The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650 is a pinnacle of automotive luxury, powered by a formidable 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine (code 279.98 H). This engineering masterpiece demands the highest level of protection to maintain its performance and longevity. Proper lubrication is not merely a maintenance task; it is a critical requirement for a vehicle that operates under extreme thermal and mechanical stress. Using the correct high-synthetic fluids ensures that the complex internal components of the S650’s engine, transmission, and cooling system remain protected against the wear associated with turbocharging and high-horsepower operation.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A premium synthetic designed specifically for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles, featuring a precise blend of base oils and additives for superior protection.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – An excellent low-temperature option for the S650 that maintains optimal viscosity and flow characteristics across all operating conditions, ensuring rapid lubrication upon startup.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses while exceeding OEM requirements for longevity and corrosion resistance.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula that offers exceptional protection against metallic corrosion and erosion, ideal for extreme temperature management in high-performance European engines.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain, ensuring smooth shifting and reserve protection for the S650’s transmission.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides protection against wear and helps maintain the precise friction characteristics required for the 7-speed transmission’s optimal performance.
For the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650, engine oil changes are critical due to the high-output nature of the 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12. The oil capacity for this engine is 11.1 quarts when including the oil filter replacement. It is essential to verify the oil level after the refill is complete. When reinstalling the drain plug, ensure the torque is set correctly to 22 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage, and always replace the drain plug seal during service.
Cooling System Specifications
Maintaining the thermal integrity of the S650 is just as vital as engine protection. The cooling system requires a specific fluid to handle the heat generated by the twin turbochargers. The High-Temperature Coolant Capacity (HTCC) is 13 quarts, while the Low-Temperature Coolant Capacity (LTCC) is 3.4 quarts. Whether you opt for the pre-mixed formulation or the concentrated propylene glycol option, ensuring the correct fill volume is necessary to prevent overheating and ensure efficient heat transfer from the engine block to the radiator.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
The 2018 Maybach S650 is equipped with a 722.9 transmission, which requires specialized attention depending on the specific data card code. For models with code SL057 (without code A89, Reduced-Friction), the total fill capacity for the 7-speed transmission is 9.5 quarts. Similarly, for models with code SL058 (with A89 code, Reduced-Friction), the capacity remains at 9.5 quarts for a total fill. Both variants benefit significantly from AMSOIL’s synthetic transmission fluids, which are formulated to provide a reserve of protection against the high temperatures and shear forces encountered in luxury performance sedans.
Fuel System and Additional Protection
While the engine and transmission are the primary focus, the fuel system also plays a role in the S650’s performance. The vehicle can benefit from AMSOIL’s fuel additives, such as the P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive, which helps restore fuel injectors to 100% flow rate and can improve fuel economy. For seasonal storage, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup, while the Engine Fogging Oil offers internal rust prevention during long periods of inactivity.
The maintenance of the 2018 Maybach S650 extends to general cleaning and protection as well. Owners often utilize Heavy-Duty Metal Protector to guard against salt and corrosion, or the Silicone Spray to protect rubber components from drying and cracking. For those who prefer to maintain the vehicle’s pristine appearance without a traditional wash, the Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray provides a protective finish that repels dust and dirt while shielding the paint from UV rays.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650 represents the absolute zenith of the S-Class lineage, serving as the flagship for the ultra-luxury Maybach sub-brand. Introduced as a distinct model from the standard S-Class, the Maybach S650 is built on an extended wheelbase platform that prioritizes rear-seat passenger comfort above all else. At the heart of this grand tourer is the legendary M279 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine. This powerplant is a marvel of internal combustion engineering, delivering an immense 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. This level of power is managed by a 7-speed automatic transmission designed to deliver this torque with seamless, imperceptible smoothness, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering.
The S650 distinguishes itself through an opulent interior that rivals the best first-class accommodations in aviation. The cabin is a sanctuary of silence and comfort, featuring extensive use of Nappa leather, polished wood, and metal accents. The rear seats are configurable, often featuring massage functions, rear entertainment screens, and executive seating positions. The Maybach S650 was not merely a luxury sedan; it was a statement of exclusivity, sitting above the S-Class in terms of price, features, and craftsmanship. Its 6.0-liter V12 engine, code 279.98 H, is one of the few remaining V12s in the production automotive landscape, making it a sought-after machine for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Owners of this vehicle typically value a driving experience that combines effortless power with a “floating” ride quality, courtesy of the Airmatic air suspension. However, this immense performance comes with specific maintenance needs. The high-output V12 operates at high temperatures and generates significant thermal stress. One of the common issues associated with high-mileage high-performance engines like the M279 is the potential for oil sludge formation or oil consumption, which can be exacerbated by extended service intervals or the use of inferior lubricants. The complex turbocharger system also demands oil that can withstand extreme heat without coking or breaking down, as oil breakdown can lead to turbocharger bearing failure—a costly repair. By using a dedicated European formula synthetic oil like AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil (or the 0W-40 variant), owners can mitigate these risks. These fluids are formulated to resist thermal breakdown and maintain viscosity longer than conventional oils, ensuring that the turbo bearings and engine internals remain clean and lubricated even under the most demanding driving conditions.
Another potential area of concern for these luxury sedans is the cooling system. The 6.0-liter V12 requires a cooling system that can manage heat effectively to protect the turbochargers and the engine block. Over time, standard coolants can lose their corrosion inhibitors, leading to degradation of hoses, gaskets, and metal components within the cooling circuit. This can result in leaks or overheating, which is particularly detrimental to a high-revving V12. Utilizing a high-quality antifreeze like the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant helps maintain the chemical balance of the cooling system, protecting the expensive aluminum components from corrosion and scaling.
Furthermore, the 7-speed automatic transmission in the S650 is a precision instrument. While robust, transmission fluid can degrade over time due to the intense heat generated during acceleration and the friction of the clutch packs. Old or degraded fluid can lead to harsh shifting or premature wear of transmission components. Using a fluid specifically designed for European applications, such as the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient or Signature Series Automatic Transmission Fluids, ensures that the fluid maintains the correct friction characteristics and viscosity over a longer period, preserving the transmission’s smooth operation and extending its service life. By addressing these specific maintenance areas with high-performance synthetic lubricants, owners can ensure their Maybach S650 continues to provide a flawless driving experience for years to come.