2013 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG is a high-performance SUV that blended luxury with impressive power. The GL63 AMG stands out with its hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 550 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque. While other GL-Class models came with different engines, including a diesel and a naturally aspirated V8, the GL63 AMG was the performance flagship. The GL63 AMG is also paired with a AMG Speedshift 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GL63 AMG for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and surprisingly agile handling for its size. Common dislikes include the high running costs, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 (M157)

• Oil Leaks from Turbocharger Oil Supply Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible around the turbochargers or on the ground, burning oil smell, low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger oil supply lines and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty MAF sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover area, burning oil smell, visible oil on the engine block.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Coolant Leaks from Coolant Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks visible, coolant smell, low coolant level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the coolant lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive turbo noise, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+

Transmission

AMG Speedshift 7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between gears, delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2,500+
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs high but the car doesn’t accelerate properly, loss of power.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging or sitting unevenly, “Airmatic Visit Workshop” warning message, loud compressor noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the airmatic suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging overnight, particularly at one corner, hissing sound from the air struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut
• ADS (Adaptive Damping System) Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or uncomfortable ride, “ADS Visit Workshop” warning message, inability to adjust suspension settings.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing and repair or replacement of faulty ADS components (sensors, control unit, struts).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the source of the parasitic drain, repair or replacement of faulty components (e.g., door control modules, seat modules).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or unresponsive COMAND system, issues with navigation, audio, or Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
• Malfunctioning Parking Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors not working or giving false readings, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty parking sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of sunroof tracks, repair or replacement of sunroof motor or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not adjusting properly, motors making grinding noises, or seat controls not responding.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty seat motors or control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat
• Door Lock Actuator Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG, while offering impressive performance and luxury, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly those related to oil leaks and rough shifting, can be costly to address. Suspension issues, especially with the Airmatic system, are also a common concern. Electrical and interior problems, while less frequent, can still be frustrating. Overall, the GL63 AMG can be an expensive vehicle to maintain, and potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their ownership considerations. The severity and cost of repairs can vary depending on the specific issue and the mechanic performing the work.