2009 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

2009 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

Overview

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, a high-performance luxury sedan, offers a potent combination of power and refinement. While generally well-regarded for its exhilarating driving experience and opulent interior, like any complex luxury vehicle, it has specific areas that warrant attention from an ownership perspective. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential issues and their associated costs for owners considering or currently possessing this model. Understanding these potential pitfalls can aid in proactive maintenance and budgeting for repairs.

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Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8

Coolant Leaks (Intercooler Hoses)

• Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, engine overheating, reduced engine performance.
• Solution: Replacement of degraded intercooler hoses and associated clamps.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, check engine light illumination.
• Solution: Inspection and potential rebuilding or replacement of turbochargers.
• Cost: $2,500 - $5,000 per turbo

Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)

• Symptoms: Burning oil smell, visible oil on the engine block, potential for oil to drip onto exhaust components.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed Automatic

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission warning lights, inability to select gears.
• Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the TCM.
• Cost: $1,000 - $2,000

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping gears, delayed engagement.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $1,500 - $2,500

Suspension

Active Body Control (ABC)

Hydraulic Leaks

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ‘ABC Malfunction’ warning on the dashboard, stiff ride.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking hydraulic lines, struts, or pump.
• Cost: $1,000 - $4,000+

ABC Pump Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of hydraulic pressure, vehicle suspension dropping, loud whining noise from the pump.
• Solution: Replacement of the ABC hydraulic pump.
• Cost: $1,200 - $2,000

Electrical

Infotainment System (COMAND)

Navigation System Glitches

• Symptoms: Inaccurate GPS positioning, freezing screen, failure to load maps.
• Solution: Software updates or replacement of the COMAND unit.
• Cost: $500 - $2,500

Sensors (Parking Assist, Rain Sensor)

Malfunctioning Sensors

• Symptoms: False warnings from parking assist, wipers not activating automatically.
• Solution: Cleaning, recalibration, or replacement of faulty sensors.
• Cost: $200 - $600 per sensor

Battery Drain

No major issues reported for this configuration.

Exterior

Standard Chassis

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Climate Control System

Blower Motor Resistor Failure

• Symptoms: Fan only works on highest setting or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Seat Adjustment Motors

Malfunctioning Seat Motors

• Symptoms: Power seats not moving or moving erratically.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty seat adjustment motors.
• Cost: $300 - $700 per seat module

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a powerful and luxurious vehicle, but its complexity, particularly the AMG-tuned engine and Active Body Control suspension, means potential owners should be prepared for higher maintenance and repair costs. Common issues revolve around the ABC system’s hydraulic components, turbocharger health, and the sophisticated transmission. Electrical gremlins, especially with the COMAND system and sensors, can also arise. While the core engine and transmission are robust when maintained, the specialized nature of AMG components and advanced systems necessitates diligent servicing and a budget for potential repairs. Overall, it’s a rewarding car to own if you prioritize performance and luxury and are prepared for the associated ownership costs.