The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S is a high-performance sedan that demands a level of lubrication precision found only in top-tier synthetic products. Under the hood lies a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8, an engine capable of producing immense horsepower and torque. This powertrain operates under extreme thermal and mechanical stress, requiring oils that maintain viscosity, prevent shear, and protect critical components like the turbocharger bearings. For owners of this AMG model, adhering to the correct fluid specifications is not just about maintenance; it is essential for preserving the vehicle’s legendary performance and longevity. Proper lubrication ensures that the engine, motor oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission, and all supporting systems operate smoothly, even during aggressive driving or track use.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
To meet the rigorous demands of the E63 AMG S, AMSOIL offers a comprehensive lineup of synthetic lubricants designed to exceed original equipment manufacturer standards. Below are the essential fluids and products for this vehicle, featuring specialized European formulas and high-temperature resistance.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for the unique demands of gasoline and hybrid European vehicles, this oil provides exceptional protection against high temperatures and shear, fitting the requirements for 5W-40 viscosity applications.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – An ideal choice for extreme temperature operation, this synthetic European formula features a precise blend of base oils and additives designed to protect the high-revving E63 AMG engine in all conditions.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed, ethylene glycol solution that offers up to 150,000 miles of protection, ensuring the cooling system manages the immense heat generated by the twin-turbo engine efficiently.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated, phosphate-free alternative that requires mixing with water, providing superior corrosion protection and extending coolant life up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures, this fluid maintains fluidity in sub-zero conditions and provides reserve protection during heavy use of the 7-speed automatic transmission.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A highly efficient synthetic option that protects against wear and meets the strict friction requirements of the 722.971 transmission, ensuring smooth shifting and optimal performance.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Offers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity range, meeting the high-performance braking standards required for the E63 AMG S.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Resists heat and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks, providing strong anti-wear protection and ensuring quiet operation for the power steering system.
Why Correct Fluids Matter for the E63 AMG S
The 2016 E63 AMG S is not a standard luxury sedan; it is a super-sedan engineered for the track and the autobahn. The 5.5-liter V8 with twin-scroll turbos generates significant heat, making thermal management critical. Using a motor oil that does not meet the required European standards can lead to accelerated wear, oil thinning under load, and potential failure of the turbocharger bearings. The AMSOIL FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oils are engineered with precise additive packages to handle these specific challenges, ensuring the engine remains clean and protected regardless of driving intensity.
Furthermore, the transmission fluid in this vehicle is a sophisticated 7-speed automatic designed for rapid shifts and high torque loads. Using the correct fluid is vital to prevent shudder, overheating, and premature wear of internal clutches. The AMSOIL transmission fluids are formulated to withstand the extreme pressures generated during hard acceleration and spirited driving, maintaining their lubricating properties longer than conventional fluids.
Coolant systems in high-performance engines also face unique challenges. The 2016 E63 requires a specific type of antifreeze to protect the diverse metals within the cooling system from corrosion and erosion. AMSOIL’s passenger car antifreeze solutions are phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, and borate-free, which is crucial for preventing corrosion in the complex alloy materials used by Mercedes-Benz. This ensures that the cooling system remains effective for the entire service interval, preventing overheating that could otherwise lead to catastrophic engine failure.
Engine Oil Specifications and Capacities
When servicing the 5.5L V8 engine, precision is key. The total oil capacity for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S is 9 quarts when performing a complete change including the filter replacement. It is crucial to check the oil level after refilling to ensure the proper quantity is in the crankcase. The oil drain plug torque specifications are also important to prevent leaks or damage; the M14 bolt requires 22 ft/lbs, while plastic plugs should be torqued to 3 ft/lbs, and M12 bolts to 15 ft/lbs. Selecting between the 0W-40 or 5W-40 viscosity depends on the operating temperature, with both options providing the necessary protection for the engine’s turbochargers and bearings.
