2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is a high-performance four-door coupe that blends luxury with exhilarating power. The CLS63 AMG in 2012 exclusively featured a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 518 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, or 550 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque with the optional Performance Package. This engine was paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) transmission. Owners generally praise the car’s stunning design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes often revolve around the high cost of maintenance and potential for expensive repairs, as well as the firm ride quality.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (M157)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets/Camshaft Plugs
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible around the valve covers or rear camshaft plugs, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and camshaft plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbochargers, loss of power, check engine light. Potential oil leaks from turbocharger seals.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbochargers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced power, fuel smell, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank, hard start, no start, misfires, check engine light
  • Solution: Replacement of the high pressure fuel pump(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

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

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. Transmission slipping under heavy acceleration.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and adaption reset may temporarily improve the condition, but often requires valve body rebuild/replacement or complete transmission overhaul.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $8,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission going into limp mode, inability to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running constantly, “Vehicle Too Low” warning message.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per corner for struts, $500 - $1,500 for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: “Visit Workshop” warning related to ABC, stiff ride, inability to adjust ride height.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ABC pump, pulsation dampener, or flushing of the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ for the pump.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: ESP warning light illuminated, reduced power, intermittent braking intervention.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensor, or the ESP control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain, replacement of the battery, or faulty electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lenses, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Removal and resealing of the headlight lenses, replacement of the headlight assembly if damage is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Slow response, No response from the radio, GPS, or other system features.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sticking, difficult to open or close, unusual noises when operating.
  • Solution: Lubrication of sunroof tracks, replacement of faulty sunroof motor or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is a powerful and luxurious vehicle, but it is known for its potential for costly repairs. Engine issues such as oil leaks and turbocharger problems can be expensive to address. Transmission issues can also arise, particularly with the MCT transmission. Suspension problems, specifically those relating to the Airmatic or ABC systems, can add significantly to the overall ownership costs. Electrical issues can also be problematic. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchasing decision and budget for maintenance.