2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, opulent interior, and advanced technology. It was offered with a 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. Both engines were paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) transmission. Owners often praise the S63 AMG for its blistering acceleration, comfortable ride, and luxurious appointments. Some common dislikes include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and the car’s considerable size, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (M157)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets and Oil Filter Housing
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can manifest as drips under the car, a burning oil smell, or visible oil residue around the valve covers or oil filter housing. Low oil levels may also be observed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noises from the engine, loss of power, check engine light activation. Can be caused by oil starvation, bearing wear, or wastegate issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

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

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly during low-speed maneuvers or when downshifting. Can also occur when changing between Comfort, Sport, and Manual modes.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and service, adaptation reset, or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay between selecting a gear (e.g., Drive or Reverse) and the transmission actually engaging.
  • Solution: Potential causes include low transmission fluid, worn clutch packs, or valve body issues. The solution will vary depending on the root cause, ranging from fluid service to transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $7,000+

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running constantly, “Visit Workshop” warning message related to the suspension. Air leaks in the air struts are common.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut(s), air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for compressor
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Hydraulic Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, red “ABC” warning light, stiff ride, and hydraulic fluid leaks.
  • Solution: Identify and repair/replace the leaking component (e.g., hydraulic line, pump, valve block, strut).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, difficulty starting the car. Caused by parasitic draws from various electronic components.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system, which controls navigation, audio, and other functions, can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Crankshaft Position Sensor, Camshaft Position Sensor)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough running, stalling, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or attempting to reseal the existing unit (which may or may not be successful).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight assembly

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, can be prone to several issues as it ages. Engine problems, particularly those related to oil leaks and the turbochargers, can be costly to address. Suspension issues, stemming from the complex airmatic or ABC systems, are also common and can lead to significant repair bills. Electrical problems, especially battery drain and COMAND system malfunctions, can also be frustrating. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. The cost of ownership can be high due to these potential repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering purchasing a used 2012 S63 AMG.