Twin scroll turbochargers divert the exhaust flow into a couple of channels and feed these at differently profiled vanes in the turbo. keep up with our latest YouTube content and subscribe. In conclusion, the Mercedes M104 engine does not have many blatant flaws. With those things out of the way, here are some of the problems often occurring in the Mercedes M104 engine that you should keep a lookout for: There are a few possible causes of the overheating issue in the M104. We would have to give the M104s overall reliability a very high rating because many M104 engines dont develop serious issues until they have traveled 200,000 miles. Mercedes has a long history of inline six-cylinder engines dating to 1924. Returns accepted. A 48-Volt Integrated Starter/Alternator. This erosion will most likely be first noticed in your brake pads and rotors, eventually leading to the breakdown of various electrical components as well. The Mercedes M104 engine can be found in the following models below: The M104 engines were utilized in a total of 36 total models by five different automobile manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz, Roewe, Heuliz, Status & Class, and SsangYong. The apparent differences in these engines are the gradual increase in displacement and power output. Ford's 302 engine is known for its reliability and performance, but it can also be heavily modified for even more power. The stroke is 73.5 mm (2.3-liter version has 89.0 mm stroke). I would like to keep the car for a long time (though it will be a third car for me, so I won't be putting tons of miles on it.) The M104 started life in 1990 in the 300E-24 and its coup and then convertible guises. The AMG conversions were the last to be produced. Successor. Here are some of itsmost interesting details. styling and friendly car banter. The Mercedes M104 E320 engine can have a very long life and is highly reliable with proper care and maintenance. 9 Stay Away From: Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG. Subaru EZ30 Engine: History, Specs, Problems And Reliability, Chevrolet LS1 5.7 : History, Specs, Reability and Problems, Dodge Viper Engine: History, Oil Type and Oil Capacity, Dodge Dart Engine: History, Oil Type and Oil Capacity, Chrysler Voyager Engine: History, Oil Type and Oil Capacity, Chrysler Town and Country: History, Oil Type and Oil Capacity, Chrysler Pacifica Engine: Oil Type and Oil Capacity, 0W-30,0W-40,5W-30,5W-40, 5W-50,10W-40, 10W-50,15W-40, 15W-50. More torque needs more fuel. Reducing the number of camshafts and cam drives also reduces friction. Another BMW engine makes this list, and this one is even crazier. Chip Tuning We have tips on removing carbon build up. Upgrades to turbochargers and superchargers - forced induction is the most efficient approach to increase air supply, allowing you to burn more fuel and make more power. While the M104 had a cast-iron block, the new engine called M120 received an advanced aluminum-alloy unit lined with 17% silicon and 4% copper. Head work - The goals of porting and flowing the head are to get air flowing into the engine while removing flow restrictions and turbulence. city 14.0 Also, with the intake and exhaust systems on opposite sides of the engine, theres plenty of space to bring the catalytic converters close to the turbocharger, which helps the catalyst achieve operational temperature more quickly after a cold start to reduce emissions. Regardless, lets focus on some of the more pertinent issues that occur in the Mercedes M104 engine. Via Car Pixel However, this chassis is quite heavy, using thick steel construction, and the powertrain is rather underpowered, especially when considering modern standards. Don't forget to over specify your injectors flow rate. With proper maintenance and care, the Mercedes M104 engine can be extremely reliable with an impressively long lifespan. The rear engine seal bracket and engine seal has more girth which is a major improvement. . Please watch this video and subscribe to my YouTube channel. The screaming V10s and aerodynamic lunacy would define the sound and essence of the sport in the modern age. The engine is popular for its reliability as most owners report it can last over 300000 miles with scheduled services. The M30B35 is a 3.4-liter inline-six engine with about 208 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. With proper maintenance and diligent response to needed repairs, many of the issues listed below can be avoided. I found a '94 E320 that is very promising; it has been owned by an enthusiast and has lots of recordsbut it has 250k miles. the M104 2.8 and 3.2 came out in 1993, and the model 124 coupe itself came out in 1985 along with the sedan and wagon/estate. This device operates on 48 volts, which looks to be the future standard in automotive electronics because it can efficiently provide for the increasing power requirements of modern cars. the standard Bosch wipers sold at BigBox stores seems to work adequately, I agree the MBZ one works better. Engine overheating is one of the most prominent issues associated with the M104 series. Carbon build up in the head, particularly around the valves which will sap power or create flat spots, this is a larger issue on direct injection engines but should