Keeping your 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S running at peak performance requires more than just a routine check-up; it demands precision-engineered lubrication that meets the rigorous standards of European high-performance engineering. This vehicle is a masterpiece of automotive design, but its complex internals, particularly the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 engine, place immense stress on lubricants. The high operating temperatures and extreme rotational forces generated by this powertrain necessitate oils and fluids that offer superior thermal stability and wear protection compared to standard conventional products. Using the correct fluids ensures that the turbocharger spins smoothly, the transmission shifts with razor-sharp precision, and the engine remains protected against the carbon buildup and acidity often found in direct injection engines.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Designed specifically for the unique demands of gasoline and European vehicles, this oil features a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives to handle the high heat of the AMG GT S.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Another top-tier European formula that offers exceptional protection during extreme cold starts and sustained high-speed driving, ensuring optimal flow and coverage for this high-output engine.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A phosphate- and silicate-free ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix that provides protection up to 150,000 miles, safeguarding all cooling system metals and gaskets against corrosion.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant option that is environmentally safer and offers protection up to 1,000,000 miles in heavy-duty applications, with greatly surpassed standards for metallic corrosion and erosion.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – An excellent choice for ABS and traction-control responsiveness, providing stable viscosity over a wide temperature range to ensure reliable stopping power under track or street conditions.
The heart of this machine is the 4.0-liter M178 980 engine, a hand-built powerhouse that produces staggering amounts of torque and horsepower. Because this engine relies heavily on its lubrication system to dissipate the intense heat generated by the twin-scroll turbochargers, the choice of motor oil is critical. AMSOIL 5W-40 FS and 0W-40 FS are engineered to meet the strict requirements of Mercedes-Benz, offering superior film strength that prevents metal-to-metal contact even under the most severe driving conditions. The oil capacity for this engine is 7.4 quarts when the filter is included. It is crucial to note that after refilling, the oil level must be checked to ensure the correct quantity is present, and the oil drain plug should be torqued to the manufacturer’s specification of 22 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage. This fluid change is the foundation of maintaining the longevity of the engine’s internal components.
Cooling System and Brake Performance
While the engine generates immense power, the cooling system must work diligently to manage that heat. The 2016 AMG GT S holds 15 quarts of coolant, a volume that requires a high-quality antifreeze solution to prevent freezing in winter and boiling over in summer. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that exceeds original equipment manufacturer requirements. It is free from phosphates, nitrates, nitrites, silicates, borates, and amines, which helps protect the aluminum and steel components of the cooling system without causing corrosion. For those who prefer a concentrated product, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze is an excellent alternative, offering up to 8 years or 1,000,000 miles of protection and compatibility with all other antifreeze colors.
Stopping power is just as vital as acceleration when driving a vehicle of this caliber. The brake system on the AMG GT S is subjected to extreme thermal loads, especially during track days or aggressive street driving. Standard brake fluids can absorb moisture over time, leading to a spongy pedal and reduced braking efficiency. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is recommended to replace the factory fluid. It is designed to provide excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness and maintains a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range. This ensures that the brake pedal feels firm and responsive, regardless of whether you are navigating city traffic or pushing the car to its limits on a race track. The fluid meets the MB Sheet 331.0 standard, ensuring compatibility with the vehicle’s hydraulic system.
Vehicle Background
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S represents a significant milestone in the history of the brand, marking the company’s return to building a dedicated high-performance sports car rather than just a modified sedan. Born from the AMG division’s desire to create a true two-seater rival to the best sports cars in the world, the GT S features a front-midship engine layout, which contributes to a near-perfect weight distribution. This design choice enhances handling dynamics, giving the driver a sense of connection and control that is often missing in heavier luxury coupes. The vehicle is powered by a hand-assembled, 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, a technology derived from the Mercedes-AMG Formula One team, known for its rapid spool-up and linear power delivery.
Owners of the AMG GT S appreciate its ability to be driven comfortably on daily streets while remaining a serious contender on a racetrack. It is a grand tourer in the truest sense, blending luxury, technology, and raw performance. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials, featuring supportive seats and a driver-focused cockpit. The GT S is not just about straight-line speed; it is a complete driving machine that rewards the driver with feedback and engagement. With its distinctive design language and potent performance, it stands as a testament to German engineering prowess. To maintain this level of performance, owners must adhere to a strict maintenance schedule using premium fluids that can withstand the unique demands of this high-revving, turbocharged platform.
Additional Protective Fluids
Maintenance goes beyond just oil and coolant. For those who store their AMG GT S during the off-season or during periods of non-use, preserving the fuel system and engine internals is essential. AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup that can clog injectors. Additionally, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil is a highly effective rust preventive designed to protect internal engine components during long periods of inactivity. For regular maintenance, AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver is a powerful gasoline additive that can restore fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, helping to maintain peak horsepower and fuel economy. It also helps prevent carbon buildup and pre-ignition knock, which is beneficial for direct injection engines like the one found in this vehicle.
Whether you are an enthusiast who enjoys spirited driving or a careful owner who wants to ensure the vehicle retains its value, using the correct AMSOIL products is the best investment you can make. These lubricants are subjected to rigorous third-party testing, ensuring they meet the highest standards for engine cleanliness, service intervals, and extreme temperature performance. By selecting the right motor oil, antifreeze, and brake fluid, you ensure that your 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S continues to deliver the thrilling performance it was designed for, mile after mile. The synthetic nature of these fluids provides a level of protection that traditional oils simply cannot match, making them the ideal choice for such a sophisticated and demanding machine.