Proper maintenance of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG S is critical to ensuring the longevity and performance of its high-output powertrain. Equipped with the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 (Engine Code 177.980 1 Turbo), this luxury performance SUV operates under extreme thermal and mechanical stress. Utilizing fluids designed specifically for modern European engineering requirements prevents degradation, ensures optimal lubrication, and protects against the harsh conditions of turbocharging and high-load driving.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered for the precise demands of gasoline and hybrid European engines, offering exceptional protection in extreme heat.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Provides superior cold-start protection while maintaining vital viscosity at high temperatures for this twin-turbo engine.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects cooling system metals and prevents corrosion over 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option requiring mixing, offering extended protection up to 150,000 miles in passenger vehicles.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity range essential for high-performance braking systems.
- AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer – Keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish, gum buildup, and ethanol corrosion during storage.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores fuel injectors to 100% flow rate and improves fuel economy by cleaning critical GDI components.
- AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor – Lubricates the fuel system and upper cylinders to reduce friction and protect against wear.
Engine Oil Specifications and Selection
The heart of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG S is the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This high-performance powerplant requires lubrication that can withstand the immense heat generated by the twin turbos and the high-revving nature of AMG engines. Standard mineral oils fail to meet the strict requirements of European manufacturers, making a high-quality synthetic option essential. The engine oil capacity for this vehicle is 10 quarts when including a filter change. After refilling, it is crucial to check the oil level to ensure accuracy.
AMSOIL offers two primary European formula motor oils tailored for this application. The AMSOIL 5W-40 FS is a robust choice designed for the unique demands of European gasoline and diesel vehicles. Its precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives ensures the engine remains protected regardless of driving conditions. Alternatively, the AMSOIL 0W-40 FS provides a slightly lower viscosity at startup, which can be beneficial for cold-weather driving. Both oils feature European formulas that are distinct from standard domestic synthetic blends, ensuring compatibility with the specific seals and material requirements of the Mercedes-Benz engine block.
The drain plug torque specifications are equally important for a safe and leak-free service. For plastic drain plugs, the torque should be set to 3 ft/lbs, while metal plugs require 15 ft/lbs. Regardless of the plug material, the drain plug seal must always be replaced during an oil change to maintain the integrity of the lubrication system.
Thermal Management: Coolant and Brake Fluid
Efficient thermal management is vital for the reliability of a high-output engine like the one found in the GLE63 AMG S. The cooling system capacity varies depending on the specific configuration, with the Low Temperature Coolant Capacity (LTCC) at 5.3 quarts and the High Temperature Coolant Capacity (HTCC) at 16.6 quarts. Maintaining the correct coolant mixture prevents the engine from overheating under the stress of heavy loads or spirited driving on the track or highway.
For coolant, the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant offers a 50/50 pre-mix formulation. This glycol-based fluid is phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free, making it safe for all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It is engineered to exceed original equipment manufacturer requirements and provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years. For those who prefer a concentrated mix, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant is an excellent alternative. It must be mixed with distilled or high-quality water and offers the same superior corrosion protection and extended service intervals.
Braking performance on a vehicle of this caliber cannot be compromised. The factory recommendation for brake fluid involves using DOT 4 Plus or products approved on Mercedes-Benz Sheet 331.0. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is an ideal replacement. It provides excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems while maintaining a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range. This stability ensures consistent brake pedal feel and prevents the fluid from boiling under the high pressures generated during aggressive braking.
Additional Fluids and Performance Additives
While the vehicle does not require specific recommendations for transmission or differential fluids in this guide, maintaining the integrity of the existing fluids and supporting the engine’s overall health is paramount. For owners who may store their vehicle or drive it in varying conditions, using fuel additives can be a proactive measure. The AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer is essential for seasonal storage, keeping fuel fresh for up to 12 months and fighting ethanol corrosion. During regular operation, the AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive serves as a powerful maintenance tool. It cleans GDI fuel injectors, restores up to 14% of horsepower, and improves fuel economy by ensuring the fuel delivery system is free of carbon buildup.
Furthermore, the AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant helps lubricate the fuel system and upper cylinders, offering protection against wear that can occur from direct injection systems. For those interested in storage maintenance, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil provides rust prevention for internal components during long periods of inactivity, ensuring the engine is ready to start when needed.
About the Vehicle
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG S is the pinnacle of the GLE lineup, representing a perfect fusion of luxury SUV practicality and high-performance sports sedan capability. Part of the second generation of the GLE, it rides on a platform designed to balance comfort with a dynamic driving character. Under the hood lies the legendary M177 twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine, a unit renowned for its incredible torque delivery and rapid power response. This engine, coupled with an AMG SpeedShift TCT 9-speed automatic transmission, allows the GLE63 AMG S to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds, a figure that rivals dedicated sports cars despite the vehicle’s substantial weight.
Owners are drawn to this vehicle for its versatility. It serves as a capable daily driver for families, featuring a spacious interior with premium materials, advanced infotainment systems, and a smooth, air-suspension-equipped ride quality. Yet, when the drive mode is switched to “Sport Plus,” the dampers stiffen, the exhaust note deepens, and the throttle response becomes instantaneous, transforming the SUV into a track-ready machine. The S model designation typically denotes the highest level of performance within the trim, often including features like rear-axle steering for improved agility and upgraded braking systems.
Despite its robust engineering, the GLE63 AMG S is not immune to common issues faced by high-performance turbocharged vehicles. One frequent concern is the formation of carbon buildup on intake valves, a result of the direct injection system. Using high-quality synthetic oils and regular additives like AMSOIL P.i. can significantly mitigate this issue, helping to keep the intake tract clean and the engine running efficiently. Another challenge associated with the complex air suspension and chassis dynamics is wear on bushings and mounts over time; synthetic lubricants can help prolong the life of these components by reducing friction and resisting breakdown under high stress.
Fuel system efficiency is another area where owners often seek improvement. Over time, fuel injectors can become clogged, leading to reduced power and poor fuel economy. The high-octane fuel requirements of this engine mean that any contamination or deposit buildup is felt immediately. Regular use of fuel system cleaners ensures that the GLE63 AMG S maintains its peak power output. Additionally, the high operating temperatures of the turbo system place immense stress on the engine coolant; failure here can lead to costly overheating issues. Using a premium antifreeze with superior heat transfer properties is a proactive step to prevent thermal failures and maintain the longevity of the cooling system, ensuring the vehicle remains a reliable and thrilling companion for miles to come.
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