2020 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S is a high-performance variant of the E-Class sedan, known for its powerful engine and luxurious features. It’s equipped with a handcrafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. While other E-Class models offer different engines (like the E350’s 2.0L turbo-4 or the E450’s 3.0L turbo inline-6), the E63 S is exclusively equipped with the aforementioned V8. All E63 models use the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners praise the E63 S for its exhilarating performance, comfortable ride, and high-quality interior. Some common criticisms include the high price tag, potentially costly maintenance, and occasional complexity of the infotainment system.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, reduced power, check engine light. Some owners have reported premature turbo failure.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warnings. Potential leak points include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ (depending on the location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation when shifting.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission service (fluid and filter change). In some cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity and required repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay when shifting from Park or Neutral into Drive or Reverse.
  • Solution: Transmission software recalibration, fluid level check. In severe cases, internal transmission repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, error messages on the dashboard related to the air suspension, compressor running excessively.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The MBUX infotainment system freezes, restarts unexpectedly, or exhibits lag.
  • Solution: Software update. In some cases, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+ (if software update does not fix, can be much higher)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms or non-functional sensors related to parking assist, blind spot monitoring, or other driver-assistance systems.
  • Solution: Sensor replacement. Check wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Creaks and Rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying creaking or rattling noises emanating from the dashboard area, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating the source of the noise and applying felt tape or other sound-deadening materials.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on how difficult it is to locate and fix)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S, while offering exhilarating performance, can be prone to some issues that can lead to high maintenance costs. The most concerning issues revolve around the engine (turbocharger failure, oil leaks), the transmission (rough shifting, delayed engagement), the suspension (air suspension failures), and the electrical system (infotainment glitches, sensor malfunctions). While some issues can be addressed with software updates or minor repairs, others may require costly component replacements. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential expenses and thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s history before purchasing.