W205 C63S - Buyers Advice?
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Newbie
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 3
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C63 S
W205 C63S - Buyers Advice?
New to MB - past 11 cars have been BMW M cars and looking for a V8 that is not 10+ years old like e90. I have done a ton of initial investigation into W205 and probably looking for something in the mid 50's for price with 40-60k on the clock. Aside from regular maintenance history, any common issues or things to look out for when buying? I know with most cars, the first 1-2 years before a refresh can have issues being new and all. Is this the same with W205 - as in avoid the edition 1 cars and look at 2017+ only?
Most of the research I've done shows that MY 15+ seem reliable overall - nothing like common issues such as rod bearing or throttle actuator problems that I came from with the e9x M3. From everything I can see, the build quality and overall package seems FAR superior to anything BMW has been putting out...
Appreciate any knowledge and advice - thank you in advance!
-Bryan
Most of the research I've done shows that MY 15+ seem reliable overall - nothing like common issues such as rod bearing or throttle actuator problems that I came from with the e9x M3. From everything I can see, the build quality and overall package seems FAR superior to anything BMW has been putting out...
Appreciate any knowledge and advice - thank you in advance!
-Bryan
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 1,511
Likes: 424
From: Florida
AMG C63s
I have 18' PFL and I am not aware of any common major issues. Here and there you hear about some problems but most are not related to the core engine/drivetrain reliability. I had a 435i and know what you mean with problems...
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 551
Likes: 133
From: Miami, Florida
W205 C63 AMG Coupe
I have a 2017 Coupe and it has been a lot more reliable than the 2009 335i I had before (I keep cars for a long time). I am still bone stock but aside from one misfire that was due to a failed plug, all I have had to do is regular maintenance (i.e. oil changes) and put gas in it. Coming from a 335i that had me constantly battling misfires and leaking fuel injectors, the C63 has been a pleasure to own.
Edit to add: My advice would be to find the lowest mileage, highest optioned car in your price range, check its service history to make sure it was properly maintained and - assuming it checks out - buy it.
Edit to add: My advice would be to find the lowest mileage, highest optioned car in your price range, check its service history to make sure it was properly maintained and - assuming it checks out - buy it.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 279
Likes: 63
From: Long Island NY
c63s
I have a 2016 with 45k miles. So far no major issues. Had an issue with Rear Electronic differential error code but the issue was fixed under warranty at the time. Seems like a common issue with this car. They had to replace the rear differential from what I remembered, MB ordered the parts from Germany as no one had the part in US.
Also I would stay away from cars that had multiple owners like 4 or more. Ideally two or one owner is good. At 45k miles to 55k might require some maintenance ie spark plugs, transmission oil change, brakes (disc and pads), all the filters, probably forgetting some other stuff.
Overall not too bad and worth it in my opinion.
Also I would stay away from cars that had multiple owners like 4 or more. Ideally two or one owner is good. At 45k miles to 55k might require some maintenance ie spark plugs, transmission oil change, brakes (disc and pads), all the filters, probably forgetting some other stuff.
Overall not too bad and worth it in my opinion.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 419
Likes: 58
C63s AMG
+1.
Mine is a MY15 S with 39k miles and so far it’s been bullet proof. Outside of the regular maintenance stuff, never had anything break on me (knock on wood).
I say it doesn’t matter which MY you go with, make sure you get it inspected, review service records, and check it’s carfax and autocheck. If all of those check out, and you like the spec and options then go for it.
Mine is a MY15 S with 39k miles and so far it’s been bullet proof. Outside of the regular maintenance stuff, never had anything break on me (knock on wood).
I say it doesn’t matter which MY you go with, make sure you get it inspected, review service records, and check it’s carfax and autocheck. If all of those check out, and you like the spec and options then go for it.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 3
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C63 S
Thanks everyone for the feedback so far! I know I definitely want the sport seats and performance exhaust option (is the later stock with C63 S?) - really want white with the black trim package and the 19" forged cross spoke in matte black wheels. The quilted interior on the edition 1 are nice - just not 100% on the exterior red accents and decals...so many of these have 4 owners it seems, which is strange. I know how it was with an M car though...new owners get a sportscar and hammer on it, so fewer owners is always optimal.
So my research has led to AMG not having a heated steering wheel option...which is not end of world, as I will likely replace with a 2020 CKM style aftermarket steering wheel anyway. Seems the rear power sunshade option is really hard to find as well? I've only seen a handful of cars with the button for the rear shade below the exhuast button on the console...havent seen anything with manual rear door shades however. Nice for the kids...and I just think the 'peasant blockers' add a nice touch to begin with. Still cant get over how amazing the performance seats are...they look like they're almost on level with the porsche bucket seats.
