2016 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG is an iconic and powerful SUV, known for its luxurious interior, distinctive boxy design, and impressive off-road capabilities. The G63 AMG for 2016 is powered by a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 563 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift Plus transmission. Owners often praise the G63’s commanding presence, powerful engine, and luxurious cabin. However, common complaints often revolve around the vehicle’s high fuel consumption, firm ride, and considerable price tag.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 (M157)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. These leaks can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals. Thorough cleaning of the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, and check engine light illumination can indicate turbocharger problems. These issues may stem from failing bearings, damaged turbine wheels, or malfunctioning wastegates.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific turbocharger issue. Depending on the severity, repair or replacement of the affected turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light due to O2 Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, potential decrease in fuel economy, and potential engine misfires can be caused by faulty O2 sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the failing O2 sensor. Replacement of the failed O2 sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears. Can also be accompanied by clunking noises.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, TCU (Transmission Control Unit) reflash, or valve body replacement. In severe cases, full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+, depending on the required solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibrations, or stalling, especially at low speeds or when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ride height malfunctions, compressor noise, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the leaking air spring, faulty compressor, or malfunctioning valve block. Replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per corner for air springs. $500 - $1,500+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ride Height Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate ride height readings, causing the suspension to not function properly. Can cause the vehicle to ride extremely low or high.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, or slow response times of the COMAND system.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity. Often caused by a parasitic drain from faulty modules or aftermarket accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the source of the drain. Repair or replacement of the responsible component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to lock or unlock doors using the key fob or interior switches.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to warm up or overheating.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the faulty heating element or control module. Replacement of the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, while a highly desirable vehicle, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly oil leaks, turbocharger problems, and rough shifting can be costly to address. Suspension issues, especially concerning the air suspension system, are also common. Electrical glitches can also affect the vehicle’s functionality. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for repairs and maintenance. The severity and cost of these issues can vary significantly, but it’s important to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Mercedes-Benz technician to identify any existing problems.