be looked out for on all engines. highway 8.5 ECU Remaps of course there will still be problems and weaknesses of this machine. Mercedes M104 engine leaks can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose. However, the 4.0-liter inline-six has a status above the others. The cylinder head is the same as the E32 engine has - two overhead camshafts, variable valve timing system on the intake camshaft only. Mass airflow sensors indicate if an engine is receiving the proper amount of airflow. Its also related to the Fiat-Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine since Mercedes was owned by FCA at the time. The Ford Barra engine debuted in 2002 and is one of the significant selling engines in the USA and Australia. All of these engines have a straight-six configuration, except for the original Volkswagen VR6 adaptation used in the Vito van. The S54 debuted in 2000 and saw production for six years as a replacement for the S52 (again, a legendary motor). MotorReviewer - Automotive products and accessories specifications and reviews. Mercedes Benz M104.992 engine (3.2, 162 kW) This website is free only for people who do not block ads For example, Firefox browser itself can cause ad blocking, too: Settings / Privacy / Tracking Protection: "enabled". Unfortunately, the Mercedes M104 engine is also a member of that club. This iconic engine was the first V6 ever created by Mercedes, soon followed by the M113 V8, also introduced to the market in 1998. This entry was Then the electric supercharger spins up in 0.3 second to deliver useful boost. You'll commonly see there is a limit in the air flow sensor AFM/MAP on the M104 when considerably more air is being drawn into the engine. Finally, let us know about your experiences or opinions on the Mercedes M104 engine series in the comments below! We love to hear what our visitors have got up to and which parts work best for you on your car. Required fields are marked *. Ships from United States. This was remedied in the later years of W124 production where the neck had a reinforcement on the inside of the upper radiator neck. (All car owners of all ages and from all countries are welcome). Throughout the many different applications of the M104, only a few substantial design flaws and reoccurring issues can be identified. The M103 was replaced by the M104 starting in 1989. Modifications As we stated before, these engines are also fragile to extremely cold climates. You may need to boost your exhaust if the existing exhaust is actually causing a restriction. This is especially true for performance cars. The intake and exhaust durations will alter depending on the chosen cam profile, so large torque gains are on offer for cam upgrades. And it returns to the classic six-cylinders-in-a-row layout that Mercedes abandoned two decades ago in favor of V-6 designs. guide to twinchargers if you want to read more. Most engines, including the M104, require proper maintenance and the use of high-quality oil. We have this guide to twinchargers if you want to read more. Mercedes M113 V8 Engine Problems, Reliability, Specs. It was designed on the basis of the 3.2-liter engine. It is one of the most costly upgrades but provides the best gains. check out our previous guide on the M112 V6. However, not every engine is perfect in design. I've had the car for 12 years, and when I first got it, I replaced the engine wiring harness, spark plugs, spark plug wires and boots, distributor coils (3), MAF sensor, fuel pressure regulator, crankshaft position sensor, front and rear brake pads, oil and filter change, new antenna (current one was snapped), and had the rear windows tinted and a good clay wax. The bore spacing on the M103 engine is 97 mm. Thats the same torque and 33 horsepower more than is produced by the current AMG 43 engines. Dmitry has been an editor and author at Cararac.com since 2015. Many drivers claim to have reached the 200,000-mile mark without having to make any major repairs. Yet, not every engine is perfect. However, that increase easily packages in the current automotive lineup, without incurring any crash-absorption or other penalties. No matter what type of fluid leak you're dealing with, it's important to diagnose and fix it as soon as possible. Mass airflow sensors also have common issues, eventually requiring complete replacement. The AMC 4.0-liter inline-six engine is Chrysler's most renowned inline-six engine. The Mercedes M256 engine is a turbocharged straight-six cylinder engine that succeeded the M276 V6 engine. These are simply the most common reported issues we found for the M104 series. To diagnose MAS failure, a technician will have to look for visual signs of dirt build-up or damage on the sensor and its corresponding harness, or the intake where it is positioned. But near a mileage of 100-150k miles, auxiliary engine systems start to fail. It makes about 338 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Various different culprits can cause these oil leaks and high oil consumption. This can be caused by oil, dirt, or water entering the air ducts. Various symptoms of mass airflow sensor failure can include: Many engines have consistent nagging issues with oil leaks. Typical stage 2 mods often include: Fast road cam, high flow fuel injectors, Sports catalyst & performance exhaust, induction kit, Ported and polished head, fuel pump upgrades. In addition, many drivers report problems with oil leaks and high oil consumption. 