So my research has led to AMG not having a heated steering wheel option...which is not end of world, as I will likely replace with a 2020 CKM style aftermarket steering wheel anyway. Seems the rear power sunshade option is really hard to find as well? I've only seen a handful of cars with the button for the rear shade below the exhuast button on the console...havent seen anything with manual rear door shades however. Nice for the kids...and I just think the 'peasant blockers' add a nice touch to begin with. Still cant get over how amazing the performance seats are...they look like they're almost on level with the porsche bucket seats.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 11,398
Likes: 5,324
From: San Francisco Bay Area
2019 C63CS
Thanks everyone for the feedback so far! I know I definitely want the sport seats and performance exhaust option (is the later stock with C63 S?) - really want white with the black trim package and the 19" forged cross spoke in matte black wheels. The quilted interior on the edition 1 are nice - just not 100% on the exterior red accents and decals...so many of these have 4 owners it seems, which is strange. I know how it was with an M car though...new owners get a sportscar and hammer on it, so fewer owners is always optimal.
So my research has led to AMG not having a heated steering wheel option...which is not end of world, as I will likely replace with a 2020 CKM style aftermarket steering wheel anyway. Seems the rear power sunshade option is really hard to find as well? I've only seen a handful of cars with the button for the rear shade below the exhuast button on the console...havent seen anything with manual rear door shades however. Nice for the kids...and I just think the 'peasant blockers' add a nice touch to begin with. Still cant get over how amazing the performance seats are...they look like they're almost on level with the porsche bucket seats.
So my research has led to AMG not having a heated steering wheel option...which is not end of world, as I will likely replace with a 2020 CKM style aftermarket steering wheel anyway. Seems the rear power sunshade option is really hard to find as well? I've only seen a handful of cars with the button for the rear shade below the exhuast button on the console...havent seen anything with manual rear door shades however. Nice for the kids...and I just think the 'peasant blockers' add a nice touch to begin with. Still cant get over how amazing the performance seats are...they look like they're almost on level with the porsche bucket seats.
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Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 427
Likes: 29
From: BH, MI
C63S past: E90 M3 6M, w211 E55
Coming from an E90 M3 Manual, this car is a night and day difference so far in terms of reliability. Of course, I'm comparing this to a car that threw a rod bearing, and I had to both replace the engine, and put VAC bearings in it as preventative after 500 miles of ownership. Also had to do both throttle actuators, along with blown EDC shocks, etc...
For the first year of ownership on the AMG, I have replaced a $10 expansion tank cap as the o-ring was worn, causing the tank to spill out coolant.
For the first year of ownership on the AMG, I have replaced a $10 expansion tank cap as the o-ring was worn, causing the tank to spill out coolant.
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2021
Posts: 63
Likes: 9
From: Milwaukee, WI
C63S AMG Edition 1
I've owned a few BMW's over the years, most recently an E60 M5. When it was running it was great! 
My 2015 C63S has ~ 33k on it and no issues outside of normal maintenance. The car does eat brakes which can get a little pricey if you don't do it yourself. If you are inclined to take your car in for service I would find a good, local independent shop that specializes in MB, BMW, Audi etc. The stealerships are often overpriced and IMO don't always have the knowledge level that you'd expect on M177 engine.
My 2015 C63S has ~ 33k on it and no issues outside of normal maintenance. The car does eat brakes which can get a little pricey if you don't do it yourself. If you are inclined to take your car in for service I would find a good, local independent shop that specializes in MB, BMW, Audi etc. The stealerships are often overpriced and IMO don't always have the knowledge level that you'd expect on M177 engine.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 595
Likes: 96
From: NYC area
2019 C63S Coupe
New to MB - past 11 cars have been BMW M cars and looking for a V8 that is not 10+ years old like e90. I have done a ton of initial investigation into W205 and probably looking for something in the mid 50's for price with 40-60k on the clock. Aside from regular maintenance history, any common issues or things to look out for when buying? I know with most cars, the first 1-2 years before a refresh can have issues being new and all. Is this the same with W205 - as in avoid the edition 1 cars and look at 2017+ only?
Most of the research I've done shows that MY 15+ seem reliable overall - nothing like common issues such as rod bearing or throttle actuator problems that I came from with the e9x M3. From everything I can see, the build quality and overall package seems FAR superior to anything BMW has been putting out...
Appreciate any knowledge and advice - thank you in advance!
-Bryan
Most of the research I've done shows that MY 15+ seem reliable overall - nothing like common issues such as rod bearing or throttle actuator problems that I came from with the e9x M3. From everything I can see, the build quality and overall package seems FAR superior to anything BMW has been putting out...
Appreciate any knowledge and advice - thank you in advance!
