2018 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG is a high-performance SUV known for its ruggedness, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. The sole engine option for this model year is a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 563 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. People often praise the G63 for its iconic styling, off-road capabilities, and impressive performance, while common complaints include its high price tag, poor fuel economy, and somewhat dated interior design compared to more modern SUVs.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, reduced power, check engine light. Often caused by oil starvation or bearing failure within the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger(s). It is often recommended to replace both turbos at the same time to ensure even performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+ (depending on if one or both turbos are replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots on the ground, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and turbocharger oil lines.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light - Various Causes
  • Description/Symptoms: Illuminated check engine light on the dashboard, potentially accompanied by drivability issues. Causes can range from minor sensor failures to more significant engine problems. Requires diagnostic scanning to determine the root cause.
  • Solution: Diagnosis using an OBDII scanner, followed by repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. Can also present as hesitation during acceleration. Often attributed to worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or, in severe cases, a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and the chosen repair).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly when accelerating from a stop. May also exhibit slipping or erratic RPM fluctuations.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, “Suspension Fault” warning message on the dashboard, failure to raise or lower suspension height. Usually caused by leaks in the air struts, a failing air compressor, or faulty level sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s), air compressor, or faulty level sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ per strut (depending on location and whether it’s OEM or aftermarket), $800 - $2,000 for the air compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Suspension Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can indicate worn bushings, ball joints, or other suspension components.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ (depending on the components needing replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, crashing, or failing to respond to inputs. May also experience Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors, or audio glitches.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit (in severe cases).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $2,000+ (depending on whether a software update resolves the issue or the unit needs replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning driver assistance features (e.g., blind spot monitoring, parking sensors), incorrect readings on the dashboard, or warning lights illuminated.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific sensor failure, followed by replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor (depending on the type and location of the sensor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to lock or unlock one or more doors using the remote or interior switches.
  • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats failing to adjust properly, motors making grinding noises, or limited range of motion.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motors or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Creaking/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying noises emanating from the dashboard area, particularly when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the noise using felt tape, foam padding, or other sound-dampening materials.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the labor involved in accessing the source of the noise).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, while a desirable vehicle, can suffer from some notable issues. The most significant potential problems revolve around the engine (turbocharger failures and oil leaks), transmission (rough shifting), and air suspension (leaks and malfunctions). Electrical glitches with the COMAND system and sensor failures are also relatively common. The cost of repairing these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major repairs like turbocharger or suspension replacements. Owners should be diligent with maintenance and address any unusual symptoms promptly to mitigate potential problems.