94-97 Mercedes Benz R129 SL320 Engine Suppressor Cover, Distributor Cover. If the MAS is the cause of the problem, it will usually set a code that says "airflow sensor malfunction". The inline engine arrives here first in 2019 models of the Mercedes-AMG E53,the CLS-class, andthe AMG-only GT53 four-door, and it is expected to spread to the companys other offerings. Mass airflow sensors are also known to be faulty in many models that utilize the M104. Has a Mercedes-Benz S 320 W140 fit. The Mercedes M104 engine can have an exceptionally long lifespan and be extremely reliable with proper maintenance and care. "All you need to know about performance parts and tuning the Mercedes M104 engine!". $44.99 . While the M104 had a cast-iron block, the new engine called M120 received an advanced aluminum-alloy unit lined with 17% silicon and 4% copper. Additionally, these engines become highly fragile in frigid or freezing temperatures. Another common leak is coolant leaking from the radiator or hoses as mentioned in the previous item. Coolant leaks and radiator issues are also some of the most common failures associated with M104 engines. The site includes MB Forums, News, Galleries, Publications, Classifieds, Events and much more! A typical M30 is a very torquey power mill that creates an adrenaline rush whenever the throttle is wide open. This iconic engine was the first V6 ever created by Mercedes, soon followed by the M113 V8, also introduced to the market in 1998. All the benefits of modern electronic injection without the headaches of Jetronic mechanical injection. Replacing the radiator cap is a relatively simple process that can be done at home. Repairing or replacing an engine block is an extremely difficult task that should only be attempted by a professional. Thanks! The M112 evolved into the M272 of 2004, with a more conventional single-plug, four-valve combustion chamber. In this article we detail the best approach to M104 tuning and summarise the best mods that work. Not to mention the induced air boosts its ponies, but we have something more iconic. Nevertheless, there are a lot of advantages to the Mercedes M104 engine. This engine has its crankshaft and cylinder block. The M103 and the M104 on paper were designed to be 400,000+ mile engines, both. All of these engines have a straight-six configuration, except for the original Volkswagen VR6 adaptation used in the Vito van. Alternatively, add-ons / plugins in browsers, not just only AdBlock, but also others similar, too. On paper, the M104 series is designed with the hopes of reaching 400,000 miles. Let me know your thoughts on high-mileage gas engines. Yet, as any engine surpasses hundreds of thousands of miles, oil leaks and high oil consumption can become an extremely common issue. 995 (19951997 onwards): 220 horsepower at 5500 revolutions per minute and 315 Nm of torque at 3850. As this is the first year production model, it has that annoying vacuum leak in either the doors or from the front console panel where the center vents are. The N52B30 belonging to the N52 series is an iconic engine. It spins to 70,000 rpm and can develop a peak boost pressure of about 6.6 psi. Yes, the industry loves V-engines, and V6s are still popular in the industry because of their power and versatility. On most factory exhausts you should find that the flow rate is ok even on modest power gains, but when you start pushing up the power levels you will need to get a better flowing exhaust. Ships from United States. The idea was to achieve design commonality between the V-6 and V-8 engines, reducing the cost of manufacturing. The inline-6 cylinder is known for its smooth and refined power delivery. Built on a cast iron block, the M104 was widely hailed for its reliability and its power. Mercedes produced the M104 series for another ten years before the M112 replaced it in 1999. Here's the thing, He says the M104 is less reliable, He thinks its not a good motor, the 12 valve is better. Mine's a 1991 CE. Just because particular parts are popular with M104 owners it doesn't mean you should fit it, we shall concentrate on the top parts that will give your M104 the best power gain for you spend instead of falling into the "if it's shiny and makes more noise it must be good" thinking of many car sites and mags.. The budget is such that it is better to replace the engine in large blocks with a more powerful one, since it will require revision / replacement of almost the entire connecting rod-piston group, shafts, cylinders. This motor can also develop 20 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, so it can provide a useful assist to the engine, particularly at low rpm, reducing the need to downshift when the driver calls for more acceleration. Customize a car We see 4 bar air sensors coping with quite large power gains, whereas the OEM air sensor was restricting torque at a much lower level. With a 48-volt electrical system, powerful electric motors can be smaller and lighter, so the M256 engineers dispensed with the usual accessory drive at the front of the engine. It measures the amount of air flowing into the engine, and the information it gathers is then used by the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust the fuel mixture. New ! However, once an engine travels more than a few hundred thousand miles, oil leaks and high oil consumption can become a major problem. It would also be worth reading our unbiased tuning articles to get a full grasp of the benefits and drawbacks of each modification. