Description

This is a fully reconditioned Garrett GT17V turbocharger for the Mercedes E-Class CDI models fitted with the 170 HP OM651 diesel engine, covering years 2009 to 2016. Our service restores the unit to original equipment (OE) specification, using a brand new, VSR high-speed balanced core assembly (CHRA) and a calibrated electronic actuator.

The GT17V is a Variable Nozzle Turbine (VNT) turbocharger, which uses adjustable internal vanes to control exhaust gas flow. This technology provides excellent throttle response and efficiency across the engine’s entire operational range. However, this complexity also introduces specific points of failure, particularly on modern diesel engines like the OM651.

The most common failure mode we see at Gap Turbos for this unit is seizure of the VNT mechanism. Over time, soot and carbon deposits from the exhaust gas build up on the delicate vanes, causing them to stick. This prevents the turbo from regulating boost pressure correctly, leading to fault codes, engine management lights, and the vehicle entering ‘limp mode’. Another frequent issue is the failure of the electronic actuator that controls the vane position. This can be an internal electronic fault or a mechanical failure of the worm gear, both of which will prevent the turbo from functioning correctly.

Standard bearing wear due to oil contamination or starvation can also occur, identifiable by a high-pitched whining noise or smoke from the exhaust. Our reconditioning process addresses all these issues. We completely disassemble the unit, ultrasonically clean all components, and replace the entire rotating assembly with a new, balanced core. The VNT mechanism is stripped, cleaned, and re-calibrated on a flow bench to ensure perfect operation. The electronic actuator is tested and replaced if it fails our diagnostic checks.

What this turbocharger fits

• Make: Mercedes-Benz
• Model: E-Class (W212/S212) E220 CDI
• Engine Code: OM651
• Displacement: 2.1L / 2143cc
• Power Output: 170 HP / 125 kW
• Year Range: 2009 – 2016
• OE Part Number: 759688-5007s
• Alternative Part Numbers: A6460900480

We offer this part as an exchange unit from stock, or we can recondition your own turbocharger. Gap Turbos also provides a professional fitting service at our Birmingham workshop, where we can also address related issues like DPF cleaning. All our reconditioned turbochargers are supplied with a comprehensive warranty. Please contact us for a detailed quote.

Specifications

Vehicle fitment

• Mercedes E-Class CDI

Common faults & troubleshooting

• Limp mode and engine management light: Often caused by the VNT mechanism sticking due to carbon, leading to over-boost or under-boost fault codes (e.g., P0299).
• Whining or high-pitched siren noise: This indicates worn bearings inside the turbo’s core (CHRA), typically resulting from an oil supply or contamination issue.
• Blue or grey smoke from the exhaust: A classic sign of failed oil seals inside the turbo, allowing engine oil to pass into the intake or exhaust system and be burnt.
• Noticeable loss of power and poor acceleration: Can be caused by a failed electronic actuator or a seized VNT mechanism that prevents the turbo from building boost correctly.
• Intermittent power loss that resets after restarting: This often points to an electronic actuator fault or a VNT mechanism that is beginning to stick, temporarily freeing itself.

Fitting notes for this unit

• Prime the turbo before starting: Before connecting the oil feed line, use a syringe to inject 10-20ml of fresh engine oil directly into the turbo’s oil feed port and slowly turn the compressor wheel by hand.
• Replace the oil feed pipe and banjo bolts: The oil feed pipe for the OM651 is a mandatory replacement item. It can become restricted with carbonised oil, which will starve the new turbo and cause immediate failure.
• Check the exhaust manifold for cracks: The cast manifold on this engine is known to crack. Inspect it carefully before fitting the new turbo, as an exhaust leak will affect performance and turbo longevity.
• Use all new gaskets and studs: Never reuse old gaskets, washers, or stretched studs. The fitting kit supplied with our turbo contains all necessary components for a correct, leak-free seal.
• Perform a full oil and filter change: Use only Mercedes-Benz specification engine oil (e.g., MB 229.51) and a high-quality oil filter. Contaminated oil is the number one killer of turbochargers.
• Initial start-up procedure: After installation, disable the fuel system and crank the engine for 15-20 seconds. This allows oil pressure to build up and circulate through the new turbo before it spins at high speed.

Alternative part numbers

This turbo is also referenced by:

• A6460900480 — Mercedes Turbocharger OEM A6460900480 (Mercedes E-Class CDI, OM651, 170hp)

Frequently asked questions