Transmission and Differential Care
The 722.971 transmission in this model comes in two variations regarding the friction modifier code A89. For units without the reduced-friction code and those with it, the total fill capacity for the 7-speed system is approximately 8.2 quarts. The choice between the Signature Series and OE Fuel-Efficient transmission fluid depends on the specific friction requirements of your transmission. Both fluids offer superior protection against wear and high temperatures compared to standard factory fluids. The Signature Series is particularly noted for its ability to withstand heavy towing and challenging terrain, while the OE formula ensures efficient friction modification for smooth shifting characteristics.
The differential and transfer case lubrication also requires attention. While specific capacity figures for the differential are noted as “U/K” (unknown) in the general data, the front differential capacity is listed as 1.3 pints. For the transfer case, the application of the appropriate synthetic lubricant ensures that power is transferred smoothly to the wheels. Using a high-performance automatic transmission fluid in these components, where recommended, can provide the necessary film strength to prevent wear on the gears and bearings.
Brake and Steering Systems
High-performance braking systems like those found on the E63 AMG S generate immense heat during hard stops. Standard brake fluids can boil under these conditions, leading to a spongy pedal feel or complete brake failure. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid offers a high boiling point and stable viscosity, ensuring consistent pedal feel and responsive ABS operation. This is essential for a vehicle that can stop as quickly as it accelerates.
The power steering system, which handles the weight of the heavy sedan and the demands of precise handling, also benefits from synthetic lubrication. The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid reduces friction and prevents leaks by keeping seals soft. It resists heat breakdown and provides anti-wear protection, ensuring the steering remains quiet and responsive throughout the fluid’s service life.
Seasonal and Additional Protection
For owners who seasonally store their vehicle or drive in extreme conditions, additional protection products are available. AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup that can clog fuel injectors. Similarly, Engine Fogging Oil is highly effective for protecting internal engine components during long periods of inactivity, preventing rust and corrosion. For daily drivers looking to maximize efficiency, AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can restore up to 14% of horsepower and clean GDI fuel injectors, ensuring optimal fuel economy and performance.
Maintaining the pristine appearance of the E63 AMG S is equally important. AMSOIL’s cleaning and detailing products, such as the Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax, provide protection against UV rays and dirt without the need for excessive water or soap. For engine bay maintenance, the Engine Degreaser and Brake Cleaner ensure that the intricate components under the hood and in the wheel wells remain free of grime, allowing for better heat dissipation and easy inspection.
About the Vehicle
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S represents the pinnacle of the E-Class lineup, a model that has long been recognized as the benchmark for luxury performance sedans. This generation of the E-Class, built on the M275 platform, combines executive comfort with supercar-rivaling performance. The “S” designation in the E63 AMG S distinguishes it as the most potent version, featuring a slightly higher output and enhanced cooling systems to handle the additional thermal load of the hand-built 5.5-liter V8 engine. This engine is a masterpiece of German engineering, utilizing a 90-degree V-configuration and twin-turbos to deliver power that can be felt instantly.
Drivers of the E63 AMG S appreciate the car’s dual personality: it is quiet and refined enough for daily commutes, yet aggressive and responsive when the “Sport Plus” mode is engaged. The vehicle’s reputation is built on its ability to carry four passengers comfortably while accelerating at a pace that would shock sports car enthusiasts. The 2016 model year continued the legacy of the E63 as a true “Super Sedan,” bridging the gap between the comfort of a luxury cruiser and the raw power of a dedicated track car. Its status in the automotive market is secure, with many owners treating it not just as a means of transportation, but as a daily driver for enthusiasts who demand the best from their vehicle.
The platform itself offers a robust foundation for handling high-speed stability and precise steering. The E63 AMG S is equipped with advanced suspension systems and electronic differential locks that work in harmony to provide a driving experience that is both controlled and exciting. For owners, the responsibility of maintenance is high, but the reward is a vehicle that performs with precision and reliability for many years. By using the recommended synthetic lubricants, owners ensure that this engineering marvel continues to deliver the performance and luxury it was designed to provide.