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Mercedes M276 Engine - Replacement Cost, Problems & CompatibilityProblems & Compatibility
The 3.0-litre to 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine fitted to core Mercedes-Benz models from 2011 to 2020, including the E-Class, CLS, and GLE. Reconditioned Mercedes M276 units are available from £3,800 , backed by data from 390 UK replacement requests in 2025 .
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
Used from
£2,000
Reconditioned from
£3,800
Rebuilt from
£5,500
GB
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Quotes only from vetted UK engine specialists.
Key Specs
Mercedes M276 - Specifications at a Glance
Engine Code
M276 (M276.920, M276.940, M276.950, M276.960)
Fuel
Petrol
Configuration
3.0L-3.5L V6 (naturally aspirated or biturbo)
Power Output(s)
185kW (252hp) - 245kW (333hp) depending on variant
Years Produced
2011-2020
UK Models Fitted
6+ Mercedes models - full list in Compatibility below
2025 UK Replacement Requests
390
Replaced
M272
Replaced By
M256 / M278
Most Common Failure
Timing chain stretch and intake valve carbon buildup
Reconditioned Price Range
£3,800-£6,500 supply-only
Vetted UK specialists for M276 replacements
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Fitted To
Which Mercedes Models Use the M276-
TAG: Fitted To
| Model | Generation/Chassis | Badge(s) | Years | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Mercedes-Benz E-Class | W213 | E300, E350, E400 | 2016-2020 | |
| Mercedes-Benz CLS | C218 | CLS350, CLS400 | 2011-2018 | |
| Mercedes-Benz CLS | C257 | CLS400, CLS450 | 2018-2020 | |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | W166 | GLE350, GLE400 | 2015-2019 | |
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class | W221 | S300, S350 | 2011-2013 | |
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class | W222 | S300, S350 | 2013-2020 | |
| Mercedes-Benz ML | W164 | ML350 | 2011-2015 | |
| Mercedes-Benz GL | X166 | GL350, GL400 | 2012-2016 |
02
Mercedes-Benz CLS
03
Mercedes-Benz CLS
04
Mercedes-Benz GLE
05
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
06
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
07
Mercedes-Benz ML
08
Mercedes-Benz GL
CROSS-BRAND
M276 is documented across 8 BMW applications spanning E-Class, CLS, GLE, S-Class, ML, GL. Registration lookup confirms the exact suffix before quotes are sent.
Not sure which engine your car has?
Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact M276 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Prices
Mercedes M276 Engine Replacement Cost (UK)
Condition | Supply Only | Fitted (Independent Specialist) | Typical Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Used | £2,000-£3,800 | £2,780-£4,840 | 3-6 months |
Reconditioned | £3,800-£6,500 | £4,580-£7,540 | 12-24 months |
Rebuilt | £5,500-£8,500 | £6,280-£9,540 | 12-24 months |
The final cost of a Mercedes M276 engine replacement is heavily influenced by whether the unit is naturally aspirated or biturbo, and the condition of the timing chain guides. Biturbo variants (.920, .960) carry a premium due to the complexity of the hot-vee turbo plumbing and intercoolers. Additionally, direct-injection variants often require intake valve carbon cleaning during the swap. See our full reconditioned engine cost guide for a detailed breakdown of what is included at each price tier.
Labour Guide
Fitting a Mercedes M276 typically takes 12-16 hours at £65/hr (independent specialist rate) - confirm exact labour when comparing quotes, as the 90-degree V6 layout requires careful access planning.
Price Factors
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Common Problems
Mercedes M276 Engine Problems - What Actually Fails
Every engine has its weak points. Here are the known issues with the M276, based on real-world data and verified failure patterns.
Verified issue focus: Timing chain stretch and intake valve carbon buildup.
1. Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear
1. Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear
Typical onset:
60,000-120,000 miles
What happens:
Early production M276 engines are susceptible to timing chain stretch and plastic guide wear. This manifests as a distinct metallic rattling noise on cold starts, followed by check engine lights indicating camshaft correlation faults. If ignored, the chain can jump teeth, leading to catastrophic valve-to-piston contact.
Repair vs replace:
If caught early, replacing the timing chain kit, tensioners, and guides is viable, though it is a labour-intensive job requiring significant front-end strip-down. If internal damage has already occurred, a full Mercedes M276 engine replacement is the only reliable solution.
Read more about this issue
2. Intake Valve Carbon Buildup (Direct Injection Variants)
2. Intake Valve Carbon Buildup (Direct Injection Variants)
Typical onset:
50,000-100,000 miles
What happens:
On M276 variants equipped with direct injection, fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinder, bypassing the intake valves. This eliminates the "washing" effect of port injection, allowing oil vapours from the PCV system to accumulate and form hard carbon deposits on the intake valves and ports. This leads to rough idle, misfires, and reduced power.
Repair vs replace:
Carbon buildup is addressed via walnut blasting or chemical cleaning of the intake tract, not engine replacement. However, severe neglect combined with timing chain issues can compound repair costs, making a reconditioned swap more economical than piecemeal repairs.
