2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG S

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG S is a high-performance luxury coupe/sedan known for its powerful engine, sleek design, and luxurious interior. The model offered a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT multi-clutch transmission. While owners appreciate its blistering acceleration, refined ride quality, and sophisticated technology, some common complaints revolve around higher maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential issues with the air suspension system. Other potential issues include oil leaks and sensor failures.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. For rear main seal leaks, engine removal might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and complexity.
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, reduced power, and potential for complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (for both turbos)
• Fuel Injector Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ depending on the number of injectors replaced.

Transmission

7-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT Multi-Clutch

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially during low-speed maneuvers or when downshifting.
  • Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid flush, or in some cases, valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and required repair.
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs up without corresponding acceleration, indicating slippage within the transmission.
  • Solution: The transmission needs to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (AIRMATIC)
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly, compressor failure, error messages on the dash, and a generally rougher ride. The car may sag overnight.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air compressor, or associated sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ per strut depending on location and if replacing the compressor.

Electrical

• Sensor Failures (O2, MAF, Crankshaft)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor engine performance, rough idling, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per sensor depending on location.
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car is difficult to start or completely dead, especially after sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic draws. It may involve replacing the battery and ensuring the charging system is functioning correctly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the cause.
• Malfunctioning Command System
  • Description/Symptoms: The display screen is flickering, unresponsive, or not functioning.
  • Solution: Replace the display screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+

Exterior

• Headlight Issues (LED)
  • Description/Symptoms: LED headlights flickering or complete failure of certain LEDs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per headlight.

Interior

• Malfunctioning Seat Control Modules
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats stop adjusting properly, memory functions fail, or error messages related to the seats appear.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat control module or repairing the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per seat.

Recalls

• 2016030013
• 2017020007
• 2017070004
• 2018010014
• 2018080010
• 2019040007
• 2020020002
• 2020090016
• 2020090017
• 2022030009
• 22V925000
• 23V030000
• 23V619000

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG S offers impressive performance and luxury, but potential owners should be aware of the common issues. While some issues, like sensor failures, are relatively inexpensive to fix, others like air suspension or transmission problems can be quite costly. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, and proactive maintenance is crucial to minimize potential problems.