-Bryan
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,632
Likes: 150
C63s Cabriolet, BMW M4, Civic
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 295
Likes: 53
From: Reno, NV
2015 C63 AMG S Edition 1, 2021 GLS63, 2020 McLaren 600LT Spider
My 15 Edition 1 has been flawless and that includes many many track days--except for things that I have cause of course! See my posts under the Thunderhill track days thread.
I love this car and you will too.
Kurt
I love this car and you will too.
Kurt
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 11,398
Likes: 5,324
From: San Francisco Bay Area
2019 C63CS
Abused? No. Driven like it's meant to be? Yes. Changed my rears just shy of 18k, and fronts just shy of 19k. 35k miles on original pads? That car isn't really being driven. Must be lots of highway driving mostly with no use of the brakes?
Last edited by superswiss; Feb 1, 2022 at 10:39 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,632
Likes: 150
C63s Cabriolet, BMW M4, Civic
My car is driven mostly city and back roads and I use paddle shifter a lot to down shift when slowing down.
I swear on my kid life. My Slk55 with AMG performance package with 175k miles and still on original rotors.
Last edited by Klinh; Feb 1, 2022 at 10:58 PM.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 11,398
Likes: 5,324
From: San Francisco Bay Area
2019 C63CS
Changed pads is normal but changed front rotor at 17k mikes. You don’t think that not abused?
My car is driven mostly city and back roads and I use paddle shifter a lot to down shift when slowing down.
I swear on my kid life. My Slk55 with AMG performance package with 175k miles and still on original rotors.
My car is driven mostly city and back roads and I use paddle shifter a lot to down shift when slowing down.
I swear on my kid life. My Slk55 with AMG performance package with 175k miles and still on original rotors.
Last edited by superswiss; Feb 2, 2022 at 04:25 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 427
Likes: 29
From: BH, MI
C63S past: E90 M3 6M, w211 E55
Thanks everyone for the feedback so far! I know I definitely want the sport seats and performance exhaust option (is the later stock with C63 S?) - really want white with the black trim package and the 19" forged cross spoke in matte black wheels. The quilted interior on the edition 1 are nice - just not 100% on the exterior red accents and decals...so many of these have 4 owners it seems, which is strange. I know how it was with an M car though...new owners get a sportscar and hammer on it, so fewer owners is always optimal.
So my research has led to AMG not having a heated steering wheel option...which is not end of world, as I will likely replace with a 2020 CKM style aftermarket steering wheel anyway. Seems the rear power sunshade option is really hard to find as well? I've only seen a handful of cars with the button for the rear shade below the exhuast button on the console...havent seen anything with manual rear door shades however. Nice for the kids...and I just think the 'peasant blockers' add a nice touch to begin with. Still cant get over how amazing the performance seats are...they look like they're almost on level with the porsche bucket seats.
So my research has led to AMG not having a heated steering wheel option...which is not end of world, as I will likely replace with a 2020 CKM style aftermarket steering wheel anyway. Seems the rear power sunshade option is really hard to find as well? I've only seen a handful of cars with the button for the rear shade below the exhuast button on the console...havent seen anything with manual rear door shades however. Nice for the kids...and I just think the 'peasant blockers' add a nice touch to begin with. Still cant get over how amazing the performance seats are...they look like they're almost on level with the porsche bucket seats.
On my way to pick up the car before a 9 hr drive home, my friend calmed me down, as he's done the gold rush rally in the performance seats in an E63S wagon. He said it's the most comfortable hes been in a long distance drive ever.
Member
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 102
Likes: 12
c63 Coupe, GLC63
Wasn't a fan of the performance seats for everyday driving. They are great on the track (all the AMGs we drove on road atlanta and lime rock had performance seats) but i couldn't imagine myself sitting in these seats from stop light to stop light. They do look amazing however. I prefer the upgraded leather/nappa non performance seats for everyday driving comfort.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 11,398
Likes: 5,324
From: San Francisco Bay Area
2019 C63CS
Wasn't a fan of the performance seats for everyday driving. They are great on the track (all the AMGs we drove on road atlanta and lime rock had performance seats) but i couldn't imagine myself sitting in these seats from stop light to stop light. They do look amazing however. I prefer the upgraded leather/nappa non performance seats for everyday driving comfort.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 427
Likes: 29
From: BH, MI
C63S past: E90 M3 6M, w211 E55
When you first sit in them, or for shorter periods, the performance seats feel stiff and not forgiving. It forces your body into a particular posture and your body essentially gives to the support the seat is design for.
I was worried in my first hour or two driving, waiting for pain and numb spots to show up, but they never did. I just kept going, where there was zero spots in the seat that were giving any issues. I didn't need to lean on one side of my bottom, or lift up my legs. hour 8 was like hour 2 in my posture.
