2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

Overview

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, a high-performance luxury sedan, generally offers a robust ownership experience, reflecting its premium engineering. However, as with any high-performance vehicle, particularly one with a complex twin-turbocharged V8 engine and advanced systems, certain areas warrant attention. Owners can expect a blend of exhilarating performance and sophisticated comfort, but understanding potential reliability points is crucial for proactive maintenance and cost management. This analysis focuses on documented common issues beyond standard wear and tear, providing insights into specific components and their potential concerns.

---

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 (M157)

Turbocharger Wastegate Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Reduced engine power, check engine light, whistling or rattling noises from the turbo area.
• Solution: Replacement of the wastegate actuator or the complete turbocharger assembly.
• Cost: $800 - $1500 per actuator

Coolant Leaks (Intercooler System)

• Symptoms: Overheating, loss of coolant, visible coolant residue around intercooler pipes.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking hoses, seals, or intercooler components.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Ignition Coil Failure

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light, reduced engine performance.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty ignition coils.
• Cost: $150 - $300 per coil

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed Automatic

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Active Body Control (ABC) Suspension

Hydraulic Leaks

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, ‘ABC Malfunction’ warning on the dashboard, stiff ride, fluid leaks under the car.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking hoses, struts, or the ABC pump.
• Cost: $1000 - $3000+ depending on component

ABC Pump Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of hydraulic pressure, vehicle sagging, ‘ABC Malfunction’ warning.
• Solution: Replacement of the ABC hydraulic pump.
• Cost: $1500 - $2500

Electrical

General Electrical System

Command System Glitches

• Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, screen flickering, navigation issues, audio problems.
• Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacement of the Command unit.
• Cost: $200 - $1500+

Battery Drain Issues

• Symptoms: Difficulty starting, battery warning lights, electrical components malfunctioning intermittently.
• Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, replacement of faulty modules or battery.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Exterior

General Exterior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

General Interior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

---

Summary Verdict

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a powerful and luxurious vehicle that, while generally reliable for its class, does present some potential areas of concern. The 5.5L twin-turbo V8 engine, while potent, can experience issues with wastegate actuators, intercooler leaks, and ignition coils. The advanced Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, a hallmark of S-Class comfort and handling, is prone to hydraulic leaks and pump failures, which can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the COMAND infotainment system and occasional battery drain, are also noted. Despite these potential issues, with diligent maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs, the S63 AMG can remain a rewarding ownership experience.