AVOID Complexity

M273

Mercedes-Benz · V8 NA 4.7-5.5L

2005–2012

0 / 100
AVOID

"Same sprocket problem as M272. Powerful but risky early models."

Layout V8
Displacement 5461 cc
Power 340–388 hp
Type Petrol Na
Known Issues 2
Total Risk Cost €2,200–€5,400

Mileage Risk Timeline

When problems typically appear — enter your mileage to see your risk zone

km

Known Issues 2

◆ CRITICAL

Idler gear sprocket wear — same class-action as M272

€1,800–€4,500 60,000 km–150,000 km
View details
Detection

Rattling, oil pressure drop, timing events, catastrophic failure risk

Details

Same sprocket problem as M272 but V8. Even more expensive to fix due to complexity.

Greece Note

Same VIN check needed. Pre-Oct 2006 V8 S-Class: budget €1,800-4,500. Very expensive engine bay on W220.

○ MINOR

Spark plugs + ignition coils (8 of each)

€400–€900 80,000 km–150,000 km
View details
Detection

Misfires per cylinder, rough idle, check engine light

Details

V8 means 8 plugs and 8 coils. Replace as set. More expensive than V6 due to parts count.

Greece Note

Budget €400-900 full set. Greek Mercedes specialists familiar with W220/W221.

Models with M273 1

Other Mercedes-Benz Engines

Tuning Potential

N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mercedes-Benz M273 reliable?

The Mercedes-Benz M273 scores 45/100 with a verdict of AVOID. It has 2 documented issues with total repair costs between €2,200 and €5,400.

What are the common problems with the M273?

The most common issues are:

  • Idler gear sprocket wear — same class-action as M272 — critical, repair cost €1,800–€4,500, 60,000 km–150,000 km
  • Spark plugs + ignition coils (8 of each) — minor, repair cost €400–€900, 80,000 km–150,000 km
What cars use the Mercedes-Benz M273?

The M273 is found in:

How much does it cost to repair the M273?

Total potential repair costs for all 2 known issues range from €2,200 to €5,400. The most expensive issue is typically .

What years was the M273 produced?

The Mercedes-Benz M273 was produced from 2005 to 2012. It is a 5461cc V8 petrol na engine.

Verdict and scores are editorial opinions based on aggregated data. Learn about our methodology. Not a substitute for professional inspection.