2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan that combines opulent features with a potent engine. While the S-Class is generally known for its reliability, the AMG variant can present specific issues. The S63 is equipped with a handcrafted 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 603 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 9-speed automatic transmission (AMG Speedshift MCT 9G). Owners often praise its luxurious interior, powerful performance, and advanced technology, but some common complaints revolve around electronic glitches, air suspension problems, and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Potential oil leaks from the turbocharger seals.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger. Inspect oil lines for blockage and replace if needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level warning.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the leak (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, oil filter housing, turbocharger lines). Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency, reduced engine performance, rattling noises from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ per converter (typically requires two).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG Speedshift MCT 9G

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable harshness or jerking during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). If the issue persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) to $5,000+ (transmission rebuild).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay between shifting into Drive or Reverse and the vehicle actually moving.
  • Solution: Checking transmission fluid level and condition. Performing a transmission flush. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) to $5,000+ (transmission rebuild).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (AIRMATIC)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging or uneven ride height, “Vehicle Too Low” warning message, failure to adjust ride height. Noises from the air compressor.
  • Solution: Identifying the leaking air strut(s) or air spring(s) and replacing them. Replacing the air compressor or valve block if faulty. Checking and repairing air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per air strut. Air compressor replacement can range from $800 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car takes a long time to raise, or does not raise at all. Hear a loud, sustained noise from the compressor.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues (MBUX)
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, lagging, or crashing. Bluetooth connectivity problems. Navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software update. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment module may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $1,500+ (module replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent jump starts needed, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Testing the battery and charging system. Identifying parasitic drain sources (faulty modules, improperly installed aftermarket accessories). Repairing or replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control systems. Error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the faulty sensor(s) and replacing them. Calibrating the system after replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, excessive noise during operation, water leaks.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks and mechanism. Replacing damaged components (motor, cables, seals).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+, depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, while luxurious and powerful, has potential issues owners should be aware of. The engine can suffer from turbocharger and catalytic converter failures, leading to expensive repairs. The transmission may experience harsh shifting or delayed engagement, potentially requiring costly fixes. Air suspension problems are common, with issues affecting air struts and compressors. Electrical glitches in the infotainment system and sensor malfunctions can also occur. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and the cost to fix can vary significantly, potentially reaching several thousand dollars for more complex repairs. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection done at a reputable shop.