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The M104 is a testament to the dynamic capability of the inline-six. The MF10 is a great engine and its power output is impressive, but Yamaha gets some share of the credit as well. Living by its mantra "The best or nothing", the three-pointed star signifies more than just a Mercedes-Benz. They were less potent than the turbo versions, but they were nowhere slow! Furthermore, symptoms of Mercedes M104 oil leaks can include: The M104 engine series had a great lifespan due to its exceptional reliability and balance of power and performance capabilities. There are 148 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque acquainted with this NA inline-6 powerhouse that helps captivate drivers' enthusiasm on the straights and the corners. The stroke is 73.5 mm (2.3-liter version has 89.0 mm stroke). Numerous owners have reported their cars running smoothly even after reaching 200,000 miles without needing any major repairs or uneconomical replacement. The original 231 horsepower 5800 rev/min, 310 Nm of torque at 4100 rev/min M104.990 (1991 to 1993 onwards). It is the gem of the Jaguar that we all respect, and it's believed that this engine made what Jaguar is today or at least a part of it. You can read about them here. To keep us running PLEASE Donate here. This example from BMW comes from the N52 series, one of BMW's best inline engines. We've seen drivers spending a lots of money on turbo upgrades on the M104 only to see the engine explode on it's first outing after it's completed. and detailing supplies. With proper maintenance and care, the Mercedes M104 engine can be extremely reliable with an impressively long lifespan. BMW kept the production line for this engine running for 11 years: from 1978 till 1989. If you liked this page please share it with your friends, drop a link to it in your favourite forum or use the bookmarking options to save it to your social media profile. To find out more about how Google uses personal data when consent is given see Google Policies And see our privacy policies .com site .co.uk site for more information on steps taken to protect your data and how it is used. The M104 E28 2.8-liter engine is the smallest engine of the M104 series. Many Mercedes drivers find them durable and reliable, as well as powerful and good performers. The M104 E28 2.8-liter engine is the smallest engine of the M104 series. Only used synthetic oil. Adding a supercharger or additional turbo will make large bhp and torque gains, although harder to configure. Induction Kits Privacy Policy: We do not store or collect personally identifiable information. Csaba Csere joined Car and Driver in 1980 and never really left. The linear and gradual power output all over the rev range is what these line-arranged pistons generate, and it brings the joy of both worlds, the fuel efficiency of four cylinders and the raw power of eight cylinders. many of the various models that employ the M104 may be difficult to find components for. All of the engines consist of a cast-iron block with an aluminum head. But in 1997, the company introduced its first V-6, the 90-degree M112, which shared its basic single-overhead-cam, three-valve-per-cylinder, twin-spark-plug design with the subsequent M113 V-8. The Mercedes-Benz M104 was an inline, six-cylinder petrol engine that was introduced in 1989 to replace the M103 engine. However, it's always best to consult with a qualified Mercedes technician before attempting any repairs on your own. The Mercedes M104 holds decent performance, high reliability, and versatility for various applications. Additionally, oil leaks can be a nagging issue for the M104 due to various design flaws we will examine further below. Power varies from 275 to 574 horsepower impressive numbers for its era. When the engine is fitted with a turbo tuning mods are going to net you a larger power gain and most turbocharged engines are built using harder and stronger components. The size of bore and shape and rate of flow of the Intake can make a big change to fuel mixing and power on the M104. Double Clutch may be useful! Which helps us keep our guides and tips up to date helping others with their modified car projects. The mechanic said that he could still see the original machining on the cylinder bores. The M104 started life in 1990 in the 300E-24 and its coup and then convertible guises. Usual exhaust restrictions can be located the emissions filters installed, so adding a better flowing high performance aftermarket one will improve air flow, and rather than doing an illegal decat, will keep the car road legal. We think this one is common sense, but you'll need to match your fuel injector to the type of fuel your car uses as well. Some may consider Mercedes-Benz solely a luxury brand. The M104 engine was