Timing chain Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205 M274 (2.0) — service life and replacement

Timing chain for Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205 M274 (2.0, 2013–2021) — service life, wear symptoms, OEM number and Iwis / Morse equivalents.

Engine Specifications

Timing Chain Service Life

Timing chains do not have a fixed OEM replacement schedule, but replacement is recommended when wear symptoms appear or at the stated mileage.

Wear Symptoms and Known Issues

chain stretch at high mileage if oil not changed on time

Typical timing chain stretch symptoms:

• Rattling or ticking noise on cold start (first 2–5 seconds)
• Fault codes P0016 / P0017 (camshaft position correlation)
• Rough idle
• Timing marks misalignment on inspection

Timing Chain Cross-Reference

Replacement Recommendations

1. Replace the full kit — chain, tensioner, guides, and sprockets if worn.
2. Oil quality is critical — M274 requires quality oil changed every 10,000 km. Chain stretch is directly linked to oil maintenance.
3. Diagnose when cold — symptoms disappear 30–60 seconds after start (oil reaches tensioner). Always check on a cold engine.
4. Standard removal — chain is located at the front of the engine; job takes 4–8 hours.

Domande frequenti

When to replace the timing chain on Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205 M274?

Replace when cold-start rattle appears or at 200 000 km. Do not delay — a broken or jumped chain means engine rebuild costing thousands.

Which timing chain replacement for M274?

OEM A 274 052 02 16 is the safest choice. Quality alternatives: Iwis 50IH7-46 (German-made) and Morse CS2-46. Avoid unknown-brand chains.

Why does the M274 timing chain only rattle when cold?

On a cold engine, oil has not yet filled the chain tensioner. If the rattle stops within 5–10 seconds — the chain is worn but still functional. If the rattle persists longer or does not stop — replace immediately.