Read more about this issue
3. Oil Leaks from Gaskets and Seals
3. Oil Leaks from Gaskets and Seals
Typical onset:
70,000-120,000 miles
What happens:
The M276 is prone to oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, oil cooler seals, and camshaft adjuster solenoids. Over time, heat cycles cause these rubber components to harden and crack, leading to oil loss and a persistent burning oil smell in the cabin.
Repair vs replace:
Gasket and seal replacement is a standard, relatively inexpensive preventative repair. However, if severe oil starvation has occurred due to ignored leaks, a reconditioned engine swap becomes the most economical long-term fix.
Read more about this issue
Compare rebuilt M276 prices with the failure already addressed
Engine Variants
M276 Sub-Codes Explained - Which One Is in Your Car-
The M276 family covers several raw sub-codes that share the same core 90-degree V6 architecture but differ by displacement, forced induction, and calibration. Identifying your exact sub-code is critical, as components like the turbochargers, intake manifold, ECU, and engine mounts are not universally interchangeable. - Fitted to: Mercedes E-Class (W213 E400), CLS (C218/C257 CLS400) - Key technical difference: Features twin turbochargers mounted in the "hot-vee" between the cylinder banks, paired with direct injection for high torque output. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family timing chain pattern; hot-vee turbo plumbing adds complexity to oil leak diagnostics. - Interchange note: Not a straight swap with naturally aspirated variants; the ECU, wiring loom, exhaust manifolds, and cooling systems differ significantly. - Fitted to: Mercedes E-Class (W213 E350), Mercedes ML (W164 ML350), Mercedes GL (X166 GL350) - Key technical difference: The mid-range 3.5-litre naturally aspirated variant, featuring port injection (or early direct injection in some markets) and a conventional intake layout. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family timing chain and oil leak patterns; carbon buildup is less severe than on later direct-injection-only models. - Interchange note: Physically similar to the 3.0L biturbo but requires the correct ECU calibration and specific exhaust routing to run safely. - Fitted to: Mercedes E-Class (W213 E300), Mercedes S-Class (W221/W222 S300 Hybrid) - Key technical difference: The entry-level 3.0-litre variant, often paired with a mild-hybrid system (e.g., S300 BlueHYBRID) to improve urban fuel economy. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family timing chain pattern; hybrid integration requires specific ECU and electrical compatibility. - Interchange note: Cannot be swapped with higher-output 3.5L or biturbo units without extensive ECU, wiring, and hybrid system modifications. - Fitted to: Mercedes GLE (W166 GLE400), CLS (C218/C257 CLS400) - Key technical difference: The high-output 3.5-litre biturbo variant, featuring revised turbochargers and updated engine calibration for increased torque in heavier SUV applications. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family timing chain pattern; higher thermal loads on SUV applications can accelerate oil seal degradation if service intervals are extended.
The M276 engine code is stamped on a machined pad on the engine block, typically near the oil filter housing or bell housing. It is also clearly listed on your vehicle's V5C registration document under "Engine Number". Enter your registration above to confirm your exact M276 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Easily Confused
M272
- The 120-degree V6 it replaced, which suffered from notorious balance shaft sprocket wear; the M276's 90-degree architecture and revised timing components largely resolved this specific vulnerability.
Alternative / Next-Gen Code
M256
- The inline-6 successor introduced in 2017, which abandoned the V6 layout entirely in favour of a 48V mild-hybrid inline-6 to improve packaging, efficiency, and emissions compliance.
Related JLR Variants
M278
- The 4.6L/5.5L V8 twin-turbo counterpart of the same modular family; owners of V8-powered S-Class, E-Class, or CLS models should look here, as the M278 shares the hot-vee turbo architecture but differs significantly in displacement and mounting.
Confirm the exact M276 fitment
The M276 engine code is stamped on a machined pad on the engine block, typically near the oil filter housing or bell housing. It is also clearly listed on your vehicle's V5C registration document under "Engine Number". Enter your registration above to confirm your exact M276 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Buying Guide
Buying a Replacement Mercedes M276 - What to Choose
Choosing the right replacement route depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and ownership goals. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Used:
A used Mercedes M276 is only advisable for lower-mileage host vehicles and *only* if accompanied by documented, stamped service history proving the timing chain and guides have been inspected or replaced. Without this history, the risk of inheriting the same catastrophic chain-jump issues is unacceptably high.
Reconditioned:
This is the most recommended route for the M276. A proper reconditioned unit will include brand-new timing chain components, refreshed valve cover and oil cooler gaskets, and a cleaned intake tract to address direct-injection carbon buildup, directly addressing the engine's known weak points out of the box.
Rebuilt:
A full rebuild is justified if your original M276 suffered a jumped timing chain that damaged the cylinder head, valves, or pistons. A specialist rebuild will machine the block, fit updated timing components, and ensure all oil galleries are clear of debris from the failed chain.
