2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is a high-performance luxury coupe boasting a hand-built 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 507 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) transmission. Owners often praise its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. Common complaints include high maintenance costs, complex electronics prone to failure, and firm ride quality. There are no other engine and transmission options available for the 2010 CLS63 AMG.

Engine

6.2L M156 V8

• Camshaft Adjusters/Lifters Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, especially on cold start. Can lead to reduced performance and eventually engine damage. More prevalent in earlier production years.
  • Solution: Replace camshaft adjusters and/or lifters. Can involve replacing camshafts depending on the severity of wear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Bolts Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, “milky” oil (coolant mixing with oil). Can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed. More prevalent in earlier production years of the M156.
  • Solution: Replace head bolts with updated design head bolts. May require head gasket replacement and machining of the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing, Oil Cooler Lines)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gaskets or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology)

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky gear changes, especially during downshifts or under light throttle.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. Adaptation reset using diagnostic tool. Potentially valve body replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high but slow acceleration or a delay in gear engagement
  • Solution: Typically a more serious issue requiring a valve body repair, clutch replacement, or full transmission replacement/rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running constantly, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut. $500-$1500 for air compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Hydraulic Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks, uneven ride height, warning lights on the dash
  • Solution: Replace ABC Pump, accumulators (spheres), valve blocks, or struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ depending on the component and if it is DIY or professionally installed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, unable to start the car, intermittent starting issues.
  • Solution: Replace the EIS module. Requires programming to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, wipers not functioning, or other electronic components failing.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit. Requires programming to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic drain using a multimeter or other diagnostic tools. Common culprits include faulty modules or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the cause. $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Remove and reseal the headlight housing. Replace any damaged seals or vents.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per headlight depending on DIY versus professional repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Frozen screen, unresponsive buttons, navigation issues, or complete system failure.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making excessive noise, or failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the tracks, replacing the sunroof motor, or repairing or replacing damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG, while a powerful and luxurious vehicle, is known for its potential for costly repairs. Engine issues, particularly with camshaft adjusters, head bolts, and oil leaks, can be significant expenses. Transmission issues, especially with the MCT transmission, can also be expensive to address. The air suspension system is a known source of problems. Electrical gremlins are also common. While many issues are minor, some can lead to significant expenses. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into the overall cost of ownership. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.