure, use the OM vs. M‑series identification guide or contact a specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the engine code on my Mercedes without lifting the bonnet?

The easiest method is to check the 8th character of your VIN. Use our VIN decoder to get a full breakdown. You can also look at the V5C registration document, which lists the engine number – the engine code is usually the first part of that number.

What does "OM" stand for in Mercedes engine codes?

"OM" stands for Öl-Motor, which is German for oil engine – i.e., diesel. "M" stands for Motor and is used for petrol engines. This naming convention has been in place for decades.

Can I fit an engine from a different Mercedes model into my car?

Only if the engine code is listed for your chassis in the matrix above. For example, an OM651 from a W204 C‑Class will also fit a W212 E‑Class or X253 GLC, but you must check the specific variant and ECU compatibility. Always consult a specialist before buying.

What is the most common Mercedes engine in the UK?

Based on our 2025 enquiry data, the OM651 2.1 diesel is the most requested, with 1,250 quotes [EM‑VERIFIED]. It appears in the C‑Class, E‑Class, GLC, and Sprinter. The OM642 V6 diesel follows with 880 requests.

How much does it cost to replace a Mercedes engine?

Costs vary widely. A reconditioned OM651 supply‑only is around £2,800–£4,800, while an OM642 V6 is £3,200–£5,500, and an M276 petrol V6 is £3,800–£6,500 [EM‑QUOTE]. See the replacement cost guide for a full breakdown.

What does the 70% scrap threshold mean for Mercedes?

If the cost of a replacement engine (supply + fitting) exceeds approximately 70% of your car's current market value, it may be more economical to scrap the car. This threshold is a genuine guideline based on our proprietary data. For worked examples, see the repair/replace/scrap framework.

Our Verdict: Start Here Before Any Engine Work

✅ Essential

Knowing your engine code and its fitment is the single most important step before ordering a replacement, checking compatibility, or even diagnosing a fault. Use this matrix to identify your engine, then confirm with the VIN decoder and the Engine Code Guide.

Once you have confirmed the correct engine, the next step is to understand the cost. Visit the replacement cost guide and use the repair vs. replace calculator to make a financially sound decision.

Check Your Engine with Registration Lookup
🔍 15+ Vetted Mercedes Specialists
📞 9,000+ Real UK Enquiries
⚖️ Independent Editorial
📊 Data-Backed Guidance

Ready to identify your engine or get a quote? Compare prices from vetted Mercedes specialists.