Supply & Fit Line:
Sourcing a replacement is only half the job. Our network provides full supply and fit services, ensuring the engine is installed by Mercedes-specialist technicians with a nationwide warranty backing both the labour and the unit.
Vehicle Value Note:
For core hosts like the W213 E-Class, W166 GLE, and W222 S-Class, current UK market values typically sit between £8,000 and £35,000 . With a reconditioned M276 replacement costing from £3,800 (plus fitting), the repair cost generally represents 20-40% of the vehicle's value, making replacement financially viable and a safe investment for well-maintained examples.
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Related Engines
Engines Related to the Mercedes M276
Explore engines that are closely related to the Mercedes-Benz M276, including its predecessor, successor, and key family variants.
Predecessor
M272
- The 120-degree V6 it replaced, which suffered from notorious balance shaft sprocket wear; the M276's 90-degree architecture and revised timing components largely resolved this specific vulnerability.
Successor
M256
- The inline-6 successor introduced in 2017, which abandoned the V6 layout entirely in favour of a 48V mild-hybrid inline-6 to improve packaging, efficiency, and emissions compliance.
Sibling
M278
- The 4.6L/5.5L V8 twin-turbo counterpart of the same modular family; owners of V8-powered S-Class, E-Class, or CLS models should look here, as the M278 shares the hot-vee turbo architecture but differs significantly in displacement and mounting.
FAQ
Mercedes M276Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a Mercedes M276 engine replacement cost in the UK-
A Mercedes M276 engine replacement typically costs between £3,800 and £6,500 for a reconditioned supply-only unit . Fitted costs generally add £780-£1,040 for independent specialist labour, and fully rebuilt units with upgraded timing components can reach £5,500-£8,500 supply-only.
- Fitted costs generally add £780-£1,040 for independent specialist labour.
- Fully rebuilt units with upgraded timing components can reach £5,500-£8,500 supply-only.
Question 2What is the most common failure with the Mercedes M276 engine-
The most documented failure patterns for the M276 are timing chain stretch/guide wear and intake valve carbon buildup on direct-injection variants. Early warning signs include a metallic rattle on cold starts and camshaft correlation fault codes, while carbon buildup manifests as a rough idle, misfires, and reduced power, often requiring walnut blasting to resolve.
- Early warning signs include a metallic rattle on cold starts and camshaft correlation fault codes.
- Carbon buildup manifests as a rough idle, misfires, and reduced power, often requiring walnut blasting to resolve.
Question 3Which Mercedes models use the M276 engine-
The M276 is fitted to Mercedes-Benz core models from 2011 to 2020, including the E-Class (W213), CLS (C218/C257), GLE (W166), and S-Class (W221/W222). It powers badges ranging from the E300 and E350 to the GLE400 and S350, and you should always verify your exact sub-code via registration lookup before ordering parts.
- It powers badges ranging from the E300 and E350 to the GLE400 and S350.
- You should always verify your exact sub-code via registration lookup before ordering parts.
Question 4Should I buy a used or reconditioned Mercedes M276 engine-
A reconditioned Mercedes M276 is strongly recommended over a used unit due to the well-documented timing chain and carbon buildup risks. Used units carry a high probability of inheriting the same latent wear unless accompanied by stamped proof of a full chain kit replacement, whereas a proper reconditioned M276 includes new timing chain components, refreshed gaskets, and a cleaned intake tract as standard.
- Used units carry a high probability of inheriting the same latent wear unless accompanied by stamped proof of a full chain kit replacement.
- A proper reconditioned M276 includes new timing chain components, refreshed gaskets, and a cleaned intake tract as standard.
Question 5What is the difference between the M276.920, M276.940, M276.950, and M276.960-
The M276.920 is a 3.0L biturbo, the M276.940 is a 3.5L naturally aspirated, the M276.950 is a 3.0L naturally aspirated (often hybrid), and the M276.960 is a 3.5L biturbo. While they share the same core 90-degree V6 architecture, they differ in forced induction, displacement, and ECU calibration, meaning fitting the wrong variant will result in severe ECU, wiring loom, and exhaust manifold incompatibilities.
- While they share the same core 90-degree V6 architecture, they differ in forced induction, displacement, and ECU calibration.
- Fitting the wrong variant will result in severe ECU, wiring loom, and exhaust manifold incompatibilities.
Compare Mercedes M276 Engine Prices Today
Get a free, no-obligation comparison for your exact Mercedes M276 engine code and sub-code. Our registration lookup confirms your precise fitment before any quotes are sent, ensuring you receive accurate pricing for your specific vehicle. With reconditioned M276 units starting from £3,800, comparing specialist quotes takes just two minutes and could save you hundreds on your replacement.
Vetted UK Specialists
Vetted UK specialists for M276 replacements
Minimum 12-Month Warranty
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Nationwide Delivery
Nationwide delivery plus supply and fit availability
Expert Support
Secure enquiry - no spam. Quotes only from vetted UK engine specialists.
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