Higher reliability score
M104 BEST 85/100
+3 points over OM642
0 / 100
BUY OM642 Mercedes-Benz
0 / 100
BEST M104 Mercedes-Benz

Specifications

OM642
M104
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
BUY
BEST
Reliability
82
85
Years
2005--2020
1990--1997
Displacement
2987 cc
3199 cc
Layout
V6
I6
Type
Diesel
Petrol Na
Power
190--265 hp
193--231 hp
Known Issues
3
1
Total Risk Cost
€1,500--€4,400
€500--€2,000

Character

OM642

"Legendary V6 diesel. 250k+ km. Fix swirl flaps and enjoy."

M104

"W124/R129/W140 inline-6. One of Mercedes' most reliable engines. Bulletproof bottom end. Wiring harness biodegrades (uses soy-based insulation). Head gasket solid. 400k+ km possible."

Issues Comparison

OM642 3

▲ HIGH
Valley oil cooler seal failure — #1 issue €800--€2,000 80,000 km--150,000 km
● MODERATE
Intake swirl flap actuator failure €400--€900 60,000 km--130,000 km
● MODERATE
BlueTEC NOx system / DEF issues (where fitted) €300--€1,500 60,000 km--∞

M104 1

▲ HIGH
Wiring harness biodegradation €500--€2,000 100,000 km--200,000 km

Models

Full OM642 Report Full M104 Report