stealthlogics

It has under 40k miles is there anything I should look for.
It looks clean. He is asking 30k that seems like a good price.
This is the motor that had the head bolt problems correct me f I'm wrong.

Mark out West

The more service history the seller presents, the better. Check everything for correct function. And yes, the M156 does exhibit problems with the head bolts and camshaft lobe wear. I keep an eye on mine with an oil analysis every change. So far, tight as a drum.

BlownV8

If you can afford it, go with a bi-turbo V8 or bi-turbo V12 model. The M156 is a ticking time bomb. Some blow up while others are fine. Caveat emptor!

Mark out West

Early versions of the M157 also had issues with timing chain stretching and cam adjuster leakdowns. Add in the turbos, intercooler, and direct injection high pressure pump and you have a lot more to go wrong. Not saying the M156 is superior, just a lot simpler. And it's the "true" AMG engine, designed from the group up by AMG and not some derivative of an existing MB engine.

In short, if I had a comprehensive warranty, I'd opt for the M157. If you're a DIYer, the M156 is doable. And don't get me started with ABC.

MBZFAN55

I am on my 2nd CL63 with both being M156 2008's. The first one was purchased new in May 2007 and kept 5 years and nearly 50k miles. There were a few warranty issues but nothing major - and none were engine related. I was a bit concerned with oil consumption in the first 2000 miles but eventually, it stabilized as expected. I purchased another 2008 CL63 a few months ago and so far so good. It was a Florida car with 32000 miles and I had substantial background on the car before the acquisition. Additionally, I had my MB dealer do a complete inspection and major service to rest my mind. It is not my daily driver but I have a blast lighting it up every few weeks. There is nothing that sounds like the naturally aspirated M156 in the Mercedes lineup or for that matter most vehicles on the street. The high revving engine sounds more like a Grand National stock car than a Benz. The 2010 and later turbo CL's are no doubt faster, particularly from a dead stop, but the 2008/09 CL63's are like a jet from a rolling run. This was the first AMG engine designed from the ground up, for "traditional" passenger cars and accordingly, it makes the 2008 and 2009 CL63's very special. BTW, mine is even a bit more special as it has the P30 Performance Option. I like just looking at it and seeing it parked in my garage.

Mark out West

The M156 offered a P30 option? I thought that only came with the M157 (1.3 bar versus 1.0 bar maximum boost). Educate me.

MBZFAN55

The P30 AMG Performance Package was available starting in 2008 as a $7000 option.

• 186 mph top track speed
• 20" AMG double-spoke forged aluminum wheels
• AMG leather steering wheel with shift paddles
• Choice of Black Piano Lacquer wood, Burl Walnut wood (731) or Carbon Fiber trim (H73)

The Carbon Fiber Trim turned out not to be initially available. The 2008 CL "early" ordering guide listed Black Ash (736) in lieu of Black Piano Lacquer.