The turbocharged nature of this powerplant subjects internal components to temperatures and pressures far exceeding those found in standard passenger vehicles. Synthetic motor oils formulated specifically for European engines provide superior thermal stability and resistance to oxidation, ensuring consistent protection during spirited driving or extended highway commutes. Beyond the engine, the sophisticated 7-speed automatic transmission and the robust transfer case and differential systems also require precise fluid formulations to operate within their designed tolerances. Neglecting the specific fluid requirements can lead to premature wear, reduced efficiency, and costly repairs.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
To ensure your 2016 GLE63 AMG receives top-tier protection, we recommend the following AMSOIL products designed to meet and exceed original equipment manufacturer standards.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered for the unique demands of European gasoline, diesel, and hybrid vehicles, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives for superior protection.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – An excellent choice for extreme cold weather or severe driving conditions, offering exceptional flow characteristics and wear protection while maintaining high-temperature stability.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid formulation that provides extended protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, safeguarding all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant option that greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion, offering maximum protection for high-output engines.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures, this fluid remains fluid in sub-zero conditions and provides reserve protection during heavy use.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A high-performance option that protects against wear and friction, ideal for vehicles equipped with specific reduced-friction codes.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring reliable stopping power in all conditions.
Proper fluid maintenance extends to cooling, braking, and fuel systems. The cooling system of the GLE63 AMG operates under significant load, making the use of high-quality antifreeze essential to prevent overheating and corrosion. For the braking system, which must handle the massive weight and speed of this AMG vehicle, AMSOIL’s DOT 3 and DOT 4 synthetic fluid ensures a firm pedal and consistent performance without the boiling points associated with conventional fluids. Additionally, for owners looking to maximize fuel economy and engine cleanliness, adding AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver gasoline additive can help restore injector flow rates and control carbon buildup in Direct Injection (GDI) systems.
Engine Oil Specifications and Capacities
When performing an oil change on the 5.5L 8-cylinder turbocharged engine, it is crucial to use the correct viscosity to ensure proper lubrication across all operating temperatures. The recommended oil grades for this vehicle include 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30, and 5W-40, depending on the ambient temperature and driving conditions. For temperatures above -25°C, 5W-30 or 5W-40 are appropriate choices, while 0W-30 and 0W-40 are ideal for all-weather protection.
The total capacity for the engine oil system, including a filter change, is 9 quarts. It is vital to refill the system carefully and check the oil level immediately after the refill to ensure the proper amount is present. Incorrect oil levels can lead to foaming, overheating, or insufficient lubrication of critical engine components. When draining the old fluid, pay close attention to the torque specifications for the drain plugs. The M12 drain plug requires a torque of 15 ft/lbs, while the M14 plug requires 22 ft/lbs. Stripping the threads or leaving the plug loose can result in serious oil leaks or catastrophic failure.
While the source summary indicates no specific oil filters are recommended for this model year and engine code, the quality of the oil itself plays a monumental role in the health of the engine. The synthetic base oils in AMSOIL European motor oils are formulated to minimize sludge and deposit formation, keeping the internal passages of the high-performance engine clean. This cleanliness is particularly important for turbochargers, which rely on a steady flow of clean oil for lubrication and cooling of the spinning shafts.
Transmission and Drivetrain Fluids
The 2016 GLE63 AMG is equipped with a sophisticated 7-speed automatic transmission (model 722.905) that requires specific fluid characteristics to function smoothly. The total fill capacity for this transmission is 9.5 quarts. It is important to note that fluid requirements can vary slightly based on the presence of specific production codes, such as the A89 reduced-friction code found on the vehicle data card.
Regardless of the specific code, AMSOIL offers both Signature Series and OE Fuel-Efficient transmission fluids that meet the rigorous demands of this transmission. The Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is capable of withstanding the extreme heat generated during aggressive driving or towing, while maintaining low-temperature fluidity. This ensures rapid hydraulic response and reduced friction, which can contribute to improved fuel economy and transmission longevity. The OE Fuel-Efficient variant also provides excellent wear protection and is designed to work seamlessly with the transmission’s electronic control systems.
The transfer case and differential systems also require attention. For transfer cases equipped with code 430, the capacity is 3.2 pints, while those without the code require only 1.1 pints. The front differential holds 1.7 pints of lubricant. While the source summary highlights the use of automatic transmission fluids for certain transfer case applications, maintaining the correct fluid level and type is essential for the all-wheel-drive system to engage and disengage smoothly. Proper lubrication here prevents noise, vibration, and harshness, ensuring the vehicle handles like a true sports SUV.
Maintaining Cooling and Braking Systems
The cooling system for this high-performance vehicle has a capacity of 8.5 quarts for the High Temperature Cooling Circuit (HTCC) and 2.1 quarts for the Low Temperature Cooling Circuit (LTCC). Using a high-quality antifreeze is critical to managing the extreme heat loads produced by the turbocharged engine. AMSOIL’s Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze is a 50/50 pre-mix formulation that provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. It is phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free, which reduces the risk of deposit formation that can clog narrow cooling passages in modern engines.
For the braking system, the vehicle recommends the use of DOT 4 plus fluid, adhering to Mercedes-Benz Sheet 331.0 standards. AMSOIL’s DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid offers a high boiling point and stable viscosity, which is essential for preventing brake fade under heavy load. This fluid ensures that the ABS and traction control systems receive accurate feedback from the wheel speed sensors, contributing to superior safety and handling. Regular fluid changes remove moisture that can accumulate over time and lower the boiling point, potentially leading to a spongy pedal feel in critical situations.
About the Vehicle
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG represents a pinnacle of engineering, blending the comfort and versatility of a full-size luxury SUV with the aggressive performance of a high-performance sports sedan. Based on the X166 platform, the GLE63 is known for its imposing road presence and muscular design cues, including distinctive front fascias, aggressive wheel arches, and a wide stance that communicates power before the vehicle even moves.
At the heart of this machine is the M157 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine, a hand-built powerhouse developed by AMG. This engine delivers a staggering amount of power and torque, propelling the heavy SUV from 0 to 60 mph in seconds and providing effortless overtaking ability on highways or mountain roads. The GLE63 AMG is equipped with an advanced 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which dynamically distributes power between the front and rear axles to optimize traction and handling in all weather conditions. The vehicle also features a sophisticated air suspension system that can be adjusted to provide a comfortable ride or a sportier, lower stance, giving the driver a wide range of driving characteristics at their fingertips.
Owners of the 2016 GLE63 AMG appreciate its unique position in the market, offering the utility of a family hauler with the excitement of a supercar. Whether used for daily commuting, long-distance travel, or weekend autocross events, the vehicle demands the highest quality maintenance to preserve its performance envelope. The GLE63 is a testament to German engineering, where precision, luxury, and raw power converge in a single, formidable package.
In summary, maintaining a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG requires more than just standard service intervals; it requires premium lubricants that can handle the unique challenges posed by this high-output engine and advanced drivetrain. By selecting the right AMSOIL products, owners can ensure their vehicle continues to deliver the exceptional performance and reliability that defined the GLE63 AMG from day one.