I had a C63 Coupe when they were released years ago for over 3 years. It was a car I used as a daily and never really thrashed it. I have been looking to buy a used one, as they are cheap V8’s in the world of EV’s and Hybrids. It will probably be a base car, and hopefully with a LSD. If it doesn’t have an LSD will have a Quaife fitted. Picture below of the previous car and a couple of period videos.
I reviewed the idea of purchasing a C63 and these are the conclusions after reviewing are listed below.
The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG W204 is not generally considered a highly reliable car. While its 6.2L naturally aspirated V8 (M156) is legendary for performance and sound, it has several well-documented issues that can lead to expensive repairs if not properly maintained.
⚡ Reliability Overview
- Performance vs. reliability trade-off: The W204 C63 (2008–2014) was engineered for raw performance, not longevity. Owners praise its driving experience but caution that upkeep is costly.
- Post-2011 models improved: Early cars (2008–2010) suffered from head bolt failures in the M156 engine. Mercedes redesigned the bolts in 2011, making later cars more dependable.
🔧 Common Problems
- Head bolt failure (pre-2011): Corrosion and stretching led to coolant mixing with oil, causing catastrophic engine damage.
- Oil leaks: Valve cover gaskets and other seals often need replacement every 60–80k miles.
- Camshaft wear: Intake camshafts can wear prematurely, requiring costly replacements.
- Exhaust manifold corrosion: Some manifolds corrode, causing air leaks and rough idle.
- PCV valve & injectors: Failures around 80–100k miles are common.
- General AMG maintenance: Frequent fluid flushes, shorter oil change intervals (every 5k miles), and high-performance tires are recommended.
💰 Ownership Costs
- Maintenance is expensive: Even routine servicing costs more than average German sedans.
- Repairs can be wallet-draining: Engine rebuilds from head bolt failure or camshaft wear can run into thousands.
- DIY helps: Enthusiasts who are mechanically skilled can mitigate costs, but parts are still pricey.
✅ Verdict
The W204 C63 AMG is viewed as a thrilling but high-maintenance car. Reliability is average at best compared to mainstream vehicles, but later models (2011+) are significantly safer bets thanks to the head bolt fix. If properly maintained and inspected before purchase, it can be a rewarding ownership experience—but expect higher costs and occasional headaches.
