The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is a high-performance vehicle that demands precise maintenance. Under the hood lies a robust 6.3L naturally aspirated V8 engine, known for its significant power output and the need for lubricants that can withstand elevated temperatures and mechanical stress. Proper lubrication is not just about routine maintenance; it is essential for preserving the longevity of the vehicle’s components, ensuring optimal performance, and preventing premature wear in an engine designed for speed and agility. Using the correct viscosity and specifications is critical for this European engineering masterpiece.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For the 2008 Mercedes Benz CLS63 AMG, AMSOIL offers a comprehensive range of synthetic lubricants tailored to the specific requirements of this vehicle. These products are designed to exceed original equipment manufacturer standards, providing superior protection against wear, sludge, and extreme temperatures.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A premium European formula featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and additives, designed specifically for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Another excellent choice for this vehicle, offering the same European formulation benefits with a viscosity suited for extreme temperature variations.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – An advanced fluid that withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A high-quality synthetic fluid designed to protect against wear and ensure smooth shifting in automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that requires mixing with water, offering protection up to 150,000 miles and 5 years, while being free of phosphates and silicates.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Formulated to reduce friction, keep seals soft to prevent leaks, and provide strong anti-wear protection and high-temperature stability.
When performing maintenance on your CLS63 AMG, it is vital to adhere to the specific fluid capacities and specifications outlined by the manufacturer. For the engine, the recommended oil grade is either 0W-40 or 5W-40, suitable for all temperature ranges. The system holds 9.3 quarts of oil when including the filter replacement. If your vehicle is equipped with an oil cooler, you may need to add extra oil if the cooler is drained during the service. After refilling, allow the engine to sit for at least five minutes or run it and turn it off to ensure accurate oil level readings. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 ft/lbs for proper sealing.
Transmission and Cooling Systems
The automatic transmission in the 2008 CLS63 AMG requires specific attention to ensure smooth operation and longevity. For the 7-speed automatic transmission (model 722.9), the total fill capacity is 9 quarts. This requirement applies regardless of whether the vehicle has the reduced-friction code (A89) or not. Using a synthetic transmission fluid is highly recommended to handle the heat and stress generated by the powerful drivetrain. AMSOIL offers both Signature Series and OE Fuel-Efficient synthetic options that are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of this transmission, providing protection against wear, sludge, and temperature-related issues.
Cooling the engine is equally critical for a high-performance V8 like the 6.3L. The cooling system capacity is 12.5 quarts. AMSOIL offers two excellent Antifreeze & Coolant options: a pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol formulation or a concentrated Propylene Glycol Antifreeze. The ethylene glycol option is a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation compatible with all other antifreeze colors and free of phosphates, nitrates, nitrites, silicates, borates, and amines, offering protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years. The concentrated propylene glycol alternative allows for custom mixing with distilled water and can provide even longer protection in specific applications, safeguarding the cooling system’s metals and hoses against corrosion and erosion.
Brake and Steering Fluids
Maintaining the braking system is paramount for safety and performance. The CLS63 AMG recommends DOT 4 plus DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid, specifically meeting MB sheet 331.0 standards. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is an ideal replacement, offering superior dry and wet boiling points to prevent fade during hard driving. It ensures excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems, with a stable viscosity that performs consistently from extreme cold to high heat.
Power steering operations rely on fluid that can handle the hydraulic pressures and temperature fluctuations of the system. The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid is designed to reduce friction and help seals remain soft, which prevents leaks over time. It resists heat degradation, extends fluid life, and provides strong anti-wear protection, ensuring quiet operation and reliable steering response for the vehicle.
Additional Protection and Care
For seasonal storage or long periods of inactivity, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup while fighting ethanol corrosion. If you are storing the vehicle, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can provide a rust preventive coating on internal engine components to protect against corrosion during extended downtime. For daily driving, the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can restore horsepower and clean fuel injectors, while the Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor helps lubricate the fuel system and upper cylinders, reducing wear and noise.
Beyond mechanical fluids, keeping your vehicle clean is part of its upkeep. AMSOIL offers a variety of car care products, including the Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray for a quick, soap-free shine, and a Heavy-Duty Degreaser to remove grime from engine components. For metal protection against the elements, the Heavy-Duty Metal Protector or MP Metal Protector can be used to guard against rust and corrosion, leaving a durable barrier against salt and moisture.
About the Vehicle
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG represents a unique and highly desirable segment of the automotive market: the four-door coupe. Based on the W219 platform, the CLS conceptually bridges the gap between a luxury sedan and a sporty coupe, offering a sleek, sloping roofline that does not compromise the rear seating accessibility or trunk space. The CLS63 AMG, in particular, was equipped with the hand-assembled M156 6.3-liter V8 engine, a powerhouse that delivered roughly 518 horsepower and significant torque. This engine was renowned for its “naturally aspirated” character, providing a linear and aggressive power delivery that many enthusiasts consider a pinnacle of V8 engineering before the widespread adoption of turbocharging in the AMG lineup.
This model was part of Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance AMG sub-brand, which focuses on enhancing the driving dynamics of the standard vehicle. The CLS63 AMG featured an aggressive suspension tuning, larger brakes, and a refined exhaust note that distinguished it from standard CLS models. It was built for drivers who wanted the practicality of a five-door (including the hatchback-like rear) layout without sacrificing the thrill of a high-performance sports car. The combination of its distinctive design, the potent 6.3L V8, and the luxury appointments of the CLS series made it a standout choice for those seeking a driver-focused luxury vehicle in the late 2000s. Owning one requires a commitment to high-quality maintenance to keep this complex and powerful machine running at its best.
Why AMSOIL for Your CLS63 AMG
AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are engineered to handle the extreme conditions that high-performance engines like the M156 face. Whether you are driving in extreme temperatures, engaging in spirited driving on the track, or enduring heavy traffic and stop-and-go commutes, AMSOIL products provide a level of protection that conventional oils cannot match. Our fluids are designed to resist thermal breakdown, reduce friction, and extend the life of critical components. By choosing AMSOIL, you are ensuring that your 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG receives the best possible care, allowing you to enjoy its performance for years to come.
The AMSOIL brand is trusted by enthusiasts and professionals alike for its rigorous testing and proven performance. Our products are subjected to industry-standard testing to guarantee they meet or exceed the required specifications for European vehicles. With a wide range of compatible fluids, filters, and additives available, AMSOIL provides a complete solution for maintaining the health of your CLS63 AMG. From the initial oil change to the transmission fluid replacement and beyond, you can have confidence that your vehicle is being protected with the best synthetic lubricants available.
By following the recommended fluid capacities and using the specific AMSOIL products outlined in this guide, you contribute to the reliability and longevity of your vehicle. The comprehensive fluid package available includes everything from engine oil and transmission fluid to brake fluid and coolants, ensuring that every aspect of your CLS63 AMG’s mechanical health is addressed. Whether you prefer the 5W-40 or 0W-40 viscosity for your engine, or the Signature Series or OE series for your transmission, there is an AMSOIL solution tailored to your needs.