2013 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is a high-performance variant of the C-Class, celebrated for its powerful naturally aspirated engine and engaging driving experience. Other engines available in the 2013 C-Class lineup include a range of smaller displacement inline-4 and V6 engines. The C63 AMG distinguishes itself with its hand-built 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing 451 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Many owners adore the C63 AMG for its distinctive engine sound, raw power delivery, and sharp handling. Common complaints often revolve around the car’s fuel economy, firm ride, and potential maintenance costs associated with a high-performance vehicle.

Engine

6.2L M156 V8

• Camshaft Adjusters/Camshaft Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially on cold starts. Loss of performance. Check engine light may illuminate. This is more common in earlier M156 engines, but can still occur in the 2013 model year.
  • Solution: Replacement of camshaft adjusters and/or camshafts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and if done at an independent shop or dealership.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage. The original head bolts (typically pre-2011) were prone to corrosion and failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of head bolts with updated design.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ as it is a labor-intensive job requiring engine disassembly.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Lifter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or clicking noise from the engine, especially noticeable at idle or low RPM.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty valve lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000-$5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic Automatic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, and general transmission malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on the shop and if the entire valve body is replaced or rebuilt.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibrations, or unusual noises during acceleration or gear changes.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped with optional air suspension)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, failure to maintain ride height, air compressor malfunction, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per corner for strut replacement; $500 - $1,500+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replacement of lower control arm bushings or entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Steering Lock (ESL) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to start the vehicle, steering wheel locked, error message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the ESL module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, difficulty starting the vehicle, electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain; potential replacement of the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ for diagnosis and minor repairs; battery replacement $200 - $500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making excessive noise, or failing to open or close properly. Water leaks may also occur.
  • Solution: Lubrication of tracks, replacement of faulty components, or complete sunroof assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, display issues, or complete failure of the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the issue and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, while thrilling to drive, can present owners with notable maintenance challenges. Engine issues, particularly those related to camshafts, head bolts, and valve lifters, can be expensive to rectify, representing a high-severity concern. Transmission problems, especially with the valve body, also contribute to potential repair costs. Electrical glitches, like the electronic steering lock, can be inconvenient. While other problems exist, the majority of concerns focus on the engine and transmission and the supporting systems of the car. Be aware that due to the age of the vehicle, these vehicles are all subject to age related failures, depending on the vehicles conditions.