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Want to pull the trigger on 2007 E63 but need your help
Hi everyone!
Wanted to get some expert advice from W211 AMG owners regarding a 2007 E63 with 114,500 km on it (71K miles) for $22K Canadian (approx $17K in real money haha). It's from the same dealership that sold me a brand new 2018 GLC 43 AMG and I like them overall. I'm currently driving a 2008 Honda Accord as my daily to and from work car and my wife has the brand new Benz!
I'm extremely jealous that she gets to drive the Benz all the time so I'm itching to get something new and preferably an AMG and I just love the look and sound of this vehicle.
What should I be asking the dealer regarding this one? What issues should I look out for? Am I going to be happy with this car or will it need servicing all the time? How reliable is it? I know it's not going to be like my trusty Honda but I'm willing to sacrifice that a bit to drive a proper exciting car.
Any input is greatly appreciated! (even if it's to not buy the car)
Look up head bolts, lifters and cams. Front brakes are expensive. Also see if they can tell you if the fuel tank was replaced under the extended warranty.
The price doesn't sound bad at all for the mileage. If you can DIY, they're not terribly expensive to own. If you're someone that takes the car to the dealer when something goes wrong I'd recommend not buying one.
Like mentioned above the you may be able to purchase an E63 for $20k or less but when taking it in for repairs you are paying to repair a vehicle that was $100k when new. Do your research, make sure it was well maintained, and look into the things mentioned above.
Look up head bolts, lifters and cams. Front brakes are expensive. Also see if they can tell you if the fuel tank was replaced under the extended warranty.
The price doesn't sound bad at all for the mileage. If you can DIY, they're not terribly expensive to own. If you're someone that takes the car to the dealer when something goes wrong I'd recommend not buying one.
I like everything you said except the DIY part. I actually can do things on my own but I'm so busy with kids and life in general I can't afford to tinker with the car due to time constraints. How often would you say you need to work on it and what do you mean by front brakes are "expensive"? How expensive and how often would I need to replace them?
I'll do some research regarding head bolts, lifters and cams as well.
Well for AMG, the stock front rotors are about 1k each so about 2k for 2 front rotors. There's aftermarket rotors which can be cheaper, or you can buy the stock ones online which are about $750 or so. But yeah, if you go to the dealer, they'll eat you alive. You need a good indy or be able to DIY. Headbolts they didn't fix til 2011. Go over to the C63 forum, lots more discussion over there. I think you can also do cheaper brakes by using the C63 parts, but there's lots of options out there. A W211 or W212 E350 would be much cheaper, no headbolt issues (balance shaft on 2006/2007), no airmatic and brakes are the normal price.
FCP does have the C63 retrofit kit that is reasonably priced. If you want to stick with the 2 piece rotors you're looking at $1300+ for rotors and pads on the front (that's buying online). Dealer markup on brakes is not nice.
I also forgot to mention the Airmatic setup. It can be costly to fix and some people get rid of it and go with coilovers. If you have a failure and want to stick with it Arnott makes replacements that aren't too expensive. Still not cheap though.
As mentioned before. These were $100,000 cars when new so the maintenance costs match that.
As far as brakes go, I've managed to source both the 2 - piece front and single rear rotors and pads for $1000. How you may ask, a lot of research and time surfing the net, so it can be done.
Check the front brakes, measure them with a micrometer to verify how much life are left before replacement is needed. Typically, new rotors should out last at these two sets of brake pads, maybe three with ceramic pads.
I've owned several different AMG's over the last 9 yrs, and for the most part they've held up well. But their have been times, when something requires fixing, and when that happens.
AMG stands for "All Money Gone" because any parts that has AMG stamped on it, is expensive. I would set aside $3500 for those costly repairs.
Ask the dealership to produce documentation, that all the maintenance such as; engine coolant, brake fluid, engine oil, transmission fluid, rear differential fluids have been changed. and anything else relevant.
No one can tell you, that your buying a fantastic car, as this car is now 11 years old. Things break or wear out. Oil leaks happen, buttons stop working, etc, etc.
For the most part, I've haven't experienced any engine problems, other than leaky gaskets or o-rings. So no one can tell you whether you should or shouldn't buy this car.
It could be a liable daily driver like mine, or a money pit. But if you pull the trigger find yourself a good indy shop that has certified Mercedes techs working for them, that know AMG's.
If your E63 suffers a broken head bolt(s), figure $8k to replace all head bolts (heads have to come off), tappets and gaskets. If you pro-actively replace the head bolts one at a time plus the tappets (recommended to avoid camshaft wear), figure $4k (heads don't have to come off). Or, patiently wait for an E63 that has had the headbolts and tappets and gaskets done and consider buying that car. That's what I did - waited for the right car and bought it.
