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