Which Engine Oil?

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grumpyoldgit

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C270CDI Avantgarde SE
These 3 links should help. Each will open a new Tab/Window so you can switch between them if need be.

Determine engine type (First three digits of engine number which can be found on V5). to establish which approved spec number to use. Also refer to the 'Notes' at the bottom.

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1/. Engine Type / Prescribed Specifications for Service Fill Engine Oils (MB Sheet 223.2)

http://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/d/d/en/Spec_223_2.pdf

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2/. MB Approved Multigrade Engine Oils (Other Spec sheets can be selected by clicking on 'Select Sheet' (Top left)).

MB 229.5 - Multigrade engine oils (Specification 229.5) - Mercedes-Benz Specifications for Operating Fluids

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3/. Mercedes Oil Specifications

Mercedes Oil Specifications - oilspecifications.org
 
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While raw data such as presented above is extremely useful, there are are several other aspects that should be taken into account.

1. The age of the car---- cars more than 10-15 years old may have a recommended service schedule that is geared to the oil technology available at the time.

2. The normal usage of the car- frequent stop start / cold journeys will shorten the useful operating life of any oil be it mineral based or the latest synthetic [ altho obviously the synthetic will be better in this respect]

3. Cost-- over specifying an oil to somehow derive "more benefit" is false economy. Low saps/ ash oils such as MB229.31 and MB 229.51 are only of benefit to diesel engined cars with DPF's [ diesel particulate filters] for example.

For older models my rule of thumb is- use the grade of oil Mercedes recommended when the car was in production- if they thought it was adequate -- it was. Stick to Mercedes recommended service intervals for oil and filter changes taking into account the car's normal operating conditions.
If you want to pamper your pride and joy change the oil and filter at shorter service invervals rather than go for some esoteric extended service interval 21rst century oil that costs a fortune and spend the money you save on some other aspect of maintaining the car' s health. :dk:
 
Notes:
Information for older engine models not listed in the table can be found in the vehicle operator´s manuals, service information or maintenance instructions.
:thumb:
 
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Why is the popular in line 6 engine OM648 ......E320CDI missing from list 1 ??

Seems a strange omission but since many of the MERCEDES engines are from a modular series of engines --clues can usually be gained from examination of the recommendations for other engines in the "family" that share the same bore stroke ratio e.g. OM646 Google Translate

all based on the earlier OM 611
Google Translate
 
Well actually oil sludge is what forms when you don't change your oil often enough. Oil functions in several important ways. It obviously provides lubrication and protection against the frictional damage of two metal surfaces rubbing against each other. Oil also contains additives like detergents, anti-oxidents, Dispersants and anti-foaming agents, each of which performs an essential function to protect your engine.
 
OM642
except:
OM642 EU6 in BR 164.124/.824, BR 251.124, BR 221 (UK), BR 222 (UK)
OM642 in BR 463.306/.336/.346
OM642 Bin5 in BR 164.125/.825, BR 251.125 (only USA and Canada) OM642 EU4 in BR 221.122 (UK)


so I have a OM642 engine, but what are all the exceptions? where do I find the variant?

TIA
 
Hi all,
Can't really get it tbh.
Just tell me pls, need to change oil in my CLS 320cdi soon. Which one you recommend?

Thanks
Mike
 
lopez,

Only just seen your post. Do you have a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) in the exhaust system?

If you are unsure or don't know how to find out, you would probably do better to go to an Independent Mercedes specialist to get them to change the oil and filter. If your car does have a DPF and you put the wrong oil in it could block it and cause problems. Low Ash oil is needed if a DPF is fitted.
 
Just brought a 97/98 c250 turbo diesal saloon due a service soon just coming up to 150,000miles what oil do i use please i have read in the handbook 10w/40w will be buying oil from local motor factors
 
Just brought a 97/98 c250 turbo diesal saloon due a service soon just coming up to 150,000miles what oil do i use please i have read in the handbook 10w/40w will be buying oil from local motor factors

Engine type OM605 - Check against the first three digits of your engine number on the V5 registration document for confirmation.

Here is the Mobil recommendation, but other oil brands also have links for you to check. It's basically a matter of personal choice as long as the oil is marked MB-Approved. (Not meets MB Approval).

 
I wouldn't worry whether or not the oil is Mercedes-approved; that's just marketing by the oil company. Oil of the right grade from any reputable manufacturer will be just fine.
 

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