2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is a high-performance sports car known for its aggressive styling, track-focused capabilities, and powerful engine. The standard engine is a handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine, producing 577 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It is exclusively paired with a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT transmission. Common praises include its impressive handling, exhilarating acceleration, and distinctive exhaust note. Criticisms often revolve around its stiff ride quality, limited practicality, and higher price point compared to competitors.

Engine

4.0L V8 Biturbo

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, reduced power, check engine light. Potential for complete turbo failure.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Leaks often occur at the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or turbocharger oil lines.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT

• Rough Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed maneuvers or when downshifting. Can also present as hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Transmission control unit (TCU) reprogramming, clutch adjustment, or in more severe cases, transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (TCU reprogramming) - $10,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving without corresponding acceleration, especially during hard acceleration.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, clunking noises from the suspension, error messages related to the suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected damper.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard, including those related to the ABS, traction control, or tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Can be caused by faulty wheel speed sensors or TPMS sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain. Could involve replacing the battery or fixing a faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Carbon Fiber Trim Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The clear coat on the carbon fiber trim pieces (roof, spoiler, mirror caps) begins to peel or bubble.
  • Solution: Refinishing or replacing the affected carbon fiber components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or crashing of the COMAND infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2,000+ (Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats not moving in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R, while a performance marvel, can suffer from various issues. Engine and transmission problems can be costly, especially turbocharger failures and clutch replacements. Electrical gremlins and suspension issues can also be prevalent. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in the cost of potential repairs when considering purchasing a used 2018 AMG GT R.