The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S represents the pinnacle of high-performance luxury sedans, powered by a handcrafted 4.0L V8 biturbo engine. This powerhouse delivers immense horsepower and torque, creating extreme operating conditions that standard lubricants simply cannot withstand. To maintain peak performance and protect the intricate engineering of this specific vehicle, owners must rely on synthetic fluids designed for the unique demands of European performance machinery. Using the correct oils and fluids is not just about meeting a manufacturer’s checklist; it is about ensuring the longevity of the engine’s turbochargers, transmission components, and cooling system under the stress of aggressive driving.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A premium synthetic formulated specifically for the 4.0L twin-turbo engine, offering superior thermal stability and protection against the high stresses of AMG driving conditions.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Provides exceptional cold-weather starting protection while maintaining a robust oil film at high operating temperatures, ideal for year-round use in this high-output engine.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed for the 722.930 transmission, this fluid withstands the rigors of high-speed shifting and elevated temperatures to ensure smooth operation.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective yet high-performance alternative that offers excellent protection against wear for the automatic transmission system.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mixed formulation that protects the cooling system components from corrosion and overheating, ensuring the turbocharged engine stays within optimal temperature ranges.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant option that provides extended protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Meets the rigorous specifications required for the C63’s braking system, providing a stable viscosity and preventing brake fade during hard stops.
Engine Oil and Filtration Specifications
The 4.0L V8 biturbo engine (Engine Code 177.980 J) in the C63 AMG S is a masterpiece of modern engineering, but it demands precision maintenance. The engine requires a total oil capacity of 9.5 quarts when performing a standard oil change that includes a filter replacement. After refilling, it is critical to check the oil level to ensure the correct volume is present. The oil drain plug must be torqued to 22 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage to the drain plug seal.
Owners have two primary viscosity options depending on the ambient temperature and driving style. For operation in all temperatures, the recommended viscosity is 0W-40. If the vehicle is operated in temperatures above -25°C, a 5W-30 or 5W-40 viscosity is also acceptable. The AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil is specifically engineered for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles. These formulas feature a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives that exceed original equipment manufacturer requirements. The FS line is designed to protect the turbocharger bearings and ensure engine cleanliness, which is vital for a vehicle that sees high-rpm driving. Alternatively, the AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil offers robust protection across all seasons.
Transmission and Cooling System Protection
The transmission in the 2016 C63 AMG S is a 7-speed automatic with the design code 722.930. This transmission requires specific handling regarding fill capacity and fluid type, as the system is sensitive to fill volume. For the 722.930 transmission, the total fill capacity is 7.5 quarts. It is important to note the specific data card requirements: models without the A89 code (Reduced-Friction) and those with it both utilize the same total fill volume, but the fluid selection is crucial for longevity.
AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is highly recommended for this application. It is formulated to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain. This fluid remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring quick shifts even in winter, while providing reserve protection during heavy use and abuse on the track or highway. For owners seeking a value-oriented option that still delivers top-tier protection, the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is an excellent alternative that protects against wear and extends the life of the transmission components.
The cooling system for this high-output engine holds a capacity of 11.7 quarts. Effective cooling is non-negotiable for a twin-turbocharged engine. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that allows for use in a wide variety of vehicles. It is engineered to exceed OEM requirements and offers protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. As an ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix, it protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It is phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free, making it safe for modern aluminum engines and ensuring no compatibility issues with existing fluids or colors. For extended performance, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant is also available as a concentrated option.
Brake Fluid and Additional Maintenance
The braking system on the C63 AMG S is designed for high-performance stopping power. For the HBH system, the vehicle requires DOT 4 plus fluid, specifically products approved on MB Sheet 331.0. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is an ideal choice, offering excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. It provides a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, which is critical for maintaining pedal feel and stopping power under extreme conditions.
For vehicle owners who plan to store the C63 AMG S during off-seasons or periods of inactivity, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months. It fights ethanol corrosion and protects against varnish and gum buildup, ensuring the direct injection system remains clean. Additionally, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil is a highly effective rust preventive designed to protect internal engine components during long periods of inactivity, ideal for high-performance engines that may not be driven daily.
To maintain the aesthetic and protective qualities of the vehicle, AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease resists thermal degradation for long-term performance. For cleaning and detailing, AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner quickly removes contaminants without residue. Other essential maintenance products include the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive to restore horsepower and clean injectors, and the AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor for fuel system lubrication. For exterior protection, AMSOIL Exterior Ceramic Spray offers rapid water shedding and UV protection, while AMSOIL Interior Detailer – Light Lemon and AMSOIL Interior Detailer – Scent Free provide versatile cleaning and UV protection for cabin surfaces.
Vehicle Background
About the Vehicle
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S is a standout model in the automotive world, marking a significant transition in the performance sedan segment. Unlike its predecessor, which utilized a naturally aspirated 6.2L V8, the 2016 model introduced the groundbreaking 4.0L twin-scroll turbocharged V8. This engine, developed in-house by Mercedes-AMG, represents a shift toward efficiency without sacrificing the brute force for which the AMG brand is famous.
This vehicle belongs to the W205 generation of the C-Class, known for its lightweight aluminum-intensive construction and sophisticated rear-wheel-biased all-wheel-drive system (4MATIC), though the C63 S was also available in rear-wheel-drive configurations. The “S” designation in the model name indicates the higher-performance variant, tuned to deliver significantly more horsepower and torque than the standard C63. This powertrain is often described as a “small block big power” engine, delivering response times that rival naturally aspirated engines due to the lack of lag in the modern turbo setup.
Owners of the C63 AMG S typically value a balance of daily drivability and track capability. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials, featuring sport seats and an advanced MBUX infotainment system, while the exterior boasts aggressive styling cues like a wide track, distinctive grille, and muscular wheel arches. It is a vehicle that commands respect on the road, offering a driving experience that is both refined and visceral. The engineering behind the 7-speed automatic transmission allows for lightning-fast gear changes, contributing to the car’s reputation as one of the best driving sedans of its era. Regular maintenance using high-quality synthetic lubricants is essential to preserve the performance characteristics and reliability of this exceptional machine.