2018 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, agile handling, and luxurious interior. It boasts a handcrafted 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 engine producing 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. While other E-Class models offer different engine options, including inline-4 and V6 engines, the E63 AMG S stands out with its exceptional performance capabilities. Some owners appreciate the exhilarating acceleration, comfortable ride, and advanced technology features. Others may find the maintenance costs high, the fuel economy less than ideal, and the ride a bit firm for daily driving on rough roads.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets/Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or oil filter housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, low coolant level
  • Solution: Replace the leaking components, potentially including hoses, radiator, or water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-Speed

• Rough or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts, especially at low speeds. Hesitation when shifting.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission service (fluid and filter change), or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the solution
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine RPMs increase without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Transmission replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions (AMG Ride Control+)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one or more corners, ride height adjustment not working, error message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the air struts, air compressor, or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ per corner or component
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Issues (Infotainment)
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, screen glitches.
  • Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning driver-assistance systems, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car fails to start after sitting for a short period. Electrical systems malfunctioning or shutting off prematurely.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This can include faulty modules, relays, or wiring harnesses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Delamination/Bubbling
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard leather or material starts to separate from the underlying structure, creating bubbles or wrinkles.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S is a performance-oriented vehicle that requires diligent maintenance. The most common issues revolve around the engine (turbocharger failure, oil leaks) and transmission (rough shifting, slippage). Suspension and electrical problems can also arise. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousands of dollars for more significant repairs like turbocharger or transmission replacements. Overall, while it’s an exceptional vehicle, be prepared for potentially high maintenance and repair costs.