mikebutterfield

Just experienced an unexpected engine failure on my 2007, 35,000km ML63 AMG. It's generally driven by my wife so doesn't ever break a sweat. A usual trip out with the kids, parked up with the engine running, kids inside. 30 seconds later, the truck engulfed in white & blue smoke. Panic!!! Kids out & engine switched off. I roll up 15 mins later after a panic phone call and check out the truck. Engine won't crank over...nothing. Flatbed to MB and 2 days of diagnostic.....Valve failure!! MB are now dismantling the engine to determine extent of internal damage and thus re-build or full replacement. Fortunately I have 1 month remaining of local MB dealer used warranty. Question.... is this a common/unusual case? Can it be prevented in the future by regular checking? Should I accept a re-build or better to insist on new mill? Not wanting to freak out ML 63 AMg owners BUT, this is big bucks repair, MB quoting upwards of 80K USD...a tough call if no warranty!!!

Maverick1975

I think this is the second such story I have heard in fours years on this forum

schmick325

Scary.

Mine's just out of warranty.

$80k Usd is rediculous. Car isn't worth that.

There are always 2nd hand 63 engines on eBay.com or eBay.de

Somewhat risky but this is what I would do, and get an independent to fit it.
Also, if it's valve failure, depending on the extent of the damage, it ist hard to pull the head off the motor and get it reco'd.

Who was your engine builder by the way?