2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC63 AMG S

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC63 AMG S is a performance-oriented compact SUV that boasts impressive power and handling. The standard GLC63 AMG models produce slightly less power. The “S” variant features a handcrafted 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission (AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed). Owners often praise the GLC63 AMG S for its exhilarating acceleration, sporty handling, luxurious interior, and aggressive styling. Common complaints often revolve around the firm ride quality, relatively high fuel consumption, and potentially expensive maintenance and repair costs.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 (M177)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. The turbochargers are known to fail prematurely in some cases.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warning. Oil leaks can occur from various locations including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on location and complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, coolant smell. Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-Speed

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifts, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update (TCU reflash) or transmission fluid flush. In more severe cases, valve body replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
  • Solution: In severe cases, the entire transmission needs to be replaced
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, “Vehicle Level Incorrect” warning, compressor running constantly. Air struts or the air compressor may fail.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut(s) or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or bouncy ride, warning lights on the dash related to suspension. Malfunction in the adaptive dampers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, random reboots, unresponsive touchscreen. Problems with the MBUX system.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets. In some cases, hardware replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2,000+ (hardware replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, system malfunctions, warning lights.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting. Parasitic draw from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the source of the drain and repair/replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making noises, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not adjusting properly, motor making noise but seat not moving.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC63 AMG S, while offering exhilarating performance, can be prone to several issues. Engine problems, particularly turbocharger and oil leaks, can be quite costly. Transmission issues can range from minor software glitches to major failures. Suspension problems, especially those involving the air suspension, can also be expensive to address. Electrical gremlins, while not always severe, can be frustrating. Overall, while the GLC63 AMG S is a desirable vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for significant repair bills.