Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz E55 and E63 AMG W211 buying guide
The W211 E-Class AMG launched in 2003 as the E55, with the supercharged 5.4 litre M113K V8, and was replaced by the E63 with the naturally aspirated 6.2 litre M156. Both came as a saloon or an estate.
The versions
- E55 (2003 to 2006): M113K 5,439cc supercharged V8, 476hp and 516lb ft, five-speed automatic
- E63: M156 6.2 litre naturally aspirated V8, more power than the E55 but less torque, delivered higher in the rev range
- Airmatic air suspension; the E55 has Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) electro-hydraulic brakes
- Saloon and estate (about one in ten E55s was an estate), rear-wheel drive
What to check on a W211 E55 or E63
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The SBC brake pump
What to look for: On an E55, watch for any brake warning message on the dashboard at start-up and during the drive, and ask whether the SBC pump has been replaced or rebuilt and when the brake fluid was last changed.
Why it matters: The E55 uses Sensotronic Brake Control, an electro-hydraulic braking system whose pump has a finite service life. Specialists can rebuild the pump as well as replace it, and changing the brake fluid needs a computer with the right software. A car with the pump done and the fluid changed by someone equipped for it is the better buy.
Airmatic suspension
What to look for: On the test drive, switch between the suspension settings several times. After the drive, park on level ground and check the car sits level, especially at the rear. Look again after it has been parked for a while if you can.
Why it matters: A fault in the Airmatic system usually means a leak or a failing pump, and a leak can make the rear sag. Sometimes it's simply a hose that has come off rather than a punctured air spring. Air suspension and suspension bushes all need attention given enough time.
Rust around the wheelarches
What to look for: Look closely around all the wheelarches for bubbling paint or rust. Also look under the front of the car where the gearbox cooler pipes meet the radiator.
Why it matters: Early cars have been known to rust around the wheelarches. Cars from 2004 onwards have better corrosion protection but are still worth checking. The gearbox cooler pipes can corrode where they join the radiator.
Also in the full guide
- Engine-specific items
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the W211 E55 or E63
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.