The importance of the MB 229.52 specification

Kirsten Lykke Bach 14 August 2020 Automotive, Passenger Cars
MB 229.52

The words Mercedes Benz are synonymous with quality. It is therefore no surprise that the MB approvals, managed by Daimler, require high performing, high quality engine lubricants.

MB229.52 is no exception. Introduced in 2012, it is designed for use in vehicles fitted with advanced exhaust after-treatment devices which meet Euro 6 requirements. These devices were particularly tailored for use with Mercedes Benz vehicles equipped with BlueTEC diesel technology. To meet these requirements, the lubricant needs to be formulated with lower levels of sulphur and phosphorus, as well as the metallic elements that give rise to sulphated ash when combusted.

But this is not the only requirement needed to gain an MB229.52 approval. Enhanced fuel economy is also a condition for this demanding specification: a fuel economy improvement of at least 0.7% over the equivalent MB229.51 lubricant is required.

MB229.52 was developed with the aim of offering all round performance and protection.
Building on the baseline of ACEA C3, the specification offers enhanced performance in the areas of oxidation, wear and corrosion.

Oxidation is of particular concern in modern engines because in recent years power densities have increased dramatically. Turbocharging, for example, is now commonplace in both gasoline and diesel powered vehicles but these devices operate at extremely high temperatures. A traditional mineral engine lubricant would quickly oxidize, giving rise to oil thickening, deposit formation, sludge and harmful by-products of oxidation. To meet the MB229.52 testing regime, the lubricant must be capable of withstanding the temperatures and pressures experienced in modern engines. In addition, MB 229.52 is also designed to be suitable for use with biodiesel, where there is a propensity for increased oxidation.

When choosing an engine oil, it is essential to use an oil fully approved to MB229.52 by Daimler, and to have the approval confirmed by checking its entry in the MB BeVo-ONLINE system, managed by Daimler to control and approve suitable operating fluids.

Q8Oils presents: Q8 Formula Prestige V 5W-30

  • Optimal fuel efficiency (savings up to 2,28 %)
  • Fully compatible with aftertreatment devices such as GPF’s (gasoline particulate filters)
  • Superior protection against LSPI
  • Successfully passed the VW Baumuster 2020 test programme

No products found.

From our expert Kirsten Lykke Bach

Ask Suggest a topic