2012 — 2016
5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo (M157) - GL 63 AMG High Performance
Petrol
Gently accelerate and decelerate to listen for any metallic rattling from the turbos, as the M157 engines can occasionally experience wastegate linkage wear over time.
Cycle through the AIRMATIC suspension height settings while the car is parked; observe if the compressor sounds strained or if the vehicle takes an unusually long time to level out.
Monitor the coolant temperature gauge during your drive; it is helpful to ensure the engine reaches operating temperature steadily without fluctuating, as these cooling systems are quite complex.
While driving at low speeds, steer from lock to lock to check for any 'clunking' from the front suspension bushings or ball joints, which are known to be items that require regular inspection on these heavy SUVs.
Consider a full inspection of the secondary air injection system and carbon cleaning for the intake ports.
It is often a good time to evaluate the health of the engine mounts and transmission mount, as the torque from the V8 can accelerate their wear.
Plan for a preventative check of the coolant hoses and the auxiliary water pump, as rubber components may start to show their age.
Ensure the engine oil is changed every 10,000km or annually, as the twin-turbo setup is sensitive to oil quality.
Keep a close eye on the transmission fluid service intervals to maintain smooth gear changes.
Check the brake rotors and pads regularly, noting that the AMG performance setup is high-performance and naturally wears faster than standard units.
Verify that the battery is healthy, as these vehicles rely heavily on electronic modules that can act up if voltage is inconsistent.
Inspect the panoramic sunroof seals and drains annually to prevent any potential water ingress into the cabin.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
If the air struts or compressor need attention in the future, it is wise to budget for this as part of long-term ownership, as these components work hard to support the GL63's weight.
Depending on the car's history, you might eventually need to budget for professional turbo servicing or cleaning, which is a specialized job for these high-performance engines.
When the time comes to replace the discs and pads, it is worth noting that they are high-performance specific items, which is reflected in the parts pricing.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer