ENGINE MERCEDES 642920 OM642.920 3.0 CDI V6 320 82TKM COMPLETE

finding a Mercedes-Benz OM642.920 engine with only 82,000 km (82tkm) is an excellent find. This 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel is the backbone of mid-2000s Mercedes luxury, specifically powering the W211 E320 CDI and the W219 CLS320 CDI.

At this mileage, the engine is considered “barely broken in” by diesel standards, but it has reached the age where certain age-related seals and sensors require attention.

1. Technical Identification

• Engine Code: OM642.920

• Configuration: 3.0L V6 24V Turbo Diesel

• Output: ~165 kW / 224 hp

• Torque: 510–540 Nm

• Application: Primarily W211 (E-Class) and W219 (CLS-Class) Facelift models.

• Fuel System: Bosch Common Rail Injection (Piezo injectors).

2. 2026 Market Valuation (Estimated USD/EUR)

A “complete” engine at this mileage (including turbo, injectors, and fuel pump) commands a higher price than the average high-mileage units found in salvage yards.

3. The “While It’s Out” Checklist

The OM642 is a legendary engine, but it has specific design flaws that are much cheaper to fix while the engine is on a stand rather than in the car.

• Oil Cooler Seals: The $5 purple seals at the bottom of the “V” are notorious for leaking. If they haven’t been replaced with the updated Viton (Viton/Purple) seals, do it now. It saves 12 hours of labor later.

• Intake Manifold Flaps: The swirl flaps often get gummed up with carbon from the EGR system, causing the linkage to snap. Inspect the manifolds; many owners in 2026 perform a “swirl flap delete” or install aluminum linkages.

• Turbo Inlet Seal: Ensure the red rubber seal where the air intake meets the turbo is new and tight. If it leaks, oil drips directly onto the Swirl Flap Motor (EKAS), shorting it out and putting the car in limp mode.

• PCV Valve: A failing PCV valve causes excessive oil vapor to enter the turbo, accelerating carbon buildup in the intake.

4. Installation & Compatibility

• Injectors: If the engine comes with its original injectors, you must code the individual IMA (Injector Quantity Adjustment) codes into your car’s ECU via Xentry/Star Diagnosis for a smooth idle and proper emissions.

• Turbocharger: The OM642.920 uses a Garrett VNT turbo with an electronic actuator. Ensure the actuator moves freely; they can seize from sitting in storage.

• Oil Spec: Only use MB 229.51 or 229.52 low-ash oil to protect the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).