The opposite for plush seats i've seen - when you first sit in them, they are very comfortable, and you feel you can sit on them indefinitely. After a few hours, you start to get fidgety, shifting around, ultimately feeling restless as your bottom or side thighs get a bit numb. They almost feel like you're sitting on a hammock, where the seat pushes up on your outer thighs while you sink in.
I was hugely skeptical of the performance seats, but now, I don't see any negatives, besides the higher effort of getting in and out of the seat. Wider backs may have a bit more issues with the more narrow torso area.
I was worried in my first hour or two driving, waiting for pain and numb spots to show up, but they never did. I just kept going, where there was zero spots in the seat that were giving any issues. I didn't need to lean on one side of my bottom, or lift up my legs. hour 8 was like hour 2 in my posture.
The opposite for plush seats i've seen - when you first sit in them, they are very comfortable, and you feel you can sit on them indefinitely. After a few hours, you start to get fidgety, shifting around, ultimately feeling restless as your bottom or side thighs get a bit numb. They almost feel like you're sitting on a hammock, where the seat pushes up on your outer thighs while you sink in.
I was hugely skeptical of the performance seats, but now, I don't see any negatives, besides the higher effort of getting in and out of the seat. Wider backs may have a bit more issues with the more narrow torso area.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 11,398
Likes: 5,324
From: San Francisco Bay Area
2019 C63CS
When you first sit in them, or for shorter periods, the performance seats feel stiff and not forgiving. It forces your body into a particular posture and your body essentially gives to the support the seat is design for.
I was worried in my first hour or two driving, waiting for pain and numb spots to show up, but they never did. I just kept going, where there was zero spots in the seat that were giving any issues. I didn't need to lean on one side of my bottom, or lift up my legs. hour 8 was like hour 2 in my posture.
The opposite for plush seats i've seen - when you first sit in them, they are very comfortable, and you feel you can sit on them indefinitely. After a few hours, you start to get fidgety, shifting around, ultimately feeling restless as your bottom or side thighs get a bit numb. They almost feel like you're sitting on a hammock, where the seat pushes up on your outer thighs while you sink in.
I was hugely skeptical of the performance seats, but now, I don't see any negatives, besides the higher effort of getting in and out of the seat. Wider backs may have a bit more issues with the more narrow torso area.
I was worried in my first hour or two driving, waiting for pain and numb spots to show up, but they never did. I just kept going, where there was zero spots in the seat that were giving any issues. I didn't need to lean on one side of my bottom, or lift up my legs. hour 8 was like hour 2 in my posture.
The opposite for plush seats i've seen - when you first sit in them, they are very comfortable, and you feel you can sit on them indefinitely. After a few hours, you start to get fidgety, shifting around, ultimately feeling restless as your bottom or side thighs get a bit numb. They almost feel like you're sitting on a hammock, where the seat pushes up on your outer thighs while you sink in.
I was hugely skeptical of the performance seats, but now, I don't see any negatives, besides the higher effort of getting in and out of the seat. Wider backs may have a bit more issues with the more narrow torso area.
Member
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 132
Likes: 37
From: Just outside of DC
2019 C63S Selenite Grey, 2018 911 Turbo, Guards Red
I remember when I was buying so many folks were worried about the seats. As superswiss has stated they take time to break in. They start very firm, but as they wear they become comfortable. I'm typically driving 2+ hours in mine on weekends and I have zero issues. The comfort is better than my 18 way seats in my 911 on extended drives. I think the seats are must if you are looking to buy.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 308
Likes: 71
From: Charlotte, NC
17 C63S Coupe PTG1000
I come from both an e90 M3 and e92 M3 since 2014, moving to my '17 Coupe this past September. I am HYPER well aware of what you mean (and expect) by maintenance. So far (I'm at 12k miles, bought at 8700 miles), there has been little to no maintenance. There are no major preventative maintenance items like the e9x had. Rod bearings (did 2 sets), throttle body actuators (did 2 sets), driveshaft, replaced a DCT unit etc etc. Just a brutal amount of maintenance. I hope I don't eat my words, but you're moving to a much more reliable platform. I do miss the sound and feel of the S65 and the e9x platform - much better steering feel and connection to the road than the C63. The C63 is significantly faster in a straight line, gobs more torque and has a great sound. Not better or worse than the S65 - just different.
It will ultimately boil down to the mileage of the car you choose, what service has been done, parts already replaced etc.
Your biggest items on the C63 will likely be: rotors & pads, spark plugs and TIRES - notice that these are all consumables, unlike the e9x.
It will ultimately boil down to the mileage of the car you choose, what service has been done, parts already replaced etc.
Your biggest items on the C63 will likely be: rotors & pads, spark plugs and TIRES - notice that these are all consumables, unlike the e9x.
Last edited by noremaC; Feb 4, 2022 at 11:03 AM.
