Gle63 mpg

[Will]

Didn’t know about them,I thought they where pretty bulletproof,what are the weaknesses ?

My comment was influenced by my memory of the linked thread (below). Not sure if the engine you have in mind is the NA or turbo but both have known problems - head studs for the NA, internal weaknesses on re-mapped turbos. One of them I think has cam chain issues.
The linked thread is a long one and I've not read right through it but read enough to get the impression that AMG V8 purchasing has to be done with eyes wide open.
FWIW, I run an absurdly thirsty V8 SUV. I tolerate its thirst because on the whole it is reliable (in a never-leave-me-stranded sort of way), easy to work on with relatively cheap parts, and has moderate VED and insurance costs. I chose this over diesel because the risk of a big diesel bill wasn't acceptable to me. That set of priorities kinda excludes a 63 V8 for me. Your priorities are your own but be aware of the potential costs and - reluctant as I am to say this - what abuse such an engine may have endured with its previous owners.

S

Thread 'Thinking of buying this...any feedback, pointers please'

Jan 27, 2025

After owning my W212 for 8 years I have decided to give in to the V8 itch and have seen this:
It has had 2 owners with full MB history and is currently on 84k.
Aside from the rear subframe / corroded brake pipes etc what should I be looking for?
Any potential big bills for common issues?
This will be my daily driver - covering around 15-20k per year.
I intend to hang onto it for a while too.
Can do DIY stuff such as oil changes and brakes discs/pads.
Mot history is good with no prior issues
Thanks

• such01
• Replies: 195
• Forum: AMG Lounge

• 

The GLE63 doesn’t have a NA engine, no issue with head bolts (Bellow is thinking of the older M156)

Timing chain issues won’t affect it either (that was very early M157s, before the GLE was made)

On the whole they’re strong and powerful engines. Some examples may have had a chequered past and are best avoided. Careless tuning can bend con rods and stuff but on the whole they’re fine

 

[TrueSpirit]

Didn’t know about them,I thought they where pretty bulletproof,what are the weaknesses ?

Soft cylinder walls, pistons that sometimes bend (usually on tuned engines) . A 2016 / 17 won't have timing chain issues. I'd recommend finding the lowest mileage example and if there is any evidence of being tuned previously, I'd avoid those ones. There's a couple of preventative maintenance mods I've seen on the net too. I had my 5.5 with 15k miles to 40k miles and it was problem free. Only had an oxygen sensor check engine light come 2 or 3 times during the 3.5 year ownership.

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

There’s always a risk with any engine, and an expensive engine from an expensive car will be expensive to repair if there is a problem.

I’d say that the M157 - especially later examples like in the GLE - is relatively low risk. Issues are possible but not probable.

It’s likely that the resulting repairs be more expensive than a less expensive engine in a less expensive car, so what you’d expect.

Buy very well maintained example which hasn’t been tinkered with - the promise of huge power and torque tempts some - and you’ll be fine.

Probably.