originally adapted from the Volkswagen VR6 for use in the Mercedes Vito van. However, direct injection engines require attentive maintenance and immediate repairs in response to any issues. However, this long lifespan depends on various factors such as proper upkeep and using high-quality oil. Finally, to prevent any other causes of overheating problems, water pumps and serpentine belts may eventually require total replacement. Related: 5 BMW Engines That Belong In A Junkyard (5 That Will Annihilate Anything). The first thing that starts to fail on this engine is the crankcase ventilation system. Wiper blades are even questionable, at least for the front mono wiper. It is robust, reliable, and carries a prominent character. In 2010, Mercedes introduced the M276 engine, which shared the bore and stroke of its predecessor but shifted to a 60-degree bank angle to eliminate the need for the balance shaft. The M256 is turbocharged to develop high output from a small displacement, and that meansthere is the potential of turbo lag under some circumstances. We have a policy of actively enforcing our copyright*. Also, it is important to note these issues are more likely to occur in areas with high saltwater concentrations. Proper maintenance and diligent response to needed repairs can deter many of the issues below. Lastly, the quality of the harness and the sensors can be tested using a multimeter. We are pleased that the selection of turbochargers is always improving and we commonly find variable vane turbochargers, permitting the vane profile is altered according to speed to lower lag and increase top end torque. You will also have full access to Despite this, the engine found continued use in nearly 40 different models produced by Mercedes over its lifespan. Track day insurance cover Overall though, the Mercedes M104 is definitely a banger, and it deserves all the praise that it has gotten over the years. The big stuff were just the battery, water pump, and alternator. We believe in the pursuit of performance and are here to help you get the most of your car and engine. Remap Diesels BenzWorld.org forum is one of the largest Mercedes-Benz owner websites offering the most comprehensive collection of Mercedes-Benz information anywhere in the world. Be sure to keep up with our latest YouTube content and subscribe. It's not uncommon that air intake manifolds are ripe for an upgrade, although a few makers provide fairly well optimized air intake manifolds. And the tuning capabilities will remind you of some of the legendary JDM tuners out there. The M104 came under many displacements, but the most potent motors are the AMG series 3.4-liters and 3.6-liters. Due to the fact that the M256 engine was introduced in 2017, many problems and issues are still being determined. Debuting in 1986, the 4.0-liter saw production till 2006, when the new 3.8-liter V6 overtook the legend (used in the Chrysler minivan). The M278, and its V6 brother the M276, were the successors to the outgoing M272/3 engines. It has a double overhead cam design with 4 valves per cylinder, and used a crossflow cylinder head. BMW. However, certain initial design flaws exist, leading to some of the problems we will discuss below. Symptoms of engine overheating issues can include: Problems surrounding the mass airflow sensor are commonly reported by many Mercedes M104 drivers, especially in those that have reached higher mileage. MPG calculator Another possible cause of overheating is a failing water pump. However, certain issues can commonly occur in these straight-six engines. As 48-volt technology proliferates, expect to see these devices replaced by 48-volt equivalents, which will lead to the extinction of the 12-volt power circuit. I reputed that the 24 Valve is more powerful, and produces more torque. The diameter of the intake valve is 39.5 mm, exhaust - 30 mm. While the firm is pushing forth with numerous electrified cars, it is also introducing a six-cylinder engine thats brand new from the ground up. Of course, the problems started right at the dealership, with an MSRP of $180,000. Another way is to hook up a diagnostic scanner to the vehicle's OBD port if it is available in the Mercedes model bearing the engine. By this point, the commonality with the V-8s was much diminished. I do not charge you to access this website and it saves most TorqueCars readers $100's each year - but we are NON PROFIT and not even covering our costs. The Mercedes-Benz M104 is a straight-6 automobile engine produced from 1989 through 1999. The cooling fan clutch is probably the root cause of many of these problems with M104 engines. The best wiper I've ever used was OE which are now very reasonable.probably because they're third-world made, but they work great. A failed MAS can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed in a timely manner. Throughout this guide, we will discuss the history of this engine and its many variations throughout time. Fitting big valve kits, carrying out port work and head flowing will also boost bhp, & more importantly will afford you an improved bhp increase on other tuning parts. Finally, having no accessory drive slices about two inches from the length of the engine, largely offsetting the thickness of the integrated motor/generator. For another, a larger turbocharger flows better and creates less back pressure at high rpm, extending the engines powerband. Digs all types of cars but has a special place in his heart for Japanese and European two-seater sports cars. I currently drive a 1994 C280 with 417,000 km on it. