2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is a performance sedan/coupe/convertible known for its powerful engine and sporty driving dynamics. It comes equipped with a handcrafted 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 469 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in the base C63, and 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque in the C63 S. Both variants utilize a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT transmission. Owners often praise its exhilarating acceleration, aggressive styling, and luxurious interior. Common criticisms include its firm ride, relatively high fuel consumption, and potential for costly maintenance.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 (M177)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. The turbochargers can experience premature wear or failure, potentially due to oil starvation or internal component defects.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the ground, burning oil smell. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG Speedshift MCT

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky gear changes, particularly at lower speeds. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, valve body replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay between shifting into drive or reverse and the car actually moving.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, ride height issues, compressor not engaging or running constantly, error messages on the dashboard. The air suspension system, if equipped, can suffer from leaks in the air struts or failures of the air compressor.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air strut or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $2,000+ for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or displaying errors. The COMAND infotainment system can be prone to glitches and software issues.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the COMAND unit if a hardware failure occurs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car. Potential causes include faulty electronic modules, leaving lights on, or a failing battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic drain, replace the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning sensors such as Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Park Distance Control sensors, and Adaptive Headlight Sensors
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Carbon Fiber Trim Delamination (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Separation of the layers of the carbon fiber trim pieces, creating a cloudy or uneven appearance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Creaking/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying noises emanating from the dashboard, especially when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the source of the noise. This may involve adding felt tape or other padding.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty adjusting seat position, unusual noises when adjusting seats.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, while offering exhilarating performance, has a range of potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly with turbocharger failure and oil leaks, can be costly. Transmission issues can lead to rough shifting. Electrical gremlins and suspension problems can also arise. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection done and consider these potential issues when evaluating ownership costs.