2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG is a performance-oriented coupe and cabriolet that blends luxury with a potent engine. The most desirable feature of this vehicle is the high-powered engine, but many people dislike the low gas mileage of the engine. While other CLK models offered smaller V6 and V8 engines, the CLK63 AMG boasts a hand-built 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 475 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. Common complaints revolve around maintenance costs associated with an AMG model and potential issues stemming from its performance-focused components.

Engine

6.2L M156 V8

• Camshaft Adjusters/Camshaft Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, especially on cold starts. Can progress to rough running and decreased performance. Often caused by soft camshafts and aggressive lifters.
  • Solution: Replacement of camshafts, lifters, and potentially camshaft adjusters (phasers). Updated parts with improved metallurgy are available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant consumption, milky oil, overheating, and misfires. Often occurs due to the use of inferior head bolts from the factory.
  • Solution: Replacement of the original head bolts with updated, stronger aftermarket bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (can vary significantly based on damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing, Oil Cooler)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on location and severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, getting stuck in a gear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission going into limp mode, error codes related to speed sensors or solenoids.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, air compressor running constantly, error messages related to the air suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking air struts, the air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for compressor
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Red “ABC” warning light, uneven ride height, stiff or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the leak in the hydraulic lines or pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500+ for a leak and $2,000+ for the pump replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, difficulty starting the vehicle, or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ (requires programming)
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other electrical components. Can be caused by water intrusion.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific SAM module and repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG, while a desirable performance vehicle, can be prone to some costly repairs. The M156 engine, in particular, can suffer from camshaft wear and head bolt failures, leading to significant expenses. Transmission issues, particularly with the valve body, are also relatively common. Suspension problems are also present, but depend on if the vehicle has airmatic suspension. Electrical gremlins related to the EIS and SAM modules can also occur. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in higher maintenance costs when considering this vehicle.