fits make: Mercedes. year: 2006.

( Manufacturer Part Number: A61010489 ), ( Type: Cylinder Head Assembly ), ( Oe/oem Part Number: A03191694 ), ( Material: Cast Iron ), ( Country Of Origin: Germany )
The **Mercedes-Benz A61010489 (OM460 MBE4000) Diesel Engine Cylinder Head Set (Part Number 457-18)** represents a critical, high-performance component designed for the robust and fuel-efficient OM460 diesel engine series, which powers a range of Mercedes-Benz commercial and luxury vehicles from the mid-2000s. Engineered with precision and built to withstand the demanding conditions of heavy-duty applications, this cylinder head set is a meticulously crafted assembly that ensures optimal combustion efficiency, thermal management, and long-term reliability. The OM460 MBE4000 engine, known for its durability and advanced direct-injection technology, relies on these cylinder heads to maintain peak performance, particularly in applications such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Vito, or certain luxury models like the E-Class (W211) and GL-Class (W463) vehicles from the 2006 model year. Each cylinder head in this set is forged from high-grade aluminum alloy, a material chosen for its exceptional heat dissipation properties and lightweight construction, which contributes to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. The heads are equipped with advanced combustion chamber designs, optimized valve angles, and precision-machined intake and exhaust ports to enhance airflow dynamics, ensuring a more efficient and powerful combustion process. The inclusion of modern valve train components, such as high-performance camshafts and robust valve springs, further amplifies the engine s responsiveness and reduces wear over extended periods. This cylinder head set is also designed with modern emissions compliance in mind, featuring integrated components such as turbocharger compatibility ports, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) passages, and precise fuel injector mounting surfaces to meet stringent environmental regulations without compromising performance. Whether used for a complete engine rebuild or as a replacement for worn or damaged components, this set is a direct-fit solution that restores the engine to its original specifications, ensuring seamless integration with the OM460 s fuel injection system, turbocharger, and other critical engine subsystems. For mechanics and enthusiasts seeking to restore or upgrade their Mercedes-Benz OM460-powered vehicle, this cylinder head set is an indispensable component that combines engineering excellence with the reliability expected from Mercedes-Benz s legendary diesel engines.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Mercedes-Benz A6 (W211) Cylinder Head Kit (Part Number: 457-18, OM460 MBE4000 Diesel, 2006 Model)**
#### **Pros**
1. **Compatibility and Fitment**
- The part number **457-18** is a direct replacement for the **OM460 MBE4000** cylinder heads used in the **Mercedes-Benz A6 (W211) 2006 model**, ensuring a proper fit without modifications.
- The **MBE4000** engine is a common diesel unit in the W211 platform, meaning aftermarket support (gaskets, bolts, seals) is widely available.
2. **Performance and Reliability**
- The **OM460 MBE4000** is a robust engine known for durability, especially when properly maintained. Replacing worn or cracked cylinder heads can restore power and prevent catastrophic engine failure.
- A fresh set of heads can improve **compression, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance** if the original heads were damaged by carbon buildup, overheating, or detonation.
3. **Cost-Effectiveness Compared to Engine Replacement**
- Replacing just the cylinder heads is significantly cheaper than a full engine swap, which can cost **$5,000 $10,000 ** depending on labor and parts.
- A **new or reconditioned head set** typically ranges from **$1,500 $3,500**, with labor adding another **$1,000 $2,500**, making it a far more affordable solution than a complete engine replacement.
4. **Prevents Long-Term Damage**
- Cracked or leaking cylinder heads can lead to **coolant mixing with oil, detonation, or complete engine failure** a major repair that is far more expensive.
- Addressing head issues early can **extend the engine s lifespan** and avoid secondary damage to pistons, valves, or the block.
5. **Aftermarket and Reconditioned Options**
- Many reputable suppliers (e.g., **Mercedes-Benz Parts Specialists, eBay Motors, or trusted junkyards**) sell **reconditioned or remanufactured heads**, which can be just as reliable as new ones if sourced correctly.
- Some sellers offer **warrantees**, reducing the risk of immediate failure.
6. **Potential for Increased Resale Value**
- A **fully restored engine** (including heads) can make the vehicle more attractive to buyers, especially if the car is being sold as a project or for parts.
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#### **Cons**
1. **High Upfront Cost**
- Even though it s cheaper than an engine replacement, the **total cost (parts labor) can still be substantial**, especially if additional work (e.g., valve job, gasket replacement, or torque plate replacement) is required.
- **Labor-intensive** removing and reinstalling heads requires **specialized tools (torque wrench, head gasket compressor, valve spring compressor)** and **experience** to avoid mistakes.
2. **Risk of Counterfeit or Poor-Quality Parts**
- The **aftermarket for Mercedes parts is flooded with knockoffs**, especially on eBay or Alibaba. **Fake or low-quality heads** can lead to **leaks, poor sealing, or premature failure**.
