2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan boasting a hand-built 6.2L naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 518 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi-Clutch Transmission). Owners generally praise its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride, while some common complaints revolve around maintenance costs, electronic glitches, and the car’s large size, making it less agile than smaller sports sedans.

Engine

6.2L M156 V8

• Camshaft Adjuster Bolts Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The original camshaft adjuster bolts (early production M156 engines) are prone to failure. Symptoms include a ticking noise from the engine, especially upon start-up, and potential engine damage if the bolts break and enter the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the original camshaft adjuster bolts with updated, stronger bolts. The Mercedes-Benz part number for the updated bolts is often referenced in online forums.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (depending on whether the bolts have already failed and caused additional damage).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Failure/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the plastic intake manifold, often around the seams or vacuum lines. This can lead to vacuum leaks, rough idling, decreased performance, and potential check engine lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ (including parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. These leaks can lead to oil consumption and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

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

• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh shifting, especially during downshifts or when cold, as well as delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush with proper Mercedes-Benz approved fluid, software update, or potentially valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ (depending on the cause and required repair).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slippage, particularly when accelerating or under load.
  • Solution: Could require a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is known for potential issues, including air leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, and valve block malfunctions. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, the suspension failing to raise or lower, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut, compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor, $500-$1000+ for the valve block.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various ECU failures can occur, leading to a range of problems such as engine misfires, transmission issues, and malfunctioning sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the affected ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the car or a dead battery. This can be caused by faulty modules not properly shutting down or parasitic drains.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain, which may involve replacing a faulty module or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause).
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, including screen freezes, navigation problems, and audio malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight seals or, in severe cases, the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200 for seals, $1,000+ for headlight assembly.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctioning, sticking, or failing to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof tracks or replacement of the sunroof motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, while offering impressive performance and luxury, can present owners with a range of issues, particularly related to the engine (M156 specific problems), transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Repair costs can be significant, especially for engine and suspension-related problems. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Mercedes-Benz mechanic is highly recommended.