Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-AMG C63 W205 buying guide
The W205 C63 replaced the old 6.2 with the M177, a 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8, in C63 and C63 S forms. It was sold as a saloon, estate, coupé and, from 2016, a cabriolet, all with rear-wheel drive.
The versions
- C63: M177 3,982cc twin-turbo V8, 469bhp and 479lb ft
- C63 S: 503bhp and 516lb ft, with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential
- Seven-speed MCT automatic with a wet clutch in place of a torque converter; nine-speed MCT from the 2019 facelift
- Rear-wheel drive only
- Saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet (from 2016)
What to check on a W205 C63
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The C63 S electronic differential
What to look for: On a C63 S, scroll through the instrument messages for any drivetrain or differential warning, and on the drive feel for clunks or uneven behaviour from the rear when accelerating out of slow corners. Ask whether the differential has had any work.
Why it matters: A handful of owners have reported failures or sporadic errors from the electronic differential. A software update or a repair to its internal motor can fix it, and a full replacement is the last resort. Most cars are unaffected.
Misfires and engine sensors
What to look for: With the engine warm, listen for an uneven idle and feel for any stutter under load on the drive. Watch for the engine warning light, and ask whether any sensors have been replaced.
Why it matters: The M177 has a reputation as a strong engine, but occasional misfires come from sensor faults, and owners reported exhaust gas sensors prone to failure. Tight packaging in the engine bay makes sensor replacement a long job, so a car with these already replaced is a plus.
Stop-start and its auxiliary battery
What to look for: Once the engine is warm, come to a stop in traffic and check that the engine stops and restarts smoothly. Look for any battery or stop-start warning message on the dashboard.
Why it matters: The auxiliary battery that supports the stop-start system has been known to fail. A software fault could also disable stop-start and in some cases stall the engine, which a dealer update fixes. A new auxiliary battery puts the battery side right.
Also in the full guide
- Recalls, including seat frames
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the W205 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.