- **Recommendation:** Only purchase from **authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, reputable remanufacturers, or well-reviewed sellers** with return policies.
3. **Additional Repairs May Be Required**
- If the heads are being replaced due to **cracks, warping, or detonation damage**, the engine may have **internal wear** (worn valve guides, seats, or pistons) that needs addressing.
- **Torque plate replacement** (a thin aluminum plate between the heads and block) is often required when replacing heads, adding **$200 $500** to the cost.
- **Gasket replacement** (head gaskets, oil control rings) is usually necessary, increasing labor time.
4. **Labor-Intensive and Time-Consuming**
- The job requires **disassembling the engine, removing intake/exhaust manifolds, and carefully torquing the heads** to avoid warping.
- **Mistakes in torque specification or gasket alignment** can lead to **leaks or head gasket failure** after installation.
- **Not a beginner-friendly repair** unless you have **mechanical experience**, hiring a **Mercedes specialist** is strongly advised.
5. **Potential for Hidden Issues**
- If the **engine block is cracked, the oil passages are clogged, or the crankshaft is worn**, replacing just the heads won t fix the underlying problem.
- A **pre-purchase inspection (PPI) or engine teardown** may be necessary before committing to the repair.
6. **Emissions and Warranty Concerns**
- If the car is **under warranty**, replacing heads with **aftermarket parts** may void coverage.
- **Diesel emissions systems (DPF, EGR, turbocharger)** may need checking if the engine has been running poorly before the head replacement.
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### **Ending Conclusion**
Replacing the **Mercedes-Benz A6 (W211) OM460 MBE4000 cylinder heads (457-18)** is a **cost-effective way to restore engine function** and prevent catastrophic failure, but it is **not a simple or cheap repair**. The decision depends on:
- **The severity of the issue** (minor leaks vs. cracked heads).
- **The source of the parts** (new vs. reconditioned vs. aftermarket).
- **Your mechanical experience** (DIY vs. professional labor).
- **The overall condition of the engine** (are there deeper issues?).
If the **heads are cracked, warped, or leaking severely**, replacement is **necessary to avoid engine destruction**. However, if the car is **high-mileage or already in poor condition**, the repair may not be worth the investment.
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### **Recommendation**
1. **Verify the Condition of the Engine**
- Before purchasing heads, **inspect the engine block for cracks** (use a **dye test or pressure test**).
- Check for **worn valve guides, seats, or pistons** these may need replacement alongside the heads.
- If the **torque plate is cracked**, it must be replaced (common in OM460 engines).
2. **Source Parts Carefully**
- **Best option:** **Mercedes-Benz OEM or remanufactured heads** from a **trusted supplier** (e.g., **Mercedes-Benz Parts Specialists, JE Parts, or a local Mercedes dealer**).
- **Avoid:** Cheap aftermarket parts from unknown sellers **risk of leaks or failure**.
- **Consider:** A **complete engine rebuild kit** (heads gaskets bolts) for long-term reliability.
3. **Hire a Professional (Unless You Have Experience)**
- **Torquing cylinder heads incorrectly can warp them**, leading to leaks.
- **Specialized tools** (head gasket compressor, torque wrench) are required.
- A **Mercedes specialist** will ensure proper installation and catch any hidden issues.
4. **Budget for Additional Repairs**
- Expect to spend **$2,500 $5,000 total** (parts labor) depending on the scope of work.
- If the engine has **high mileage (over 200,000 miles)**, consider whether the repair is **worth the long-term value** of the vehicle.
5. **Alternative Considerations**
- If the car is **not a daily driver**, a **used rebuilt engine** (from a **trusted source**) may be a **cheaper alternative** than head replacement.
- If the **engine is beyond repair**, **scrap the car for parts** or consider a **used replacement engine** if the car is otherwise sound.
### **Final Verdict**
**Proceed with head replacement if:**The heads are **cracked, warped, or leaking severely**.
You have a **reliable source for OEM or high-quality remanufactured parts**.
You are **prepared for additional repairs** (gaskets, torque plate, etc.).
The **engine block is structurally sound** (no hidden cracks or wear).
**Avoid or reconsider if:**The **car has extremely high mileage** with no maintenance history.
You **lack mechanical experience** and cannot afford professional labor.
The **engine has other major issues** (block cracks, rod knock, etc.).
The **cost exceeds the car s value** sometimes, it s better to **buy a used replacement engine** or **scrap the project**.
For most **2006 Mercedes-Benz A6 (OM460) owners facing head failure**, **replacement is the best long-term solution** but it must be done **correctly and with quality parts** to avoid repeating the problem.
2006 Set of 6 Mercedes OM460 MBE4000 Diesel Engine Cylinder Heads Part # 457-18 OEM IN GOOD CONDITION PLEASE SEE PICTURES.