2018 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG is a high-performance roadster that blends luxury with thrilling performance. It features a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission. Owners appreciate the SL63’s potent engine, luxurious interior, and retractable hardtop, but some dislike the firm ride, dated infotainment system, and relatively high maintenance costs. Other engine options for the 2018 SL class include the SL450 which has a 3.0L V6 and the SL550 which has a 4.7L V8.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals. Thoroughly clean the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbochargers can experience premature failure or reduced performance due to oil starvation or mechanical issues. Symptoms include a loss of power, whining noises from the turbochargers, and potentially fault codes related to turbocharger boost.
  • Solution: Diagnose the turbocharger failure and replace the affected unit. Address any underlying issues causing the failure, such as oil supply problems.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty fuel injector(s) and replace them. Clean the fuel system and check for any other fuel-related issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ for injector replacement, depending on how many.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifting or jerking, particularly during low-speed maneuvers or downshifts. This can be related to valve body issues or software glitches.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission software update. If the problem persists, the valve body may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for software update, $1,500 - $4,000+ for valve body repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or vibration at highway speeds is a sign of the torque converter locking and unlocking improperly.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. Flush the transmission and replace the fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (ABC - Active Body Control)
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC suspension system is known for potential issues, including leaks in the hydraulic lines, pump failures, and strut malfunctions. Symptoms include uneven ride height, warning messages, and a harsh or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak or failure and replace the affected components. This may involve replacing hydraulic lines, the pump, or individual struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+ depending on the affected component(s).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing excessive battery drain, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace the offending component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, such as freezing, slow response times, or connectivity issues with Bluetooth devices.
  • Solution: Try resetting the system or updating the software. If the problem persists, the system may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Retractable Hardtop Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The retractable hardtop mechanism can experience problems, such as getting stuck, making unusual noises, or failing to operate smoothly. This can be caused by worn seals, hydraulic issues, or sensor malfunctions.
  • Solution: Inspect the seals, hydraulic system, and sensors. Replace any worn or damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG is a potent vehicle, but it comes with potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most common problems relate to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems, with costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the severity and location of the issue. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle’s performance and reliability. The ABC suspension, in particular, can be a source of costly repairs.