Maintaining the peak performance of your 2018 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG requires more than just filling the tank and changing the oil on a calendar schedule; it requires using the precise fluids engineered for the unique demands of its high-output twin-turbocharged engine and advanced chassis systems. The S63 AMG is a luxury performance sedan that pushes its 4.0-liter V8 to the limit, generating significant heat and stress on lubrication systems. Using the correct AMSOIL synthetic lubricants ensures that critical components—from the turbochargers and transmission to the brake lines and cooling system—remain protected against extreme temperatures and severe service conditions.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – This oil is specifically formulated for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives to handle the stress of the S63’s twin-turbocharged 4.0L engine.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – An excellent choice for all temperatures, this fluid offers superior cold-start protection and high-temperature stability, ensuring rapid oil flow to critical engine components even in sub-zero conditions while withstanding the high heat of spirited driving.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – This pre-mixed formulation provides protection up to 150,000 miles and is engineered to exceed OEM requirements, safeguarding cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses against corrosion and overheating.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that offers exceptional protection up to 1,000,000 miles in heavy-duty applications, this phosphate-free formula greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion.
- 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, providing reserve protection during the intense shifts typical of an AMG model.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – This fluid offers robust protection against wear and helps maintain transmission efficiency, ensuring smooth power delivery from the engine to the drivetrain.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Providing excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness, this fluid maintains stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, which is critical for the precise braking demands of the S63 AMG.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – This fluid reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks, offering strong anti-wear protection and excellent performance in both low and high-temperature conditions.
Essential Lubrication Capacities and Service Specifications
Proper maintenance of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG hinges on using the correct fluid capacities and adhering to torque specifications during service. The vehicle’s powertrain is complex, featuring a 4.0-liter V8 with engine code 177.980 C Turbo, which demands precise lubrication to manage the heat generated by its high-output operation. When performing an oil change, it is crucial to note that the engine requires a capacity of 9.5 quarts of oil when including the filter replacement. After refilling, you must verify the oil level to ensure it is correct, as overfilling or underfilling can lead to significant performance issues.
The engine’s oil drain plug torque specifications vary depending on the plug material used during manufacturing or replacement. For plastic drain plugs, the torque specification is 3 ft/lbs, while metal drain plugs require a torque of 22 ft/lbs. Adhering to these specific values prevents stripping the plug or compromising the seal, which could lead to leaks or oil loss. It is also recommended to use a metal plug if the vehicle currently has a plastic one to ensure long-term reliability under the high thermal cycles of a turbocharged engine.
The cooling system is another critical area requiring attention. Depending on the specific configuration, the system utilizes either a Low-Temperature AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant (LTCC) requiring 2.5 quarts or a High-Temperature AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant (HTCC) requiring 9.5 quarts. Using the correct volume ensures that the radiator, water pump, and engine block operate within their designed thermal envelopes. Additionally, the power steering system requires a fill of 1.2 pints in the front reservoir. Neglecting these specific capacities can result in poor thermal management, which is particularly dangerous for an AMG model that frequently operates under high load.
Advanced Protection for Severe Service Conditions
AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are designed to blow the doors off the highest industry standards, offering protection that is essential for a vehicle of this caliber. Whether the S63 is being used for extreme temperatures, long commutes, or spirited track driving, the specialized formulations of these fluids ensure that the vehicle remains protected. The 5W-40 FS and 0W-40 FS European motor oils are particularly vital, as they are formulated to handle the added stress of the turbocharger and the extended drain intervals that owners often prefer. These oils provide excellent engine cleanliness, preventing the buildup of carbon deposits that can plague direct injection and turbocharged engines.
Beyond the engine, the transmission and braking systems benefit from dedicated AMSOIL fluids. The Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and challenging terrain, remaining fluid even in sub-zero temperatures. This ensures that the transmission shifts smoothly, protecting against wear, sludge, and temperature-related problems. For the braking system, the DOT 3 and DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid provides a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring reliable stopping power and ABS responsiveness. This stability is crucial for maintaining control during sudden stops or high-speed maneuvers.
