2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC63 AMG S

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC63 AMG S is a high-performance compact SUV, packing a handcrafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other GLC models include engines such as the GLC300’s 2.0L Turbocharged I4, and the GLC43 AMG’s 3.0L Turbocharged V6. Most owners praise the GLC63 AMG S for its blistering acceleration, agile handling, luxurious interior, and distinctive AMG styling. Common complaints revolve around the harsh ride quality on rough roads, potential for expensive repairs, and somewhat dated infotainment system compared to newer models.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 (M177)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Internal damage to the turbocharger can cause oil leaks.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and the rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, sweet smell, visible leaks.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak, which could be a hose, radiator, or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$1000+ depending on the location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-Speed

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts, hesitation when shifting, or failure to shift into the correct gear. This may be more apparent at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. Valve body inspection and potential replacement. In severe cases, transmission replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration, noticeable movement of the gear shifter.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, compressor running constantly, “Vehicle Level Too Low” warning light, and rough ride quality. Problems can arise from leaks in the air springs, a failing air compressor, or a faulty ride height sensor.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air springs, replace the air compressor, or replace the ride height sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per air spring, $1,000+ for compressor replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or bouncy ride, failure to adjust damping settings, warning lights related to the suspension system.
  • Solution: Replace faulty dampers or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: System becomes unresponsive, screen freezes, reboots spontaneously.
  • Solution: Software update (if available). In some cases, replacement of the head unit might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings, false alarms, or complete failure of the sensor system.
  • Solution: Replace faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car is difficult to start, needs to be jumped frequently, or the battery dies overnight. Potential causes include parasitic drains from faulty modules or accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. This might involve replacing a faulty module or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close, excessive noise when operating, or leaks.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks. Repair or replace the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail lights or brake lights failing to illuminate, condensation buildup inside the lens.
  • Solution: Replace faulty bulbs or tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat fails to adjust in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC63 AMG S is a potent performance SUV, but potential owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to the turbochargers, oil leaks, and transmission shifting, can be expensive to address. Suspension issues, especially with the air suspension (if equipped), can also lead to costly repairs. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and sensor failures are also potential concerns. While some problems are relatively minor, others can result in significant repair bills, highlighting the importance of thorough pre-purchase inspection and consideration of extended warranty options.