2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan that delivers a blend of power, comfort, and technology. It was offered with a 5.5L Twin Turbo V8 engine that produced 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed). While praised for its exhilarating performance, luxurious interior, and advanced features, some owners have reported certain issues. Some common complaints include the complex electronics being prone to glitches, and the air suspension needing costly repairs.

Engine

5.5L Twin Turbo V8 (M157)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity.
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Check Engine Light Codes
  • Description/Symptoms: SES light displayed on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Resolve the issue by replacing a bad catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, or mass airflow sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the exact parts.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission service (fluid and filter change). If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be required to identify faulty valve body components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for fluid and filter change. Valve body repair/replacement could cost $1,500 - $3,000+.
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower than normal, especially on one side, “Visit Workshop” warning light. May also experience a rough or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific component failure (air strut, air compressor, valve block, or air line). Replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air struts are typically $800-$2,000+ each (plus labor), compressor replacement $800-$1,500+, valve block replacement $500-$1,000+.
• Air Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Hissing sound near the wheels, car sinking overnight, “Visit Workshop” message.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the air leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1000+ depending on severity.

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car doesn’t start after sitting for a short period, frequent jump starts required.
  • Solution: Diagnose the parasitic draw and identify the faulty component causing the drain. Common culprits include the infotainment system, seat control modules, or alarm system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezes, system reboots randomly, navigation issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update. If the problem persists, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates may be free or a small fee at the dealership. COMAND unit replacement could cost $1,500 - $3,000+
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: A sensor fails to report a reading or reports an incorrect reading.
  • Solution: Replace the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the sensor and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: LED daytime running lights failing or flickering, headlight condensation.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per headlight.
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or clicking when opening or closing. May stop working entirely.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Interior

• Seat Control Module Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat adjustments not working, memory seat functions failing.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly, unusual noises from the door.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door.

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a powerful and luxurious vehicle but can be prone to certain issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the air suspension system, the twin-turbo engine, and complex electronics. Repairs can be costly, especially for the suspension and engine components. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history.