Front brake job (rotors and pads) will be expensive (two piece rotors) vs standard front brake job - just the price of admission to an E63. You can buy Brembo OEM rotors from FCP Euro and OEM pads to save a hefty sum vs the dealer. I am waiting for my rotors to wear down next year so I can do a complete brake job with ceramic pads. Wish Akebono made E63 pads.
I love my E63 more than any other car I’ve owned. It is a wonderful car. But, it is VERY expensive to maintain. Not for the faint at heart.
Dang it! Perhaps I will skip it.
However, if I get confirmation that all major components have been replaced/fixed up would it be a good idea. Again, I don't mind spending money to fix the vehicle if it's needed but I wouldn't want to fix something and then a few months later the part breaks again. I guess I'm just asking in general; If one part breaks/wears out (like the front brakes), I shouldn't be replacing them every year.
What is the average maintenance cost on a car like this?
Also, if the head bolt's were replaced in the past would they break again?
Dang it! Perhaps I will skip it.
However, if I get confirmation that all major components have been replaced/fixed up would it be a good idea. Again, I don't mind spending money to fix the vehicle if it's needed but I wouldn't want to fix something and then a few months later the part breaks again. I guess I'm just asking in general; If one part breaks/wears out (like the front brakes), I shouldn't be replacing them every year.
What is the average maintenance cost on a car like this?
Also, if the head bolt's were replaced in the past would they break again?
Common big ticket items are, for all W211s:
- SBC failure
- Airmatic suspension failure
The E63 also suffers from the typical 6.2L motor issues.
The E55 doesn't suffer from any internal issues, but does commonly experience:
- Crank position sensor failure
- Increased bearing maintenance for pulleys
Besides that, you will have issues that come along with any used German car that is a decade or more old.
However, you shouldn't be consistently replacing the same part.
Common big ticket items are, for all W211s:
- SBC failure
- Airmatic suspension failure
The E63 also suffers from the typical 6.2L motor issues.
The E55 doesn't suffer from any internal issues, but does commonly experience:
- Crank position sensor failure
- Increased bearing maintenance for pulleys
Besides that, you will have issues that come along with any used German car that is a decade or more old.
However, you shouldn't be consistently replacing the same part.
I love this forum for the great feedback. I'm only looking at the 2007 E63 as that's the only one available that I found for a really nice price. I may check it out but if the problematic parts that you all listed here have not been replaced in the past I will skip it. I'm just not ready to deal with the headache if these issues come up. Granted, I am technically saving a boat load of money by getting a used car (I don't really care of new vs. old) but if I'm pumping money in constantly to keep it going, it's not worth it.
If this one doesn't work out there are plenty others that will come. I'm not in a rush but I'm glad I asked the question and got some honest answers!
The E63 doesn't have SBC, that was on the E55. Which utilized brake by wire. Brakes on the other hand will last you years, typically one will go thru several sets of pads before replacing the rotors.
But only you can decide for yourself, keep in mind these are the worst case scenarios. In over a year, I have spent $1700 on repairs like oil leaks from valve covers, and bad o-rings.
But like others have stated, these are older cars. And with any old car stuff either leaks or breaks, but since these are AMGs maintenance and parts are more expensive then your typical Mercedes Benz E Class.
Don't let these little issues shy you away from owning your dream car. Maybe consider a 2014-15 E63 as their prices have dropped tremendously. Just saying......
The E63 doesn't have SBC, that was on the E55. Which utilized brake by wire. Brakes on the other hand will last you years, typically one will go thru several sets of pads before replacing the rotors.
But only you can decide for yourself, keep in mind these are the worst case scenarios. In over a year, I have spent $1700 on repairs like oil leaks from valve covers, and bad o-rings.
But like others have stated, these are older cars. And with any old car stuff either leaks or breaks, but since these are AMGs maintenance and parts are more expensive then your typical Mercedes Benz E Class.
Don't let these little issues shy you away from owning your dream car. Maybe consider a 2014-15 E63 as their prices have dropped tremendously. Just saying......
Did not know that. Thought they all had SBC. Well then, I guess Airmatic is the only shared issue between all of them.
In regard to the 14/15 era E63 - I have read they are the worst of all with maintenance. Internal motor issues, electrical issues, etc. I would not purchase one without an extended warranty, personally. My E55 is sitting at 74k miles, no warranty, all maintenance done by me. I'd estimate to have spent roughly ~$1500-2000 on misc. repairs not related to SBC or Airmatic.
That said, I've had times where the car has been unexpectedly reliable, and I've had times where it felt like I was constantly buying **** for it. This is just part of the ownership experience. Test drive the car, decide whether or not its worth it, and go from there. A plethora of information regarding other common issues, DIY repairs, etc... is available on this forum. Or on Facebook in one of the AMG enthusiast groups.
Last edited by Davednconfused; 08-20-2018 at 01:01 PM.
I'm just at 80200 in my E63 right now, no airmatic issues what so ever, still original suspension components and no warranty. Every issue has been addressed, no head bolt issue. It's funny out of the three AMG's I've owned with the M156 engine, never had any head bolt issues.
But I will say this, Mercedes, Audi and BMW are over reliant on electronic technology, and it is this technology that ultimately let you down every time. It is not the engine, power train or suspension that breaks, it's the technology.
So I certainly understand your views with not wanting a newer E63. There is no replacement for displacement, and these are the last of the 6.3 liter, or 6208 cubic inch to be exact. And this is first totally designed, developed and built engine from AMG, the first.
I love the linear power band, it's like a freight train, as it builds rpm the power comes into it's own.
For me, I would bite the bullet, and purchase this vehicle, only after due diligence. Then slowly address any issues it might have, fix what you can fix now, then address other items later. And if you can fix somethings on your own the better.
I just replaced an 11 yr old battery in July. The dealership couldn't believe it, and said that it's original. I can't believe that it lasted this long. You will have your little issues from time to time, that goes along with having a 11 yr old car. Rather it be European or domestic.
It just so happens the AMG parts costs more. But if you do pull the trigger, have some maintenance money put aside. And that is my best advice.
I’m at 54,000 miles on a 2008 E63. I’m 10 months into ownership and have spent $800 on repairs to replace a PCV valve. It does look like my right rear is sagging after sitting for days so it appears more repairs are in my near future (airmatic being a common issue with these cars). That being said I found the best example I could and paid extra as a result. I would not be looking for the lowest priced E63 I could find. You will pay 2x on the back end what you saved on the front end.
I’m at 54,000 miles on a 2008 E63. I’m 10 months into ownership and have spent $800 on repairs to replace a PCV valve. It does look like my right rear is sagging after sitting for days so it appears more repairs are in my near future (airmatic being a common issue with these cars). That being said I found the best example I could and paid extra as a result. I would not be looking for the lowest priced E63 I could find. You will pay 2x on the back end what you saved on the front end.
I would cycle the suspension up and down a few times. After sitting for a few days my suspension goes into what I call low rider mode, this is normal and has done it for years. But as soon as the car is started, it raises back to its natural ride height. Also it depends on if the car is on level ground or not.
Yes your so right!. Find the best example and pay a little more for best long term results, compared to finding the cheapest example and pay and pay and pay.
Love all the feedback. Not looking for the cheapest E63 out there by any means but I think if I do my homework and follow up on issues and if it feels good I'll pull the trigger. There are not many of these in my city and this one is available from the dealer that sold me my other Benz so I trust them somewhat.
I understand that an older car will need some TLC and I don't drive my cars hard at all. I just want something different and fun and the AMG's are all about that.
I'll keep you posted!
Make sure that a PPI (Pre-Purchase Inspection) has been down, get it in writing. I feel a little more comfortable buying from a dealership.
But that doesn't always guarantee that there would be issues. I would expand your search maybe two additional states, maybe you'll have better luck.
I live in Virginia, and went to New Jersey and Pennsylvania to purchase vehicles, just because I couldn't find what I wanted in Virginia.
Every now and then I will push her hard, but that isn't very often. I call it clearing her throat, that what I tell the police anyway.
She had a piece of food stuck in the throat, and I was just clearing it out. These cars are tremendously fun to drive, they command respect.
Anyone that knows anything about AMG always asks me about the car. In fact I had someone ask me on Saturday, wanted to take a ride in it.
And when I was at the car wash last week, two gentlemen also had questions. So I certainly hope that you able to obtain your E63 and soon.
I feel privilege sometimes when I'm driving my E63, because people that don't know, don't know. And those that do, are envious.
Two schools of thought; minimize costs (maybe) by driving the car until something breaks, tow it, and deal with the inconvenience and get a rental car if necessary. Other approach is proactive replacement before failure,.; everything breaks but I prefer to choose the time when I have time to work on my car. At 100k miles, ~$4500 in parts. Now, at 150k miles, I estimate ~$2000 in parts ( will total the numbers this weekend ). I forecast ~$900 at 160k miles and ~$2700 at 180k miles. Car gets 20k miles/year so you can figure cost per year. Others here spend fr less but I invest in piece of mind as I take multiple 1000 to 2000 mile trips per year.
Realistically determine your comfort level with risk versus budget.
Edit: I forgot about the transmission which I estimate at~$5000 somewhere between 160k and 175k miles.
Also most importantly, know this before you commit to buying one of these cars without a warranty.
AMG actually stands for "All Money Gone!!". So that you have all the facts.
08-19-2018, 10:59 PM
