2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. The S63 AMG for the 2013 model year came with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 536 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. With the AMG Performance Package, the engine output was increased to 563 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the S63 AMG for its exhilarating performance, opulent features, and comfortable ride. Some downsides mentioned include high maintenance costs, complex electronics that can be prone to issues, and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 (M157)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto exhaust manifolds, burning smell, visible oil around valve covers.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks from Turbocharger Oil Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the turbochargers, burning smell, visible oil residue.
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger oil lines and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per coil)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Fuel Injectors
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ (for a set)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

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

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears, jerking sensation during acceleration.
  • Solution: Perform transmission adaptation reset, flush and replace transmission fluid, or replace valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving without corresponding acceleration, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000 - $8000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission not shifting correctly, getting stuck in gear, or going into limp mode.
  • Solution: Replace the Mechatronic Unit (valve body).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure (Struts/Compressor)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, suspension warning light, compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts or air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+ (per strut); $800 - $2000+ (compressor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airmatic Suspension Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Hissing sounds from suspension, vehicle sagging after being parked.
  • Solution: Locate and repair air leaks in lines or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draw, replace battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, navigation issues, audio problems, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Oxygen Sensors, Crankshaft Position Sensor)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor performance, misfires.
  • Solution: Replace faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues (LED Malfunctions)
  • Description/Symptoms: Flickering or non-functional LED elements in headlights.
  • Solution: Replace headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ (per headlight)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues (Failure to Open/Close)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not adjusting correctly or at all.
  • Solution: Replace faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (per motor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking (Common in Hot Climates)
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Replacement of dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, while a remarkable vehicle, is prone to several issues, most of which are costly to repair. The engine can experience oil leaks and ignition system problems, while the transmission may suffer from harsh shifting or even complete failure. The Airmatic suspension is a known weak point, with potential failures in the struts and compressor. Electrical problems, particularly related to battery drain and the COMAND system, are also prevalent. Interior and exterior issues such as dashboard cracks and headlight malfunctions add to the potential ownership costs. Overall, the S63 AMG offers exhilarating performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of the high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs.