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Mercedes OM654 Engine (2016–Present)
The Mercedes-Benz OM654 is the brand’s fourth-generation 2.0L inline-4 diesel engine, introduced in 2016 to replace the OM651.
It combines an aluminum block and head, Nanoslide-coated cylinders, variable-geometry turbocharging, and integrated DPF/SCR aftertreatment to meet strict Euro 6d emission standards.
Delivering up to 265 hp and 550 Nm, the OM654 is lighter (-17% vs OM651), more efficient, and quieter making it one of the most advanced four-cylinder diesels in Mercedes history.
But while praised for efficiency and refinement, owners have reported some injector, timing chain, and EGR/DPF issues over time. This guide covers specs, innovations, problems, maintenance tips, and models that use the OM654.
For a full overview of all Mercedes powerplants, visit our Mercedes Engine Types Hub.
OM654 Engine Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Configuration | Inline-4, turbocharged |
| Displacement | 1,950–1,992 cc |
| Bore × Stroke | 82 × 92.3 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Block / Head | All-aluminum, Nanoslide cylinder coating |
| Power Output | 90–265 hp (varies by variant) |
| Torque | Up to 550 Nm |
| Turbo | Single VGT, water-cooled |
| Fuel Injection | 4th-gen common rail, 2050 bar piezo |
| Emissions | Euro 6d with integrated DPF & SCR |
| Dry Weight | ~168 kg |
OM 654 Variants & Applications
| Variant | Output | Typical Models |
|---|---|---|
| OM654 DE16 G SCR | 90–118 kW / 300–360 Nm | C180d, C200d, A-Class diesel |
| OM654 DE20 G SCR | 110–143 kW / 360–400 Nm | C220d, C 300d, E220d, GLC 200‑220d, W167, C257 |
| OM654 M DE20 G SCR (MHEV) | Up to 200 kW / 550 Nm | C/E 300d hybrids with 48V starter-generator |
| High-output OM654 | ~265 hp | S-Class W223, performance variants |
Technologies and Innovations
- – Nanoslide cylinder coating → reduces friction, improves wear resistance.
- – Single-stage variable geometry turbo (VGT) → better torque delivery across RPMs.
- – Close-coupled DPF + SCR → faster warm-up, better NOx control.
- – CAMTRONIC valve lift adjustment → optimized valve timing for emissions and efficiency.
- – Lightweight aluminum block → improved fuel economy and handling.
OM654 Reliability & Driving Experience
- – Refinement: Quieter and smoother than OM651.
- – Efficiency: Up to 20% better fuel economy.
- – Torque delivery: Strong low-end pull, ideal for long-distance driving.
- – Emissions: Meets Euro 6d with integrated AdBlue SCR system.
Verdict: More durable and fuel-efficient than the OM 651, though some early units faced timing chain and injector seal issues.
Common OM654 Problems & Fixes
| Issue | Symptoms | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Injector seal leaks | Oil seepage, “black death” residue | Replace seals (~£600 repair); inspect injectors regularly |
| Timing chain wear | Rattle on cold start, occasional recalls | Monitor noise; replace during major service |
| Camshaft bearing wear | Turbo lag, noise (Sprinter forums) | Inspect followers/rockers; replace proactively |
| EGR/DPF/AdBlue faults | Emission warnings, limp mode | Clean/replace EGR, maintain AdBlue, perform DPF regens |
| Turbo/oil leaks | Boost drop, oil under turbo | Replace cracked hoses/gaskets; always use MB-approved oil |
Related case studies:
Car Dies While Driving: Case Study & Solution
Engine is Burning Oil: Solve it Easily
AdBlue System Malfunction: Full Repair Guide
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
- – Oil & filter: Every 10k mi, MB 229.51/229.52 spec
- – Injector seals: Inspect every major service
- – Timing chain: Check at 100–150k km if rattling
- – EGR/DPF cleaning: Every 60–80k mi, or earlier in city use
- – Turbo hoses: Inspect each service for cracks/leaks
- – AdBlue system: Top up monthly; keep fluid fresh
Pro Tip: Most OM654 limp-mode events are emissions related. Keep DPF clean and use high-quality diesel + AdBlue.
OM 654 vs OM651: Key Differences
| Feature | OM651 | OM654 |
|---|---|---|
| Block | Cast iron | Aluminum, ~34 kg lighter |
| Emissions | Euro 5 / early Euro 6 | Euro 6d with integrated DPF+SCR |
| Fuel Efficiency | Good | 15–20% better |
| Refinement | Noisier | Quieter, smoother |
| Turbo | Some variants with twin turbo | Single VGT |
Which Mercedes Models Use OM 654?
– C-Class (W205 facelift, W206) – C180d, C200d, C220d, C300d
– E-Class (W213) – E200d, E220d, E300d
– GLC (X253, X254) – 200d, 220d
– GLE (W167) – diesel + mild hybrids
– CLS (C257) – CLS 300d
– S-Class (W223) – base diesel trims
– Sprinter vans – newer variants
OM654 Oil Capacity
- => ~6.0–6.5 liters with filter (varies slightly by model).
- =>Always use MB 229.51/229.52 approved low-SAPs synthetic oils.
FAQ
Q1: Is the OM 654 reliable?
Yes, it’s considered more reliable than the OM651, but injector seals and timing chain wear need attention.
Q2: What is the lifespan of OM 654?
With proper care, many engines exceed 250,000 km (155k mi), especially in long-distance use.
Q3: OM6 54 vs OM656 – which is better?
The OM654 (2.0L I4) is more fuel-efficient and compact. The OM656 (3.0L I6) offers higher performance and smoother refinement.
For a full overview of all Mercedes powerplants, visit our Mercedes Engine Types Hub.
Author
Written by Mercedes Expert
With years of hands-on experience diagnosing and repairing Mercedes-Benz systems, he brings technical depth and practical case studies to help car owners, technicians, and enthusiasts troubleshoot complex automotive issues. His work focuses on clear repair guides, OEM-level procedures, and knowledge-sharing to empower both professionals and drivers.
Last Updated: September 2025
