M272 vs OM606

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
OM606 BEST 96/100
+46 points over M272
0 / 100
CAUTION M272 Mercedes-Benz
0 / 100
BEST OM606 Mercedes-Benz

Specifications

M272
OM606
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
CAUTION
BEST
Reliability
50
96
Years
2004--2012
1993--2001
Displacement
3498 cc
2996 cc
Layout
V6
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Diesel
Power
231--292 hp
134--174 hp
Known Issues
3
2
Total Risk Cost
€2,150--€5,500
€280--€700

Character

M272

"Smooth V6. Early models: balance shaft defect (class-action). Post-2008: better."

OM606

"Legendary. 500k+ miles documented. Tunable to 500hp. One of most reliable engines ever."

Issues Comparison

M272 3

◆ CRITICAL
Balance shaft sprocket wear — class-action €1,500--€4,000 60,000 km--150,000 km
● MODERATE
Intake manifold swirl flaps failure €400--€900 80,000 km--150,000 km
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils €250--€600 80,000 km--150,000 km

OM606 2

○ MINOR
Glow plug failure (only meaningful issue) €80--€200 80,000 km--∞
○ MINOR
Injection pump seal wear (age-related) €200--€500 200,000 km--∞

Models

M272 13

C-Class W203 2005--2007 E-Class W211 2005--2009 SLK R171 2005--2008 CLK W209 2005--2009 CLK W209 2005--2009 C-Class W204 2007--2011 S-Class W221 2005--2013 E-Class W211 2005--2009 SLK R171 2004--2011 SL R230 2006--2011 CLK 350 C209 2005--2009 Coupe E 350 W212 2009--2016 Sedan ML 350 W164 2005--2011 SUV

OM606 2

300D W124 1993--1997 Sedan E 300D W210 1995--2003 Sedan
Full M272 Report Full OM606 Report