M157 Problems and Tune Up
 

Hi Guys! I'm new to MBWorld even though I've owned a CLS 550 for a while now. I've recently found a 2012 CLS63 AMG (W218) and a 2013 E63 AMG (W212, V8 Biturbo) both with a bit less than 72k miles on it. I heard that the M157 motor is great and pretty reliable. I know some people (not personally) still tune theirs with 100k+ miles on them. My knowledge on the M157 motor is very limited, I know that it's got forged internals and that it's very strong could easily handle 1000hp without a rebuild. But what are some common problems on it? Like for example the M156 with the head bolt issues. I'm also going to do I tune up for the vehicle after purchasing it. I'm thinking Pads & Rotors, Engine oil & filter, Transmission oil, Diff oil, and new Sparks Plugs. Anything else you guys could recommend replacing, such as seals, etc? Also the 2013 E63 AMG also comes with Carbon Ceramic Brakes, how many miles should I change the rotors on that? I heard you don't need to replace Carbon Ceramic rotors with in 100k miles.
Thank you guys and Happy New Years!!!!!!

CCB should last up to 300k miles.

The engine maintenance you are describing should be fine at 72k. Maybe decarbonising could be a good idea too. Other than that, the M157 is very reliable, there is only one small issue with the valve timing cover A2760150201 leak, it is in front so if you undo air intakes you'll see if there is some oil around the seal. The part no. A2760150201 is Mg and the block is Al, that may be the reason for the reseal need.

2014 63s
 

Jan, can you reseal the cover with silicon. I did this on an X5 V8 simple and would think that the 63 design would be the same where you can pop off the cover reseal and install.

m157 is reliable. and while the engine can handle 1000hp the transmission usually cannot without upgrades. not sure if you planned to push it that far but just keep that in mind.

Hey Peter,

Looks like your sticky should be posted here. Can't hurt for him to know everything beyond just engine.

Thank you, indeed. I might need to do it at ±45k miles.

Overall a very very solid platform which not much in the way of common major issues. AMG really hit this one out the ball park.. Take care of her and she will be good for many miles.

Cool thanks Peter! Since the car is private owned, a friend of a friend. So I'm taking it to a Mercedes Dealership for a Pre Purchase Inspection. They should pick up most of these problems right?