Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-AMG G55 and G63 W463 buying guide
The W463 G-Class carried two AMG V8s in this period: the supercharged 5.4 litre G55 to 2012, then the 5.5 litre twin-turbo G63 from 2012 to 2018. Body and drivetrain checks apply to both; engine checks are for the G63, as the G55 has far less published evidence.
The versions
- G55 AMG (2004 to 2012): M113 5.4 litre supercharged V8, 476PS, rising to 500PS in 2006 and 507PS in 2008
- G63 AMG (2012 to 2018): M157 5,461cc twin-turbo V8, 537hp and 561lb ft, 571PS from 2015
- G63: seven-speed Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic automatic
- Four-wheel drive with three individually lockable differentials on the G63
What to check on a W463 G55 or G63
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Oil and coolant leaks on the G63
What to look for: On a G63, look with a torch around the valve covers, the turbochargers and the sump for wet oil, and under the car where it has been parked. Check the coolant level and look for coolant residue, especially around 100,000 miles. Look at the power steering hoses for weeping.
Why it matters: Oil leaks from the valve covers, turbos and sump gaskets can happen on the G63, coolant leaks tend to appear around the 100,000-mile mark, and dried-out power steering hoses can leak. A dry engine bay is a good sign.
Rust in the known places
What to look for: On either model, look around the base of the windscreen, along the sills, at the door hinges and handles, around the tailgate and rear lights, inside the wheel arches and around the rear bumper. Read the online MOT history for 'vehicle structure is corroded' advisories.
Why it matters: Later W463s rust far less than pre-1991 cars, but they are not totally immune, and these are the places it shows. A clean car is a sign of one that's been looked after.
Tuning history and bore scoring on the G63
What to look for: On a G63, ask directly whether the car has been remapped and look for tuner invoices. Check the history for oil changes with the correct grade of oil, and watch for blue smoke or rough running.
Why it matters: Cylinder bore scoring has occurred on the G63, most often on tuned cars. Using the right grade of quality oil is important, so a standard car with a consistent oil change history is the one to have.
Also in the full guide
- Drivetrain fluids and differential locks
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the W463 G55 or G63
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.