2014 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG is a high-performance SUV known for its powerful engine and luxurious features, but also for its rugged, boxy design. While it offers impressive off-road capabilities and a prestigious image, it also faces criticism for its high running costs and limited fuel efficiency. The G65 AMG is equipped with a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 603 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. The G-Wagen also came with a 5.5L Twin Turbo V8 engine rated at 536 Horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L Turbo Diesel V6. All engine options are paired with a 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. Common owner dislikes include the fuel economy, and the high cost of maintenance.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbocharged V12 (G65 AMG)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various locations including valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets, lines, or seals. Properly torque all bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure can manifest as a loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the engine, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific turbocharger issue (e.g., wastegate malfunction, bearing failure) and replacing or rebuilding the affected turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbo, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (G63 AMG)

• Check Engine Light - Faulty Camshaft Adjuster Solenoids
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light turns on with codes related to camshaft position. The engine may experience rough idling, reduced power, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on how many need to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbo Diesel V6 (G350 BlueTEC)

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning light illuminated, and the engine entering limp mode.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF (if possible), or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ for DPF replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic Automatic Transmission (All Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. There could also be a noticeable delay when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In some cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,500+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop. Also, the transmission temperature may rise.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits low, especially on one side. The air suspension compressor may run constantly or fail to operate at all. An error message may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle leans to one side, the ride becomes bouncy or harsh, and the air suspension compressor runs frequently. Hissing sounds may be audible near the affected strut.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system may experience freezing, crashing, or display issues. Navigation, audio, and other functions may be affected.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software) - $3,000+ (replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Oxygen Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to oxygen sensor performance. Reduced fuel economy and rough engine running.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator may fail to lock or unlock the door, either intermittently or completely.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, make excessive noise during operation, or fail to close properly.
  • Solution: Inspecting and cleaning the sunroof tracks. Replacing the sunroof motor or other damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG, while powerful and luxurious, presents owners with a range of potential issues. Engine-related problems, especially oil leaks and turbocharger issues on the V12, can be costly. The air suspension system is another area of concern. While some electrical and interior issues may occur, they are less common. Overall, the cost to maintain and repair this vehicle can be significant, reflecting its high-performance nature and complex systems.