2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is a performance sedan known for its powerful naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 engine, producing 451 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. It was only offered with the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. Owners love the car’s raw power, aggressive styling, and distinctive exhaust note. Common complaints include higher running costs due to fuel consumption, maintenance, and potential reliability issues associated with an aging performance vehicle.

Engine

6.2L M156 V8

• Camshaft Adjuster Bolts
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft adjuster bolts (often called “head bolts”) can fail, leading to significant engine damage. Symptoms include a ticking noise, misfires, and potential engine failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the camshaft adjuster bolts with updated, stronger bolts is the recommended fix. The valve cover gaskets, camshaft position sensors, and other related components should be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+ (depending on extent of damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lifter Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise coming from the engine, especially when cold, and can persist when the engine is warm. This can be related to the lifters needing to be replaced.
  • Solution: Replacing all the lifters and associated parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+ (depending on extent of damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the intake manifold, leading to vacuum leaks. Can cause rough idling, misfires, and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, especially from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and oil cooler lines.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ (depending on location and severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Thermostat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating due to a stuck thermostat.
  • Solution: Replacing the thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or complete transmission failure. The conductor plate houses the transmission control unit (TCU) and sensors.
  • Solution: Replacing the conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension (if equipped) can develop leaks in the air struts or the air compressor can fail, leading to a saggy or uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500 for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, or the key not being recognized by the ignition.
  • Solution: Replacing the EIS module. Requires programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The SAM controls various electrical functions. Failures can cause issues with lights, wipers, and other electronic components.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM unit and programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for a few days.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic drain. This can involve checking various electrical components and modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights becoming dim, flickering, or failing completely.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight bulbs or the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on headlight type)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system (navigation, audio, etc.) can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Updating the software or replacing the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is a desirable performance car, but it’s essential to be aware of its potential issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the M156 engine’s camshaft adjuster bolts, lifters, and intake manifold, which can lead to costly repairs. Transmission conductor plate failures and electrical issues with the EIS and SAM modules are also common. Suspension components, particularly the air suspension (if equipped), may require attention. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be severe and expensive. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles and consider budgeting for potential repairs.