2018 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG

Introduction

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0L V12 engine that produces 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. The S65 AMG is known for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. However, it is not without its issues.

Engine

• V12 Engine

  • Oil Leaks: Leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including the valve covers, oil pan, and rear main seal.
    • Symptoms: Visible oil stains under the vehicle, low oil levels on the dipstick.
    • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Timing Chain Failure: The timing chain can fail prematurely in some engines.
    • Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, unusual noises.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+
  • Fuel Injector Failure: Fuel injectors can fail and cause engine performance issues.
    • Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, reduced fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per injector

Transmission

• 7-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Slipping or Jerking: The transmission may slip or jerk during gear changes.
    • Symptoms: Vehicle acceleration is hesitant, rough shifting.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Fluid Leaks: Transmission fluid leaks can occur from various seals or lines.
    • Symptoms: Visible transmission fluid stains under the vehicle, low fluid levels.
    • Solution: Replace leaking seals or lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension: The air suspension system can experience issues such as leaks or compressor failure.
  • Symptoms: Vehicle lowering unevenly, reduced ride height, noise from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace leaking components or compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The S65 AMG has been known to experience battery drain issues due to parasitic electrical draws.
  • Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical faults.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Infotainment System Glitches: The infotainment system may experience glitches, freezes, or connectivity issues.
  • Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive buttons, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates, module replacements.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V578000

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation: The headlights may experience condensation buildup inside the lens.
  • Symptoms: Moisture inside the headlight assembly.
  • Solution: Replace headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction: The climate control system may malfunction, leading to insufficient heating or cooling.
  • Symptoms: Inconsistent cabin temperature, unable to regulate airflow.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical or mechanical issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Seat Adjuster Failure: The seat adjustment motors may fail, preventing proper adjustment of the seats.
  • Symptoms: Seats unable to move or adjust properly.
  • Solution: Replace faulty seat adjusters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per seat

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is a powerful and luxurious vehicle, but it is not without its issues. Some of the more common problems include engine oil leaks, timing chain failure, transmission issues, suspension leaks, battery drain, infotainment system glitches, and climate control malfunctions. The cost of these repairs can be significant, costing from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. However, the S65 AMG remains a desirable vehicle for those who value its performance, comfort, and exclusivity.