2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan boasting a handcrafted 5.5-liter Biturbo V8 engine, generating 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. It was also available in the standard S550 with a 4.7L Biturbo V8 and the V12 S65 AMG. Paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT transmission, it delivers impressive acceleration and a refined driving experience. Owners generally praise the S63 AMG for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, advanced technology, and comfortable ride. Common complaints revolve around the car’s high maintenance costs, complex electronics that can be prone to glitches, and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.5L Biturbo V8 (M157)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (per turbo)
  • 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, timing chain cover, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG Speedshift MCT (722.9)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear, or during downshifts. May also experience a “clunking” noise.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, valve body replacement or repair may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush $300 - $500. Valve body repair/replacement $1,500 - $4,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, particularly when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits unevenly, suspension warning light, compressor noise or failure, harsh ride. Individual struts, the compressor, or the valve block may be the cause.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air strut replacement $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut. Compressor replacement $1,000 - $2,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Hydraulic Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits unevenly or droops, suspension warning light, power steering issues.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the hydraulic leak, typically by replacing hoses or struts. Flush and refill the ABC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezes or goes blank, navigation system errors, audio system problems, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update $100 - $300. COMAND unit replacement $1,500 - $4,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, or other driver-assistance systems. Warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per sensor depending on the location and type.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car is slow to start or doesn’t start. Battery repeatedly dies, even when the car isn’t being used.
  • Solution: Test the battery, alternator, and electrical system for parasitic draws. Replace the battery, alternator, or repair the faulty electrical component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement $300 - $600. Alternator replacement $800 - $1500. Diagnose and repair parasitic draw $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof jams, makes grinding noises, or fails to open or close properly. Water leaks may also occur.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism. Ensure proper drainage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor/Adjustment Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat fails to adjust properly, motor makes clicking noises, or gets stuck in one position.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat motor or adjustment mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors fail to lock or unlock properly, or make a buzzing noise.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, while offering exceptional performance and luxury, can be prone to several issues, particularly related to its complex engine, transmission, air suspension, and electronics. Repairs can be expensive, especially for turbocharger replacements, suspension overhauls, and electrical system diagnostics. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential costs and ensure a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic before purchase. The most concerning and expensive issues tend to revolve around the engine, suspension, and transmission, while electrical glitches, although less expensive, can be frustrating.