2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is a high-performance variant of the E-Class, known for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and sporty handling. It came standard with a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Some owners love the raw power and aggressive styling, while others find the ride a bit harsh for daily driving and the maintenance costs quite high. Common complaints revolve around the air suspension, electrical glitches, and the general cost of maintaining a high-performance vehicle.
Engine
5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (M157)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the location of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, and potential oil leaks from the turbochargers. These engines run hot and it causes the turbochargers to fail.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbo.
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, and decreased fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on how many are replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
AMG Speedshift MCT 7-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Can be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update, or valve body replacement in severe cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the severity.
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause a delay in engagement or complete failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially on one side. Error messages on the dash related to the suspension system. The air compressor can also fail, leading to a complete loss of suspension function.
- Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800-$1500+ for the compressor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent glitches, such as warning lights, sensor failures, and potential engine performance issues. Can be difficult to diagnose without specialized equipment.
- Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the ECU.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery or difficulty starting the car after it has been sitting for a short time. Can be caused by a faulty component or parasitic draw.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw.
- Recalls: None Found
- COMAND System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, or complete failure of the infotainment system.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the issue and solution.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Panoramic Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Failure to open or close properly, excessive wind noise, or leaks.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters not working or only partially working.
- Solution: Replacement of the heating element or related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is a powerful and luxurious car, but ownership comes with potential issues. The most common problems revolve around the engine (oil leaks, turbocharger issues), transmission (rough shifting), air suspension, and electrical systems. Repairs can be costly, especially for the engine and suspension components. While some issues are minor and easily resolved, others can be quite expensive and require specialized knowledge to fix.