The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG is a high-performance luxury SUV that demands precision maintenance. Powered by the formidable 5.5L V8 twin-turbocharged engine (Engine Code 157.982 8 Turbo), this vehicle pushes its drivetrain to the limit. Using the correct lubricants is not merely a suggestion for this machine; it is a requirement to maintain warranty compliance, ensure optimal power delivery, and extend the lifespan of expensive components. The turbochargers generate extreme heat, while the high-revving V8 puts significant stress on internal engine parts. A standard commercial oil will often break down under these conditions, leading to sludge, deposits, and accelerated wear. To protect this investment, owners require synthetic formulations designed specifically for the unique metallurgy and tight tolerances of European vehicles.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Specifically engineered for the unique demands of gasoline and hybrid European vehicles, offering a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives that exceed OEM requirements.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Designed for extreme cold starts and high-heat protection, this formula ensures rapid flow to turbochargers and engine bearings while maintaining viscosity stability under load.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures common in the GL63 AMG, remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions and providing reserve protection during high-performance driving.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A top-tier alternative that offers excellent protection against wear while meeting the stringent specifications required for the 7-speed automatic transmission found in this model.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique OAT formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses, preventing corrosion and boil-over in this high-output engine.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant that offers superior heat transfer and protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, ideal for maintaining operating temperatures under extreme loads.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent responsiveness and a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, crucial for the performance braking systems on the GL63 AMG.
When servicing the engine, capacity is a critical factor to consider. The 2016 GL63 AMG with the 5.5L engine requires a total of 9 quarts of oil when performing a filter change. Owners should adhere to the manufacturer’s torque specifications for the drain plug: M14 bolts require 22 ft/lbs, plastic plugs 3 ft/lbs, and M12 bolts 15 ft/lbs. After refilling, it is essential to check the oil level to ensure the correct quantity is in the sump. The recommended motor oils for this application are the 5W-40 and 0W-40 FS (Full Synthetic) European formulas. These fluids are rated for viscosity grades including 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30, and 5W-40, making them versatile for all operating temperatures. The 5W-40 grade is particularly robust for temperatures above -25°C, while the 0W-40 offers superior cold-start protection for winter driving.
Moving beyond the engine, the transmission system is another area where synthetic superiority pays dividends. The GL63 AMG utilizes a sophisticated 7-speed automatic transmission with codes 722.905 and 722.931, available in variants with and without the A89 reduced-friction code. Depending on the specific transmission configuration, the total fill capacity can vary between 7.5 and 9.5 quarts. The 722.905 models generally require 9.5 quarts for a total fill, while the 722.931 models typically require 7.5 quarts. AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to withstand the high torque output of the AMG V8, preventing the fluid from thinning out or breaking down under the intense heat generated during spirited driving or towing. Using a synthetic fluid ensures that the transmission shifts remain crisp and that the clutches operate smoothly, reducing the risk of shudder or hesitation.
Thermal management is paramount for this turbocharged powerhouse, making the choice of coolant vital. The cooling system capacity is approximately 13.1 quarts. AMSOIL offers two primary options for this service. The Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a pre-mixed, ethylene glycol 50/50 solution that is phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, silicate, borate, and amine-free, ensuring compatibility with all other coolant colors. It is designed to protect the engine up to 150,000 miles or five years. Alternatively, the Propylene Glycol Antifreeze is a concentrated formula that requires mixing with distilled water. This option offers extended protection up to 150,000 miles (or 240,000 km) in passenger cars and is also suitable for heavy-duty applications where longevity is key. Both formulations provide excellent protection against corrosion and erosion, critical for the aluminum components found in modern Mercedes engines.
The braking system of the GL63 AMG requires a fluid that can maintain its integrity under repeated hard stops. The recommended fluid is a DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid. This fluid is formulated to provide excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. By resisting boiling points better than conventional fluids, it maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring pedal feel remains consistent even after repeated hard braking sessions. The fluid is compatible with the specific requirements of Mercedes-Benz, meeting MB Sheet 331.0 standards.
Vehicle Background
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG represents the pinnacle of the first-generation GL-Class platform, blending off-road capability with supercar-like performance. Produced between 2013 and 2016, this iteration is widely regarded as one of the most powerful SUVs of its time. Under the hood lies the M157 5.5-liter biturbo V8 engine, which generates an impressive 563 horsepower. This powertrain allows the GL63 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 4.4 seconds, a feat that rivals many sports sedans despite the vehicle’s substantial weight and SUV stature.
The GL63 AMG is built on the W166 platform, a robust architecture that shares its roots with the ML-Class but is significantly enhanced for AMG performance. The “AMG” designation signifies that the vehicle was hand-built by the high-performance division of Mercedes-Benz, featuring distinctive upgrades such as larger brakes, adaptive air suspension, and a sport-tuned chassis. The exterior styling includes a unique front bumper, side skirts, and an aggressive rear diffuser, setting it apart from standard luxury SUVs of the era. Inside, owners are treated to a cabin that balances luxury with driver-centric controls, featuring AMG-branded steering wheels and sports seats.
Market position for the GL63 AMG is unique; it fills a niche for customers who need the utility of a three-row SUV but refuse to compromise on driving dynamics. It is a favorite among enthusiasts who want a daily driver that can also tow trailers or navigate winter conditions without losing its edge. The vehicle’s reputation is built on its ability to deliver a thrilling driving experience in a practical package, though it requires high-octane fuel and rigorous maintenance schedules to sustain its performance characteristics. Owners typically appreciate its blend of luxury, space, and raw power, making it a standout in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
Additional Maintenance Products
While engine and transmission fluids are the core of vehicle health, other additives and protectants can enhance the longevity of the 2016 GL63 AMG. For fuel system maintenance, AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is highly recommended. This additive helps restore up to 14% horsepower and cleans GDI fuel injectors, which is beneficial for the direct injection engine in the GL63. It also helps reduce the need for higher-octane fuel and controls pre-ignition knock.
For seasonal storage, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup that can clog fuel lines. Additionally, the Engine Fogging Oil is an excellent choice for protecting internal engine components during long periods of inactivity, ensuring that when the engine is restarted, it is ready to run smoothly. For general cleaning, the AMSOIL Power Foam® Carburetor and Induction-System Cleaner can be used to remove deposits from the intake system, further optimizing engine performance and efficiency.
Metal protection is also a consideration for owners who drive in harsh environments. The AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector contains special rust inhibitors that protect against salt and moisture, leaving a wax-like coating on metal surfaces. The MP Metal Protector is another versatile option for cutting through rust and freeing frozen components. For interior and exterior care, the AMSOIL Exterior Ceramic Spray provides UV protection and water shedding, while the Interior Detailer (available in Light Lemon or Scent Free) offers multi-surface cleaning and 90-day UV protection to keep the cabin looking pristine.
Maintaining a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG requires a commitment to quality, but the rewards are a vehicle that performs as intended for years to come. By using the correct AMSOIL synthetic lubricants and additives, owners can ensure their GL63 AMG remains a reliable and exhilarating driving machine, regardless of the conditions it faces on the road.