Mercedes equipped with Renault engines: complete guide and accessories
Are you looking to buy a Mercedes equipped with a Renault engine , or do you simply want to understand which models feature these reliable and economical engines? You've come to the right place. In this article, we present all the Mercedes models concerned , their production years, the type of Renault engine used, as well as practical advice for their maintenance and reliability.
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How can you tell if you have a Renault or Mercedes engine? Our summary table
To help you immediately identify models equipped with a Renault engine , here is a clear and concise table:
| Mercedes model | Renault engine | Engine type | Production years | Reliability notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class A 160 CDI / A180 CDI (W168) | 1.4/1.6 petrol, 1.5 dCi diesel | 4 cylinders | 1997–2004 | Timing belt to monitor, injectors |
| Class A 150 / A160 / A180 CDI (W169) | 1.5 dCi diesel | 4 cylinders | 2004–2012 | DPF and EGR are sensitive; regular maintenance is recommended. |
| A-Class 180 CDI (W176) | 1.5 dCi diesel | 4 cylinders | 2012–2018 | Very economical, decent torque, mixed use recommended |
| Class B 150 / B160 / B180 CDI (W245) | 1.5 dCi diesel | 4 cylinders | 2005–2011 | Be vigilant about DPF and EGR in urban areas |
| B-Class 180 CDI (W246) | 1.5 dCi diesel | 4 cylinders | 2011–2018 | Fuel injection sensitive after 150,000 km, regular maintenance |
| Citan 108 / 110 / 112 CDI | 1.5 dCi diesel, sometimes 1.2 TCe petrol | 4 cylinders | 2012–2023 | DPF and EGR sensitive on short journeys |
| CLA 180 CDI / 200 CDI (C117) | 1.5 dCi diesel | 4 cylinders | 2013–2019 | Decent reliability, but be vigilant regarding the DPF/EGR. |
| GLA 180 CDI / 200 CDI (X156) | 1.5 dCi diesel | 4 cylinders | 2014–2020 | Regular maintenance is recommended for longevity. |
Mercedes A-Class and Renault engines
The A-Class is the most iconic model to have incorporated Renault engines.
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A-Class 160 CDI / A180 CDI (W168, 1997–2004) : These early A-Class models used Renault 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines, as well as the 1.5 dCi diesel. These engines offer excellent fuel economy, but the timing belt and injectors require regular checks.
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A-Class 150 / A160 / A180 CDI (W169, 2004–2012) : These models were instrumental in popularizing the Renault 1.5 dCi diesel engine at Mercedes. Reliability is generally good, but the EGR valve and DPF can cause problems if the car is primarily used in city driving.
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A-Class 180 CDI (W176, 2012–2018) : In this generation, the 1.5 dCi Renault engine is very economical and offers good torque, ideal for mixed highway/city driving. The engine remains robust, but regular maintenance is essential for its longevity.
Mercedes B-Class and Renault engines
The B-Class was also equipped with Renault engines, particularly for the entry-level diesel versions.
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B-Class 150 / B160 / B180 CDI (W245, 2005–2011) : The Renault 1.5 dCi engine is reliable and economical, but beware of wear on the DPF and EGR valve , especially in frequent urban use.
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B-Class 180 CDI (W246, 2011–2018) : Modern and efficient 1.5 dCi K9K diesel engine. The injectors may become sensitive after 150,000 km. Regular maintenance is strongly recommended to ensure optimal longevity.
Mercedes Citan and Renault engines
The Mercedes Citan is an adaptation of the Renault Kangoo, with Renault engines integrated for all versions:
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Citan 108 CDI / 110 CDI / 112 CDI : Renault 1.5 dCi diesel, sometimes 1.2 TCe petrol depending on the market.
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Very economical and practical for professional or family use.
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As with all Renault diesels, the EGR valve and the DPF should be monitored on short journeys to avoid breakdowns and loss of power.
Mercedes CLA and GLA: lightweight diesel versions
Some entry-level CLA and GLA models received the Renault 1.5 dCi engine to reduce costs and fuel consumption:
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CLA 180 CDI / 200 CDI (C117, 2013–2019)
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GLA 180 CDI / 200 CDI (X156, 2014–2020)
These compact and economical engines are suitable for mixed use. Regular maintenance remains essential for longevity , especially for the DPF and EGR valve. The Renault diesel versions in the CLA and GLA offer a good combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and controlled maintenance costs.
Reliability of Renault engines on Mercedes
The Renault engines used in Mercedes vehicles are generally reliable and economical , but some points deserve attention:
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DPF and EGR valve : sensitive to intensive urban use and short journeys.
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Injectors : to be checked from 150,000 km on Renault diesels.
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Timing belt and distribution : especially on petrol engines.
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Water pump and thermostat : check regularly on some recent diesel engines.
For a complete guide on the reliability of Renault engines in Mercedes vehicles , including advice on buying used and maintenance, see our dedicated article:
👉 Reliability of Renault engines on Mercedes
Conclusion
If you're looking for a compact, economical, and reliable Mercedes, the CDI versions equipped with Renault engines (A-Class 180 CDI, B-Class 180 CDI, Citan CDI, CLA/GLA 180 CDI) are an excellent option. With regular maintenance and careful attention to emissions control systems and injectors, these engines offer fuel economy, robustness, and reliability .
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