2017 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG is a high-performance roadster that offers a thrilling driving experience. It’s equipped with a handcrafted 5.5-liter biturbo V8 engine producing 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission. While praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined handling, some owners have reported encountering certain issues. The SL series is also available with a more docile engine, the SL550 with a 4.7L biturbo V8 engine producing 449hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Dislikes often center on the car’s high maintenance costs and the complexity of its systems.

Engine

5.5L Biturbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the source and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including premature failure or excessive noise. Symptoms can include reduced power, whistling or grinding sounds from the engine bay, and error codes related to turbocharger performance.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found

4.7L Biturbo V8 No Issues Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi-Clutch Transmission)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed maneuvers or when the transmission is cold. Hesitation when accelerating is also a common complaint.
  • Solution: A transmission flush or a software update may resolve some issues. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (flush) - $5,000+ (rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC suspension can experience issues such as air leaks, compressor failure, or strut failure. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty components (air struts, compressor, or air lines).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various factors, including a faulty alternator, parasitic draw from electronic components, or a failing battery. Symptoms include difficulty starting the car, a dead battery, or frequent jump-starts.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the battery drain. This may involve replacing the battery, alternator, or troubleshooting and repairing faulty electronic components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top mechanism can experience problems such as failure to open or close properly, getting stuck mid-cycle, or leaking.
  • Solution: Inspecting and repairing the hydraulic system, sensors, and linkages associated with the convertible top.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor/Adjustment Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seat motors and adjustment mechanisms can fail, preventing the seats from moving properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motors or repairing the adjustment mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG, while a desirable high-performance vehicle, has potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine and transmission problems, particularly oil leaks and rough shifting, can be costly to repair. Suspension issues with the AIRMATIC system can also lead to significant expenses. Electrical and convertible top problems can add to the maintenance burden. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should factor in the possibility of these repairs when considering purchasing this model.