2013 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG is a high-performance coupe that blends luxury with exhilarating power. The primary engine option for this model year is the M157 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8, producing 536 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque (or 563 hp and 664 lb-ft with the optional Performance Package). This engine is paired with the AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the CL63 AMG for its stunning design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. However, some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as potential issues with the complex electronics and air suspension system.

Engine

M157 5.5L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbochargers, loss of power, potential check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or general wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (depending on location, parts, and if one or both turbos need replacing)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover/Timing Cover Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips on the exhaust manifolds, burning smell, visible oil leaks around the valve covers or timing cover.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or resealing the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, misfires, rough idling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, coolant puddles under the vehicle. Common leak points include the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak. This may involve replacing hoses, gaskets, the water pump, or the radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG Speedshift MCT 7-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, transmission slipping between gears, transmission warning light.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low fluid level, valve body issues, or clutch pack wear. Requires diagnosis and potential repair or replacement of affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (fluid change and service) - $7,000+ (transmission rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one or more corners, air compressor running constantly, suspension malfunction warning light.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the faulty component, which could be an air strut, air compressor, valve block, or air line. Replacement of the faulty part(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per corner for strut replacement, $800 - $1,500+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic electrical behavior, such as lights not working, wipers malfunctioning, or other electrical components failing to operate correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to confirm SAM failure and replacement of the faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the parasitic drain and repairing or replacing the faulty component. This could be caused by a faulty module, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Removing the headlights and drying them out, resealing the headlight housings, or replacing the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on the repair complexity and whether new headlight assemblies are needed).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, crashing, slow response times, or failure to boot up.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG offers impressive performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues outlined above. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to the turbochargers, fuel system, and transmission harshness, can be costly to repair. The air suspension system is also a known trouble spot. Electrical issues can be challenging to diagnose and resolve. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, it’s essential to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic experienced with Mercedes-Benz vehicles to assess the car’s condition and identify any potential issues before making a purchase. The cost of ownership can be high due to the potential for expensive repairs.