Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG W204 buying guide
The W204 C63 AMG, built from 2008 to 2015, uses the M156, a naturally aspirated 6.2 litre V8 that was the first V8 AMG designed from scratch. It came as a saloon, estate and coupé, with several higher-powered versions along the way.
The versions
- M156 6,208cc naturally aspirated V8, 457hp; Performance Pack adds uprated brakes, firmer suspension and a limited-slip differential
- Performance Pack Plus (from 2009): 487hp, using internal parts from the SLS; Edition 507 run-out model with 507hp
- Black Series (from mid-2011): 517hp
- Seven-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive: torque converter before the facelift, AMG Speedshift MCT with a lock-up clutch after
- Saloon, estate and coupé bodies
What to check on a W204 C63
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Head bolts on 2008 to 2011 cars
What to look for: Start the engine from cold and listen for noisy running in the first minutes. Check the coolant level in the reservoir. On a 2008 to 2011 car, ask whether the engine or head bolts have been replaced and look for the paperwork.
Why it matters: On engines built from 2008 to 2011, cylinder head bolts can break and lead to head gasket failure. It's rare, more often reported in the USA than in Europe, and Mercedes replaced engines under warranty. Specialists describe both this and a noisy cold start as fixable, so evidence of the work is reassuring.
Camshaft lobe wear
What to look for: Listen at the top of the engine with it idling and warm, and again with the bonnet open as someone blips the throttle. A ticking or clatter from the top of the engine is the thing to note. Ask whether the top end has ever been rebuilt.
Why it matters: Failing cam lifters put extra stress on the camshaft lobes and wear them. The fix is a top-end rebuild, which an independent specialist can carry out. Invoices for a rebuild are a sign of a car that's been looked after.
Rough idle
What to look for: Let the engine idle once warm and watch the rev counter and feel through the seat. A smooth, steady idle is right; a hunting or lumpy idle is the thing to note.
Why it matters: A rough idle on the M156 can point to a leaking intake manifold. It's a known item and a manifold repair or replacement puts it right.
Also in the full guide
- Steering wobble at speed
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the W204 C63
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mercedes-Benz.