2021 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is a high-performance sedan/wagon known for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. It typically comes equipped with a handcrafted 4.0L V8 biturbo engine producing 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission. Owners often praise its exhilarating performance and opulent features, but some express concerns about its high running costs, complex electronics, and occasional reliability issues.

Engine

4.0L V8 Biturbo

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Potentially caused by oil starvation or bearing failure within the turbocharger unit.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ depending on which turbocharger and if done at the dealer.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, especially around the valve covers and timing chain cover. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, rough idle, stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky gear changes, especially during low-speed driving. Hesitation when shifting.
  • Solution: Software update, valve body replacement, or in severe cases, complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (software update) - $8,000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay between shifting into drive or reverse and the vehicle actually moving.
  • Solution: Fluid level check and top-off, valve body replacement, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid) - $8,000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, compressor running constantly, suspension malfunction warning light. Failure of air struts or the air compressor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut(s) or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per strut or compressor, depending on location and if done at the dealer.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or bouncy ride, inability to change suspension modes, error messages related to the adaptive damping system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s) or module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, requiring frequent jump starts. Often traced to parasitic draw from a faulty module or component that doesn’t properly shut down.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw, battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (battery) - $1,000+ (diagnosis and repair).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $3,000+ (unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light on the dash or other error messages being displayed. Some potential issues could be with the oxygen sensors, camshaft position sensors, or mass airflow sensors.
  • Solution: Replace the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Control Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat adjustments not working, memory seat function not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat control module or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, while offering exceptional performance and luxury, can be prone to certain issues. The engine, particularly the turbochargers and fuel pump, can present costly problems. Transmission, suspension, and electrical glitches also appear as common complaints. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs that can significantly impact ownership costs. While some problems can be addressed with software updates or minor repairs, others may require costly component replacements. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.