2012 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG is a high-performance luxury coupe featuring a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 536 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. An optional Performance Package increased output to 563 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a seven-speed MCT (Multi-Clutch Transmission) automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the CL63 AMG for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined ride. However, some common complaints include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential issues with the air suspension system.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (M157)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks commonly occur from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets and lines is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the source and severity of the leak.
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can fail due to oil starvation or general wear and tear. Symptoms include reduced engine power, unusual noises from the engine, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ depending on the extent of damage and if one or both turbos need replacement.
• Direct Injection Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Carbon buildup on the intake valves due to the direct injection system is a known issue. This can cause rough idling, misfires, and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Carbon cleaning of the intake valves via walnut blasting or chemical cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on how many need replaced)

Transmission

7-Speed MCT (Multi-Clutch Transmission)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: The 7-speed MCT can exhibit harsh or jerky shifting, especially at low speeds. Some owners have also reported hesitation during gear changes.
  • Solution: A transmission software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $4,000+ (valve body/rebuild)
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or abnormal noises coming from the transmission.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to leaks and failures. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, compressor running constantly, and “Car Too Low” warning messages.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
• ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: If the vehicle has the optional ABC suspension, issues may include leaks in the hydraulic lines, pump failure, or accumulator failure.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing leaking lines, replacing the pump, or replacing accumulators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ for line repairs, $2,000 - $4,000+ for pump replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various electrical issues. This can lead to a dead battery, especially if the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic drain, which may involve replacing faulty modules or repairing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
• Electronic Control Module (ECU) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in various systems, difficulty starting the engine, or transmission problems.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation buildup inside the headlight housing, or failure of the LED lights.
  • Solution: Replacing or resealing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (Mercedes’ infotainment system) can experience software glitches, screen failures, or navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, screen replacement, or COMAND unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the issue.
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG offers exhilarating performance and luxurious features but comes with potential maintenance challenges. Common issues revolve around the engine (oil leaks, turbo failures), transmission (harsh shifting), suspension (Airmatic/ABC failures), and electrical systems. Repair costs can be significant, particularly for suspension and engine-related problems. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the car’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Mercedes-Benz mechanic to identify potential issues. While some problems may be relatively minor, others can lead to substantial repair bills, making it crucial to be aware of these potential pitfalls before purchasing.