M166 vs OM648

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
OM648 BEST 90/100
+35 points over M166
0 / 100
CAUTION M166 Mercedes-Benz
0 / 100
BEST OM648 Mercedes-Benz

Specifications

M166
OM648
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
CAUTION
BEST
Reliability
55
90
Years
1997--2004
2002--2006
Displacement
1598 cc
3222 cc
Layout
I4
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Diesel
Power
82--102 hp
204 hp
Known Issues
1
2
Total Risk Cost
€500--€1,200
€450--€1,100

Character

M166

"W168 A-Class. Infamous moose test rollover era. Engine itself is adequate but head gasket failures common. Oil leaks. Not a strong Mercedes engine. Better to look at M271 successor."

OM648

"Modern OM606 successor. Excellent highway cruiser. Strong torque."

Issues Comparison

M166 1

▲ HIGH
Head gasket failure €500--€1,200 60,000 km--120,000 km

OM648 2

● MODERATE
EGR valve fouling (city use) €300--€700 80,000 km--160,000 km
○ MINOR
Glow plugs + injector seals €150--€400 80,000 km--160,000 km

Models

M166 3

A-Class W168 1997--2004 A-Class W168 1997--2004 A-Class W169 2004--2009

OM648 6

E-Class W210 1999--2002 C-Class W203 2001--2005 E-Class W210 1999--2002 S-Class W220 1999--2002 S-Class W220 2002--2005 E 320 CDI W211 2002--2009 Sedan
Full M166 Report Full OM648 Report