2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is a performance-oriented luxury sedan known for its sleek coupe-like styling and powerful engine. The CLS63 AMG comes equipped with a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 507 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC). Owners often praise the car’s powerful engine, luxurious interior, and distinctive design. Common complaints include high maintenance costs, potential for expensive repairs, and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

6.2L M156 V8

• Camshaft Adjusters/Lifters Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold. Can lead to reduced performance and eventually engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of camshaft adjusters (cam phasers) and potentially camshafts and lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant consumption, milky oil, or overheating. This is caused by corrosion of the head bolts over time.
  • Solution: Replacement of head bolts (typically with updated aftermarket bolts) and head gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips, burning oil smell. Common leak locations include valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and front timing cover.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds. Can also cause erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, erratic shifting, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low or unevenly, compressor running constantly, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ depending on the component that failed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS/ESL Failure (Electronic Ignition Switch/Electronic Steering Lock)
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, vehicle not starting, steering wheel locked.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS/ESL module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnostic to find parasitic drain, potential replacement of modules or wiring repairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Resealing the headlight housing or replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises during operation, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG, while offering impressive performance and luxury, is prone to several issues. Engine problems, particularly camshaft adjuster/lifter wear and head bolt failure, are significant concerns due to their high repair costs. Airmatic suspension issues are also common and can be expensive to resolve. While the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC transmission is generally reliable, potential torque converter and valve body issues should be considered. The EIS/ESL failure and battery drain can also cause issues. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in maintenance and repair costs when considering this vehicle.