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2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S is a performance sedan, coupe, and convertible known for its powerful engine and luxurious features. The C63 AMG S comes standard with a handcrafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with an AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed automatic transmission. Drivers appreciate the car’s aggressive styling, responsive handling, and exhilarating acceleration. However, some common complaints include relatively firm ride quality, higher running costs, and the potential for electronic gremlins.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 (M177)

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or internal wear.
    • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warning. Often occurs around the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or turbocharger oil lines.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant warning, overheating, sweet smell from the engine bay, visible coolant leak. Prone to leaking from the coolant reservoir.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG Speedshift MCT 9-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting/Jerking
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, especially at lower speeds. May be accompanied by a clunking noise. Sometimes most noticeable when slowing down to a stop
    • Solution: Software updates, transmission service (fluid and filter change), or valve body replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and required repair.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Delayed Engagement
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay between shifting into gear and the car moving, especially from Park or Neutral.
    • Solution: Transmission service (fluid and filter change), or valve body replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and required repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Malfunctions (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Car sitting unevenly, ride height not adjusting properly, suspension warning lights, compressor failure.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty components (air struts, compressor, valve block).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ depending on the component.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights (ABS, traction control, TPMS), malfunctioning driver-assistance features.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Rattling/Squeaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Annoying noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or center console, especially on rough roads.
    • Solution: Identifying the source of the noise and tightening or replacing loose components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S is a performance vehicle that offers a thrilling driving experience, but it is also prone to some issues. The most common problems relate to the engine (turbocharger failure, oil leaks), transmission (harsh shifting), suspension, and electrical system. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for major repairs such as turbocharger or air suspension replacement. While most of the issues are not major enough to be considered extremely severe, the costs to repair them can be high depending on the issue. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their ownership costs.

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