E240 / E280 / E350 V6 (M272)
2005–2009 · petrol · 3498cc · 272hp
Engine codes: M272
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 E240 / E280 / E350 V6 (M272). Check this before you buy used.
The V6 petrol — smooth, but the well-known trap is the balance-shaft gear made of too-soft metal: it wears and throws the timing. Affects engines sold 2004–2008 with serial numbers below 2729..30 468993, costing $4,000+ to fix. A car outside the affected serial range (or already repaired) is fine; an affected unfixed one is a major risk.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (M272) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
Soft-metal balance-shaft gear wears, throwing timing (P0016 etc.). Affects 2004–2008 serials below 2729..30 468993. Engine-out repair, $4,000+.
Fix / Workaround: Check engine serial vs the affected range; verify whether fixed. Avoid affected, unfixed cars.
Repair cost: €2500–€4500
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Problematic intake manifold, oil leaks and short-lived timing components on the M272 family.
Fix / Workaround: Address as they arise.
Repair cost: €200–€900
Year Cutoffs
Mileage Thresholds
After 100,000 km: Balance-shaft wear surfaces on affected serials.
Fault Codes to Scan
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Check engine serial vs affected range
- ☐Scan for P0016
- ☐Prefer later serials / documented-fixed cars
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 E240 / E280 / E350 V6 (M272) reliable?
History-Dependent — The V6 petrol — smooth, but the well-known trap is the balance-shaft gear made of too-soft metal: it wears and throws the timing. Affects engines sold 2004–2008 with serial numbers below 2729..30 468993, costing $4,000+ to fix. A car outside the affected serial range (or already repaired) is fine; an affected unfixed one is a major risk.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 E240 / E280 / E350 V6 (M272)?
The most commonly reported problems: Balance shaft gear wear (affected serials), Intake manifold / oil leaks.
Is a used Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 E240 / E280 / E350 V6 (M272) worth buying?
The engine itself is OK; condition is everything. Unknown or patchy history = walk away.