Reliability of Renault-Mercedes engines: what are they really worth?
A strategic partnership between Renault, Daimler (Mercedes-Benz) and Nissan since 2010, this sharing of engines mainly concerns diesel (1.5 dCi / OM608, 1.6 dCi / OM622-OM626) and petrol (1.3 TCe / M282) engines.
Designed to equip premium compact models (A-Class, B-Class, GLA, CLA, Citan…), they aim to combine economies of scale, strict Euro standards and competitiveness.
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Overview of the models concerned
Diesel
1.5 dCi (K9K / OM608)
- Originally from Renault (Clio, Mégane, Captur…), adapted for Mercedes under code OM608
- Engine displacement: 1,461 cc — 95 to 116 hp — fuel consumption ~4.1 L/100 km
Affected Mercedes models :
- Mercedes A-Class 160d / 180d (W176 then W177)
- Mercedes B-Class 160d / 180d (W246 then W247)
- Mercedes CLA 180d (C117 then C118)
- Mercedes GLA 180d (X156 then H247)
- Mercedes Citan 109 CDI / 111 CDI (1st generation, 2012–2021)
1.6 dCi (R9M/OM622) and 1.6 Blue dCi/OM626
- More powerful versions of the Renault diesel engine, also used on some Nissan models
- Power: 95 to 130 hp depending on the version
Affected Mercedes models :
- Mercedes Vito 109 CDI / 111 CDI / 114 CDI (OM622/OM626)
- Mercedes Citan Tourer / Van 111 CDI
- Mercedes C-Class (some German taxis)
Essence
1.3 TCe (H5Ht / M282)
- Engine developed by Renault-Nissan-Daimler, produced at Renault Valladolid (Spain)
- Direct injection, turbocharger, timing chain — 115 to 163 hp
Affected Mercedes models :
- Mercedes Class A 160 / 180 / 200 (W177)
- Mercedes B-Class 160 / 180 / 200 (W247)
- Mercedes CLA 180 / 200 (C118)
- Mercedes GLA 180 / 200 (H247)
💡 This engine replaces the old 1.6 turbo Mercedes engines, with improved fuel efficiency.
Quick summary
| Mercedes model | Period | Renault engine type | Mercedes engine code |
|---|---|---|---|
| A160d / A180d | 2012–2022 | 1.5 dCi (diesel) | OM608 |
| B180d | 2012–2022 | 1.5 dCi (diesel) | OM608 |
| CLA 180d | 2013–2022 | 1.5 dCi (diesel) | OM608 |
| GLA 180d | 2014–2022 | 1.5 dCi (diesel) | OM608 |
| Citan (1st generation) | 2012–2021 | 1.5 dCi (diesel) | OM608 / OM622 |
| Citan (2nd generation) | Since 2022 | 1.3 TCe petrol / 1.5 dCi | M282 / OM608 |
| A180 / A200 (petrol) | 2018–2022 | 1.3 TCe | M282 |
| B180 / B200 (petrol) | 2019–2022 | 1.3 TCe | M282 |
| CLA 180 / CLA 200 | 2019–2022 | 1.3 TCe | M282 |
| GLA 180 / GLA 200 | 2020–2022 | 1.3 TCe | M282 |
| Vito 109 CDI / 114 CDI | 2014–2020 | 1.6 dCi (diesel) | OM622 / OM626 |
Reliability per engine block
1.5 dCi / OM608 (Diesel)
Strengths
Proven engine: fuel consumption of 4.1–4.5 l/100 km, torque of 260 Nm, robust, often exceeding 250,000 km
High reliability rate: 92% after 100,000 km, very robust in its post-2012 versions
Points to watch out for
Injectors, EGR valve, and turbochargers are fragile in urban driving or with neglected maintenance.
Oil leaks reported in some cases
1.6 dCi / OM622‑OM626 (Diesel)
A more discreet but generally robust engine, with similar fuel consumption (~4–4.8 l/100 km). The main issues are related to the electronics and the EGR valve in urban driving.
1.3 TCe / M282 (Petrol)
Strengths
Modern, direct injection, variable geometry turbo: good flexibility and performance for a modest engine size, power output from 109 to 163 hp
Points to watch out for
Excessive oil consumption on certain versions (2018–2020), fragile ignition coils and timing chain
| Criteria | Renault-Mercedes engines | Original Mercedes engines |
|---|---|---|
| Overall reliability | ~8.5/10, more complex buildings | |
| Maintenance cost (annual) | ~€500–700 | ~800–1,200 € |
| Estimated lifespan | 200,000–300,000 km | Up to 350,000 km |
| Parts availability | Very good, more affordable price | Very good, but more expensive |
| Approval/performance | Good, but less refined | Superior, more “noble” |
Recommended maintenance — maximize reliability
- Oil change : every 15,000–20,000 km (or 1 year) with suitable oil (e.g. 5W30 C3).
- Regular motorway journeys to regenerate the DPF and prevent EGR fouling.
- Preventive cleaning : EGR valve (~80,000 km), fuel rail (petrol every 60,000 km).
- Turbo : let it idle when hot to cool passively.
- Timing belt (petrol): replace around 120,000–150,000 km or 6 years.
- AdBlue (for SCR diesel): level to be monitored and catalyst inspected.
Verdict
Renault-Mercedes engines are reliable and economical , holding their own against original Mercedes engines, provided that strict maintenance is followed.
They are ideal for drivers seeking fuel efficiency, controlled costs, and reasonable longevity. However, purists of Mercedes refinement will notice the difference: less power, less prestige, but excellent value for money.
Recommendations for buying second-hand
- Check the history: recent oil change and regular maintenance.
- Prefer mixed use or motorway rather than 100% city driving.
- Check oil levels and listen when the engine is warm to detect turbocharger or EGR.