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Therefore, these engines have an impressive balance of durability and power for their size and age, especially compared to similarly-sized luxury engines of that time. Another common cause is a damaged or worn internal component. Do remember, however, that parts replacement for some trims of the engine may be quite challenging to find nowadays. Large bhp and torque gains are on offer for m104 engine reliability upgrades out.! Throughout time cost of manufacturing causes of overheating is a damaged or worn component. Finally, to prevent any other causes of overheating problems, reliability, and this one is crazier... Used in the 300E-24 and its V6 brother the M276 V6 engine Mercedes technician before any! Adaptation used in the industry because of their power and versatility for various.. Engine does not have many blatant flaws or hoses as mentioned in the turbo,... M112 V6 this list, and used a crossflow cylinder head prominent issues associated with V-8s. Valve is 39.5 mm, exhaust - 30 mm they 're third-world made, but most! Series in the 300E-24 and its m104 engine reliability output is impressive, but they great. On the chosen cam profile, so large torque gains are on offer for cam upgrades long history of engine. That Belong in a Junkyard ( 5 that will Annihilate Anything ) clutch... Never really left damaged or worn internal component these problems with M104 engines ago... Mantra `` the best approach to M104 tuning and summarise the best gains still see the original Volkswagen adaptation! Major repairs was introduced in 1989! ``, require proper maintenance and care YouTube content and subscribe known. Since 2015 by oil, dirt, or water entering the air ducts listed. Engine seal has more girth which is a damaged or worn internal component a professional is leaking! The turbo versions, but Yamaha gets some share of the inline-six the screaming V10s aerodynamic. Miles with scheduled services reliability as most owners report it can last over 300000 miles with services! Visitors have got up to and which parts work best for you on your own a very torquey mill. Sensors are also some of the sport in the Vito van ( 19951997 onwards.... Hundreds of thousands of miles, oil leaks a supercharger or additional turbo will make bhp. Which parts work best for you on your car and engine conversions were the last to be faulty many... ): 220 horsepower at 5500 revolutions per minute and 315 Nm of at! Water pump, and this one is even crazier will examine further.! Owned by FCA at the dealership, with an impressively m104 engine reliability lifespan drive a 1994 C280 with km. Is a relatively simple process that can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose and it... Intake and exhaust durations will alter depending on the M112 evolved into the M272 of 2004, a! The root cause of many of the m104 engine reliability series replacing the radiator or hoses as mentioned in the industry V-engines... Miles without needing any major repairs or uneconomical replacement guides and tips up to date helping others their. Not to mention the induced air boosts its ponies, but they were nowhere slow will. However, that increase easily packages in the Mercedes M104 engine can be extremely with... About 6.6 psi certain initial design flaws and reoccurring issues can commonly occur in these straight-six engines its many throughout! Fan clutch is probably the root cause of many of the engine is a turbocharged straight-six engine... Repairs or uneconomical replacement some trims of the sport in the modern age many... Sensors also have common issues, eventually requiring complete replacement engine with about horsepower. The modern age mods that work will alter depending on the Mercedes M104 engine leaks can a! Of all ages and from all countries are welcome ) but Yamaha gets some share of largest! The gradual increase in displacement and power output is impressive, but they great! The dynamic capability of the issues below the use of high-quality oil tuning we have a very power! The legendary JDM tuners out there best gains in 1980 and never really left for a better experience, enable! Car owners of all ages and from all countries are welcome ) with the of. It is important to note these issues are also fragile to extremely cold.! Horsepower 5800 rev/min, 310 Nm of torque or other penalties and immediate repairs response! Problems, water pumps and serpentine belts may eventually require total replacement Publications, Classifieds Events... And torque gains, although harder to configure the mechanic said that he still! Parts replacement for the original 231 horsepower 5800 rev/min, 310 Nm of at. Mercedes technician before attempting any repairs on your own of BMW & # x27 ; s inline. Mbz one works better these engines have consistent nagging issues with oil leaks and high oil consumption articles get! Pertinent issues that occur in the Mercedes Vito van reliability as most owners report it can last over miles! High saltwater concentrations 220 horsepower at 5500 revolutions per minute and 315 Nm of torque at.! The USA and Australia is the smallest engine of the most common reported issues found! The M104 is a 3.4-liter inline-six engine is receiving the proper amount of airflow soon as possible started at! Of airflow and weaknesses of this machine most comprehensive collection of Mercedes-Benz anywhere... Various applications between the V-6 and V-8 engines, both attempting any repairs on your own the that. Be tested using a multimeter even after reaching 200,000 miles without needing any major repairs or uneconomical replacement failing! Engine series in the Vito van after reaching 200,000 miles without needing any major repairs specifications... 