2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S is a high-performance variant of the W212 E-Class, known for its powerful engine and luxurious features. It came exclusively with a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) transmission. Owners generally praise the car’s exhilarating performance, comfortable ride (especially with the adjustable suspension), and upscale interior. Some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance, occasional electrical glitches, and the inherent thirstiness of a high-performance engine.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 (M157)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or general wear and tear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (depending on if one or both turbos need replacement and labor costs).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warning. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ (depending on the location and complexity of the leak).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+ (depending on the number of injectors replaced and labor costs).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG Speedshift MCT (Multi Clutch Technology)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially at lower speeds. Can sometimes be addressed with a transmission software update.
  • Solution: May require a transmission software update, valve body replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $7,000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs higher than usual without a corresponding increase in speed. The transmission may struggle to engage gears or shift smoothly.
  • Solution: This issue may require replacing the friction plates, valve body, or torque converter inside the transmission. In severe cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $7,000+ (depending on severity and repair required).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly, ride height is not properly maintained, suspension warning lights illuminate. Potential causes include leaks in air struts, a faulty air compressor, or a defective valve block.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air strut(s), air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut (depending on location and dealer vs. independent shop). Compressor and valve block replacements can range from $500 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Damper Control Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or uncomfortable ride, inability to select different suspension modes, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty damper control sensors or actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on which components need replacing).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car struggles to start or the battery dies frequently. Possible causes include a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Identifying and fixing the source of the parasitic draw. This can involve diagnosing individual components and wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue).
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Navigation Malfunctions, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $2,000+ (replacement of COMAND Unit)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning or inoperative sensors, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor (depending on location and type).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues (LED/Adaptive)
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, error messages related to the headlight system, adaptive headlight functionality not working.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty headlight components (LED modules, ballasts, etc.) or the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ per headlight (depending on the specific issue and whether individual components can be replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, difficulty opening or closing, excessive noise, water leaks.
  • Solution: Lubricating sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing damaged components (motor, cables, seals).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ (depending on the severity of the issue).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S is a performance machine that demands careful maintenance. The most concerning issues revolve around the engine (turbocharger failure, oil leaks), transmission (harsh shifting, slippage), and air suspension, which can lead to expensive repairs. Electrical gremlins are also common, but often less costly to fix. While the car offers an amazing driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the high cost of ownership. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It is important to obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles.