Looking for purchase tips
I am considering purchasing a used 2010-2012 E63 AMG and planned on going for a test drive next week for 2 different cars in my area, just to get a base feel for the car. There's better used cars out there but further away, I want to see how I feel about the 2 local test drives before pursuing this any further. I was hoping to get some input from experienced E63 owners and perhaps get an idea of what I should be looking out for when I go inspect the vehicle.
Few questions I have come up with,
- How can you tell if rims are factory OEM?
- How can you tell if calipers are factory OEM?
- Is there any reason for the different colored calipers? (or just aesthetic)
- How can you tell if the vehicle has the 'performace package'?
- Why do some engines look different different from the others?
- What MPG are you actually getting?
- Any bad sounds I should definitely look out for?
- Any known engine/transmission issues?
Also, some questions for after the purchase..
- Whats a good exhaust system? Super Sprinter?
- How much would an exhaust system and install cost? (estimate)
- Is it possible to face-lift the tail-lights and head-lights?
Thanks! Looking forward to replies.
I am considering purchasing a used 2010-2012 E63 AMG and planned on going for a test drive next week for 2 different cars in my area, just to get a base feel for the car. There's better used cars out there but further away, I want to see how I feel about the 2 local test drives before pursuing this any further. I was hoping to get some input from experienced E63 owners and perhaps get an idea of what I should be looking out for when I go inspect the vehicle.
Few questions I have come up with,
- How can you tell if rims are factory OEM?
David- OEM rims for AMG models are either 5 or 10 spoke wheels. If your asking how you can tell if it's a replica, I don't think you can tell unless you have your Mercedes dealer authenticate it.
- How can you tell if calipers are factory OEM?
David- Factory OEM calipers comes in red for the P30 ( Performance Package ) or S model for facelift E63. Silver calipers are for none P30 package with the AMG logo on the calipers. I don't think aftermarket calipers come with the AMG logo on them.
- Is there any reason for the different colored calipers? (or just aesthetic)
David- To differentiate between the performance package ( red ) and none performance package ( silver )
- How can you tell if the vehicle has the 'performace package'?
David- Aside from the red calipers, the steering wheel is another indicator. You can also look up the VIN and original window sticker to see if that was the option on the car you are buying.
- Why do some engines look different different from the others?
David- I believe there are a little difference between the 2010-2011 with the NA engine and the 2012 and up Biturbo engine.
- What MPG are you actually getting?
- Any bad sounds I should definitely look out for?
- Any known engine/transmission issues?
Also, some questions for after the purchase..
- Whats a good exhaust system? Super Sprinter?
- How much would an exhaust system and install cost? (estimate)
- Is it possible to face-lift the tail-lights and head-lights?
David- You can search this forum, there are lots of aftermarket exhaust out there as well as DIY facelift tail and head lights upgrades.
Thanks! Looking forward to replies.


