2013 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG is a high-performance roadster, celebrated for its powerful engine, luxurious features, and exhilarating driving experience. It came standard with a 5.5L twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 530 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque and was paired with an AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed automatic transmission. An optional performance package increased power output to 557 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the car’s impressive acceleration, comfortable ride (considering its performance capabilities), and stylish design. However, potential downsides include high maintenance costs, complex electronics that can be prone to issues, and the general expense associated with owning a high-performance vehicle.
Engine
5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, especially from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warning lights.
- Solution: Replace the affected gaskets or lines. Retorquing the bolts to the specified torque may temporarily alleviate the leak, but replacement is often necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the location of the leak)
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers in the M157 engine can experience issues, including wastegate actuator failures, oil leaks within the turbo, and complete turbo failure. Symptoms include a loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and check engine lights.
- Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the exact turbocharger issue is crucial. Replacement of the turbocharger or actuator is the most common solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $6,000+ (depending on if one or both turbos need replaced and labor costs)
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Fuel injectors can fail or become clogged, leading to rough idling, misfires, and a decrease in fuel efficiency.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty injector, followed by replacement. Cleaning the injectors may provide a temporary solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on how many injectors need replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
AMG Speedshift MCT 7-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Jerking
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or jerky shifting, especially during downshifts or at lower speeds. Can also be associated with delayed engagement into gear.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and adaptation reset may help. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (valve body replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can cause shuddering at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Can also trigger a check engine light and transmission fault codes.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks/Failures
- Description/Symptoms: The ABC suspension system is prone to leaks, particularly from the hydraulic lines, struts, and pump. Symptoms include a sagging suspension, uneven ride height, warning lights, and a stiff or bouncy ride. The ABC pump itself can also fail.
- Solution: Identify and repair the leaks. Replacement of the affected lines, struts, or pump may be necessary. Regular fluid flushes are also recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per strut, pump replacement can be $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can lead to a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty control modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
- Solution: Diagnostic testing to pinpoint the source of the drain. Replacement of the battery or faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failures
- Description/Symptoms: The SAM controls various electrical functions. Failure can lead to a variety of issues, including malfunctioning lights, wipers, and other electrical accessories.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ (depending on the specific SAM and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Convertible Top Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The convertible top mechanism can experience issues, including failures to open or close completely, unusual noises, and error messages.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue (hydraulic pump, sensors, wiring, etc.). Repair or replacement of the affected components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Seal Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the convertible top seals, especially during heavy rain.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn or damaged seals. Adjustment of the top mechanism may also be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- COMAND System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, replacement of the COMAND unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters and coolers can fail or become intermittent.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause of the malfunction (heating element, control module, etc.). Repair or replacement of the affected components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG offers exceptional performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues associated with this model. Engine oil leaks, turbocharger problems, and ABC suspension failures are significant concerns that can lead to high repair costs. Electrical gremlins, particularly those related to the SAM and convertible top, are also potential issues. While some problems may be relatively minor, others can be quite expensive to fix, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic essential. Due to the complexity of the car and the expensive parts, maintenance can be high.