Vehicles using OM642.960 engine list:

Engine OM642.960

Symptoms:
- Rough idling and loss of power
- Excessive smoke from the exhaust (black or blue)
- Engine warning light illumination
- Increased oil consumption or oil leaks
- Hard starting or misfires
- Unusual noises from the engine bay

Diagnosis:
- Check for fault codes using a diagnostic scanner, focusing on EGR, turbocharger, and injector-related codes
- Inspect the EGR valve for clogging or failure, as carbon buildup is common
- Examine the turbocharger for shaft play or oil leaks
- Test the glow plugs and fuel injectors for proper operation
- Inspect the intake manifold and intercooler for carbon deposits
- Check for oil leaks around valve covers and oil cooler seals

Fixes:
- Clean or replace the EGR valve to restore proper exhaust gas recirculation and reduce carbon buildup
- Repair or replace the turbocharger if worn or leaking
- Replace faulty glow plugs and fuel injectors to ensure efficient combustion
- Perform intake manifold and intercooler cleaning to remove carbon deposits
- Replace valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals to stop oil leaks
- Regular oil and filter changes with manufacturer-recommended specifications to maintain engine health

Prevention:
- Use high-quality diesel fuel and adhere to recommended service intervals
- Regularly perform EGR and intake system cleaning to prevent carbon buildup
- Avoid frequent short trips that prevent the engine from reaching optimal operating temperature
- Monitor oil levels and quality, changing oil at prescribed intervals to prevent sludge and wear
- Address warning lights promptly to avoid escalation of issues
- Use OEM or high-quality replacement parts during repairs to ensure reliability

By following these diagnostic steps and maintenance practices, owners of Mercedes Benz C 320 CDI (2007–2009) and C 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (2009–2011) can mitigate common OM642.960 engine issues and maintain optimal performance.