M113 vs OM606
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
OM606
BEST
96/100
+7 points over M113
0
/ 100
BEST
M113
Mercedes-Benz
0
/ 100
BEST
OM606
Mercedes-Benz
Specifications
M113
OM606
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
BEST
BEST
Reliability
89
96
Years
1997--2010
1993--2001
Displacement
4966 cc
2996 cc
Layout
V8
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Diesel
Power
272--367 hp
134--174 hp
Known Issues
7
2
Total Risk Cost
€1,280--€3,625
€280--€700
Character
M113
"The V8 workshops call indestructible. Valve-cover gaskets weep and the crank sensor dies when hot; otherwise 250,000 miles is routine. Supercharged E55 ML (476-500 PS) is a different animal and not covered here."
OM606
"Legendary. 500k+ miles documented. Tunable to 500hp. One of most reliable engines ever."
Issues Comparison
M113 7
▲ HIGH
Harmonic balancer (crank pulley) rubber delaminates
● MODERATE
Oil leaks — valve-cover gaskets, front crank seal (V6), rear main seal (V8)
● MODERATE
Air suspension / Airmatic failure (S/ML models)
○ MINOR
Oil sludge from conventional oil on long FSS intervals (MY1998-2001)
○ MINOR
Crankshaft position sensor fails when hot — stall or hot no-start
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils (V6/V8)
○ MINOR
Coolant system: water pump, thermostat, expansion tank
OM606 2
○ MINOR
Glow plug failure (only meaningful issue)
○ MINOR
Injection pump seal wear (age-related)