Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG C218 buying guide
The second-generation CLS63 AMG uses the M157 5.5 litre twin-turbo V8, the same engine as the E63 of the period, and was sold as a four-door coupé and, from 2012, as the X218 Shooting Brake. UK cars are rear-wheel drive.
The versions
- M157 5,461cc twin-turbo V8, 518bhp and 516lb ft
- Power Package: 550bhp and 531lb ft, standard from 2013
- CLS63 S (from 2013): 577bhp and 590lb ft
- AMG Speedshift MCT automatic, rear-wheel drive (4Matic wasn't offered in the UK)
- Four-door coupé (C218) and Shooting Brake estate (X218)
What to check on a C218 CLS63
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Rattles on a cold start
What to look for: On a car built up to the end of 2012, start the engine from fully cold, ideally after it has stood overnight, and listen at the front of the engine for a rattle in the first few seconds. Ask whether the timing chain tensioner modification has been done.
Why it matters: Mercedes issued a service bulletin for a rattle lasting a few seconds after start-up on M157 engines built up to December 2012, with the CLS listed among the affected models. The E63 shares the engine and the same fix. The secondary timing chain tensioners rattle until oil pressure builds, and Mercedes says no lasting damage is expected. The fix is a non-return valve in each cylinder head's tensioner oil feed, with new tensioners where needed.
Camshaft sensors and oil in the wiring
What to look for: Watch for the engine warning light, and with the bonnet open ask a specialist to point out the camshaft position sensors and look at them and the wiring plugs around them for oil. Oily connectors are the thing to note.
Why it matters: Camshaft position sensors are known to fail on the M157, and a sensor on its own is a relatively simple fix. Oil can work its way from the sensors into the wiring harness, which is much more involved to put right, so a careful look before buying is wise.
Engine and gearbox mounts
What to look for: With the bonnet open, have someone blip the throttle while you watch the engine. A small rock is normal; a big lurch is the thing to note. On the drive, feel for knocks or a thump through the car when pulling away or changing direction between drive and reverse.
Why it matters: The torque of the twin-turbo V8 puts big loads on the engine and gearbox mounts, and they can wear. New mounts restore the refinement, and replacements on the invoices are a plus.
Also in the full guide
- Tuning history
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the C218 CLS63
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.