jattsingh

I have my eye on a used 2013 gl63 with around 30k miles. The carfax is clean, however there is one thing on the service history that causes me to be a bit concerned in that the front structs were replaced. Is this anything to be worried about?

Also what else should I be on the look out for with this vehicle? Have there been any major issues with this particular year?

cyberorth

If I remember correctly, a lot of these cars did this ticking sound when steering turned close to limit. The solution was to replace struts, but I can't be certain.

In general these cars go through brakes a lot. Check the amount of wear. Same with rear tires. The 360 camera is useless at night. Other than that I have had no problem with mine.
2013 yielded very few gl63s. Maybe only a couple of months of production. A lot of 2013 orders became 2014. No difference in the car just MY. You are looking at one of the first GL63s.

jattsingh

I have read other users experience and they are saying that because of the exhaust there is more noise in the vehicle as opposed to a gl550. I am wondering if that is true. Looking to take the kids around also and would consider the gl550 instead if its that big of a deal.

cyberorth

It is not as laud as my c63, but as it is an AMG it is meant to have some manly grunt heard inside. The kids will NEVER complain.
I never liked driving my gl450 as it was no fun. This monster is a pleasure to drive. From power to handling it is very well done. Given the choice my vote is the 63.

Trimmer2

I would also be aware of any shimmies in the steering wheel and body. After MANY sets of tires, we replaced the engine mounts (and transmission mount) and front suspension control arm bushings. I had one mount completely failed (loose, sloppy and leaking after removed but no visual problems while on the car) and both bushings were compromised and looked very tired, off center and used. My understanding they all typically last only about 20k miles which was about right in my situation but, many owners/techs never feel/recognize the problem. There is a new part number for mounts but, unable to determine any changes in the part.

Another interesting thing I didn't know about typical AMG's (or at least this engine) is that they tend to burn oil. I have to check and often add 1-2 quarts between annual changes. No smoke no concern but, was told these engines are built "loose" so tend to use oil.

Car now feels and drives like 95+% brand new after much headache and tail chasing shimmies at high speeds (70-90mph).

Other than that, car runs GREAT and particularly good on long haul road trips. It eats up the miles. I can't imagine accepting the 350, 450 or 550 suspensions on these 3 ton beast!

cyberorth

Trimmer2, ummm, what are shimmies?!!!

jattsingh

the one i was looking at sold. but I found a new one, 15k miles, 2 years left on the warranty, fully loaded.. Going to check it out tomorrow but may buy it and then extend the warranty another 2 years. We were looking at GL550's but for about $20k more I was able to find this GL63 so I thought might as well spend a bit more and get everything we want.

If I do get the engine mount and airmatic issue would this be covered under warranty?

cyberorth

Startekinfo is down right now so I can't copy a link here. Invest in a day subscription and pull all service bulletins and other docs and you'll have a better idea of what to look out for the car. If you get a service history you can cross reference as well. I can only assume warranty would cover as it is a defective part and happened while under coverage.

cyclrder

if you live in a snowy area... the 4matic in the 550 is much better than the fixed 40/60 split of the GL63 (though if you know how to drive a car properly, it is infinitely more fun).. plus you will need dedicated snow tires no matter what.

the sound is not loud enough in my opinion...
I've had two of these cars and love them...

cyberorth

If I remember right you had a 550 as well. Interesting fact about 4matic as I thought 63 had it as well. Thanks.

jattsingh

Thanks everyone for the great advice.. We ended up getting a GL550 4Matic fully loaded instead. Saved about $30k and will maybe look at the GL63 in the future when we get our next SUV. I test droved the GL63 and even though it was great we thought about it and felt the 550 was a better choice given this would be a family hauler.. and also the bucket seats on the GL63 were not as comfortable for me as opposed to the seats in the GL550

cyberorth

Congrats. Glad you found what you were looking for. See you around.