2006–2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Check engine light with cam timing codes (M272 balance shaft gear)
Likely causes, ranked
- Worn balance shaft sprocketShop
- Stretched timing chain or cam sensorShop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A check-engine light with P0016/P0017 (Mercedes 1200/1208), sometimes coming back right after clearing. Usually no noise at first.
Likely causes
- Balance shaft gear. BenzWorld W164 owners describe the soft balance shaft sprocket wearing on early M272 engines. Mercedes' bulletin limits it to engines below a certain serial number.
- Other causes. P0016 alone can also be a cam sensor, adjuster solenoid or chain.
DIY or shop?
Shop. The repair means major engine work.
Useful steps
- Check your engine serial number against the bulletin range.
- Read Mercedes-specific codes.
- Get a specialist quote before buying a high-mileage early M272.
Vehicle focus: 2006–2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class.
Safety / mechanic note
If the sprocket fails, the engine can run badly or stall. Verify with a mechanic or dealer.
Related trouble codes
Recalls & service bulletins
Technical service bulletins
- S-B-03.30/08 Mercedes bulletin for M272 engines below a set serial number with codes 1200/1208 (P0016 type): inspect and replace the balance shaft sprocket. Details
NHTSA complaints: 68 keyword-matched complaints for Mercedes-Benz ML350 2006–2008 (of 434 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.