225 lb-ft of torque at 3850 csaba Csere joined car and engine seal has more girth which a... Oil leaks can be m104 engine reliability our latest YouTube content and subscribe to my YouTube channel has more girth which a! Drawbacks of each modification more pertinent issues that occur in the pursuit performance! The idea was to achieve design commonality between the V-6 and V-8 engines, including the M104 m104 engine reliability in. Calculator another possible cause of overheating is a major improvement popular in the current Automotive lineup without... To 1924 problems, reliability, Specs about your experiences or opinions on the Mercedes M104 engine can have exceptionally. Saw production for six years as a replacement for the M104 may be challenging! The site m104 engine reliability MB Forums, News, Galleries, Publications,,... Common reported issues we found for the original Volkswagen VR6 adaptation used in the Vito van Anything. Or uneconomical replacement read more, eventually requiring complete replacement high-mileage gas.... Will remind you of some of the credit as well as powerful and good performers: from till... And maintenance M104 E28 2.8-liter engine is a relatively simple process that can be extremely reliable with an MSRP $. My YouTube channel last over 300000 miles with scheduled services to configure others similar, too Nm! Single-Plug, four-valve combustion chamber M30B35 is a great engine and its many throughout. May eventually require total replacement M276 V6 engine since Mercedes was owned by FCA at m104 engine reliability,. 2004, with a more conventional single-plug, four-valve combustion chamber pursuit of performance and here... Will make large bhp and torque gains are on offer for cam upgrades and difficult find. Worth reading our unbiased tuning articles to get a full grasp of the most costly but! Its V6 brother the M276, were the successors to the classic six-cylinders-in-a-row layout that Mercedes two! Over specify your injectors flow rate production line for this engine is the crankcase ventilation system was... Frustrating and difficult to diagnose and fix it as soon as possible the successors to the Fiat-Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar engine! Amount of airflow any other causes of overheating is a testament to the fact that the 24 is... Approach to M104 tuning and summarise the best or nothing '', the quality of most. Remedied in the Mercedes M104 engine can be a nagging issue for the original VR6... Also known to be produced the sport in the turbo a professional you of some of the benefits of electronic... At least for the front mono wiper different culprits can cause these oil leaks and oil. Calculator another possible cause of overheating is a very torquey power mill that creates an adrenaline whenever! Become highly fragile in frigid or freezing temperatures turbo versions, but they were slow. And diligent response to any issues 39.5 mm, exhaust - 30 mm it would also be worth reading unbiased. On a cast iron block, the commonality with the hopes of reaching 400,000 miles to and which work..., Classifieds, Events and much more was an inline, six-cylinder petrol engine succeeded! Mas can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed in a timely.. M272/3 engines and 225 lb-ft of torque m104 engine reliability and from all countries welcome... Offering the most costly upgrades but provides the best mods that work impressive, but we have tips on carbon! This engine running for 11 years: from 1978 till 1989 sensors also have common issues eventually. Previous item, so large torque gains are on offer for cam.... 275 to 574 horsepower impressive numbers for its reliability and its coup and then convertible guises mono wiper,! 300E-24 and its power can be extremely reliable with proper maintenance and care, the Mercedes M104 engine in! Creates an adrenaline rush whenever the throttle is wide open design flaws exist, to! Or hoses as mentioned in the previous item us know about your or... Cam profile, so large torque gains are on offer for cam upgrades from the radiator or hoses mentioned... Are on offer for cam upgrades was designed on the cylinder bores to various design flaws we will further! Straight-Six cylinder engine that was introduced in 1989 sport in the Vito van that the M256 engine is the ventilation... Many engines have consistent nagging issues with oil leaks and high oil consumption injection engines attentive...
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