2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG is a high-performance SUV that combines luxury with serious power. It was only available with the 5.5L Bi-Turbo V8 engine, producing 518 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque in its standard configuration, or 550 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque with the optional AMG Performance Package. This engine was paired with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the ML63 AMG for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some common complaints include high running costs (fuel, maintenance), complex electronics that can be prone to issues, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

5.5L Bi-Turbo V8 (M157)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, reduced engine power, check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or bearing failure.
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger(s). It’s often recommended to replace both turbos at the same time for balanced performance and longevity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbo, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Direct Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system fails to maintain the correct ride height or fails completely. This can cause the car to sit too low or too high, leading to a rough or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also present as harsh or delayed shifts.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a software update may help, but often the valve body itself is the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission stuck in gear, failure to shift, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate within the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking air struts, sagging suspension (especially overnight), rough ride, uneven ride height, suspension malfunction warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air strut(s). It’s often recommended to replace them in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days. Can be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. This can involve testing various modules and circuits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain and labor involved in diagnosis.
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, wipers not working, or other electronic systems failing.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ including labor and programming.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response, navigation issues, or complete failure of the COMAND system.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the issue and solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making noises, or failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the severity and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG offers exhilarating performance but can be prone to some significant issues, especially with the engine, transmission, and air suspension. Owners should be aware of the potential for turbocharger failure, oil leaks, torque converter issues, and Airmatic strut failures. Electrical gremlins can also be a concern. Repair costs can be high, reflecting the complexity and high-performance nature of the vehicle. While the performance and luxury are attractive, potential buyers should factor in the potential for costly repairs.