Additional Fluids and Maintenance Products
Complete vehicle maintenance involves more than just the primary fluids. For seasonal storage, AMSOIL offers a Gasoline Stabilizer that helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup while fighting ethanol corrosion. This is ideal for keeping the S63’s sensitive fuel system in top condition during periods of inactivity. Similarly, the Engine Fogging Oil is a highly effective rust preventive designed to protect internal engine components during storage, ensuring that the engine is ready to start and run smoothly when needed again.
To further enhance performance, the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver is a gasoline additive that can restore up to 14% horsepower and clean GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after a single tank of fuel. This product helps reduce the need for costly higher-octane fuel and controls pre-ignition knock, which is a common concern in high-compression turbo engines. The Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor complements this by lubricating the fuel system and upper cylinders, compatible with capless fuel systems.
For general vehicle care and maintenance, AMSOIL offers a range of greases and protectants. The Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease resists thermal and oxidation degradation, offering outstanding low-temperature pumpability for cold-season operability. The Heavy-Duty Metal Protector contains special rust and corrosion inhibitors to protect against salt and moisture, leaving a long-lasting protective coating. For cleaning, the Heavy-Duty Degreaser quickly removes the toughest grease and grime from engine surfaces, while the Brake and Parts Cleaner eliminates oil and grease from brake components without leaving residue.
Other useful products include the Silicone Spray for protecting rubber surfaces and preventing cracks, the Power Foam® Carburetor and Induction-System Cleaner to maximize horsepower, and the Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray for maintaining the vehicle’s finish. The Exterior Ceramic Spray offers UV protection and rapid water shedding, while the Interior Detailer – Light Lemon and Interior Detailer – Scent Free provide 90-day UV protection and trap odors. These products ensure that every aspect of the S63 AMG, from the engine bay to the interior trim, receives the professional-grade care it deserves.
Vehicle Background and Performance Overview
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is a pinnacle of automotive engineering, representing the luxury sedan segment at its absolute best. Built on the W222 platform, this vehicle is powered by the handcrafted M177 engine, a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that replaced the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 in previous models. This engine code, 177.980 C, signifies the advanced technology packed within the block, featuring variable valve timing, direct injection, and a unique “hot-v” design where the turbochargers are nestled between the cylinder banks for rapid response and reduced lag. The S63 AMG is renowned for its ability to deliver over 600 horsepower and nearly 600 lb-ft of torque, providing acceleration that rivals many supercars while maintaining the plush comfort and quietness expected of an S-Class.
Owners of the S63 AMG appreciate the car’s dual personality. It can glide silently through city traffic in a relaxed manner, yet transforms into a formidable machine on a track or open road. The vehicle features a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission that manages the immense power smoothly, along with an AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension that offers selectable driving modes. These modes range from Comfort, which softens the ride for daily driving, to Sport and Sport Plus, which tighten the suspension and sharpen throttle response for a more aggressive driving experience. The S63 is also a leader in safety and technology, often including the latest in driver assistance systems, adaptive lighting, and a luxurious interior with high-end materials and cutting-edge infotainment.
Despite its reliability, the S63 AMG does present specific mechanical challenges that proper lubrication can help mitigate. One common issue in high-mileage twin-turbo engines is carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. This is particularly true for gasoline direct injection engines where fuel does not wash over the valves. Using the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can help keep injectors clean and restore lost horsepower, addressing the root of this efficiency loss. Additionally, the complex cooling requirements of the V8 turbo engine can sometimes lead to coolant degradation or seal hardening over time. Regularly refreshing the cooling system with AMSOIL Antifreeze helps maintain the integrity of gaskets and hoses, preventing leaks and overheating issues that can be costly to repair.
Another potential problem area is the turbocharger oil supply lines and seals. High heat and vibration can eventually cause these seals to harden or crack, leading to oil leaks that can damage the exhaust or even the engine. The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid and the high-quality motor oils recommended for this vehicle are designed to resist heat and maintain seal softness, helping to prevent these types of leaks and extend the life of the turbo system. Furthermore, the transmission in the S63 is subjected to significant thermal stress during spirited driving. Using a premium synthetic transmission fluid like the Signature Series ensures that the fluid does not break down under extreme temperatures, preserving the transmission’s smooth operation and longevity. By addressing these specific wear points with high-quality AMSOIL products, owners can ensure their S63 AMG continues to perform flawlessly for years to come.