M274
Mercedes-Benz · 2.0L Turbo I4
2012–2019
"Improved over M271. Dual-row chain. Thermostat main issue. Reliable with care."
Mileage Risk Timeline
When problems typically appear — enter your mileage to see your risk zone
Known Issues 3
Oil consumption — piston ring design (early units)
▸Burning oil smell, blue smoke, oil level drops noticeably
Some early M274 units had piston ring / oil scraper ring issues. Lawsuit coverage in some markets (The Lemon Firm).
Check oil consumption on any M274 purchase. Test drive, check dipstick before and after. If consuming: €1,500-4,000 for ring replacement.
Thermostat failure
▸Engine running cool or overheating, poor cabin heat, coolant light
Most common M274 issue. Thermostat housing (plastic/wax type) fails. Very well documented.
Most common M274 repair at Greek Mercedes workshops. Budget €250-500. Replace proactively at 80k km.
Camshaft adjuster / actuator noise
▸Ticking on cold start, check engine light (camshaft position codes)
Camshaft actuators can tick especially on cold start with old oil. Oil quality and interval critical.
Keep oil fresh at 7-8k km with MB-approved spec. Actuator replacement €400-900.
Models with M274 12
Related Guides
Other Mercedes-Benz Engines
Tuning Potential
250hp Stage 1
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mercedes-Benz M274 reliable?
The Mercedes-Benz M274 scores 72/100 with a verdict of ACCEPTABLE. It has 3 documented issues with total repair costs between €2,150 and €5,400.
What are the common problems with the M274?
The most common issues are:
- Oil consumption — piston ring design (early units) — high, repair cost €1,500–€4,000, 60,000 km–120,000 km
- Thermostat failure — moderate, repair cost €250–€500, 60,000 km–130,000 km
- Camshaft adjuster / actuator noise — moderate, repair cost €400–€900, 80,000 km–160,000 km
What cars use the Mercedes-Benz M274?
How much does it cost to repair the M274?
Total potential repair costs for all 3 known issues range from €2,150 to €5,400. The most expensive issue is typically .
What years was the M274 produced?
The Mercedes-Benz M274 was produced from 2012 to 2019. It is a 1991cc I4 petrol turbo engine.
Scores are calculated from documented issues, repair costs, and failure patterns across thousands of owner reports and technical sources. Learn about our methodology. Always inspect before you buy.