Ensuring your 2018 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG S receives the correct lubrication is critical for maintaining the performance of its high-output twin-turbo V8 engine. This vehicle operates under extreme thermal and mechanical stress, requiring synthetic lubricants that can withstand high temperatures, prevent sludge formation, and maintain viscosity where conventional oils fail. Using the wrong fluid or extending service intervals beyond recommended limits can lead to accelerated wear, reduced power output, and costly repairs to sensitive transmission and differential components.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Specifically engineered for the demands of European gasoline, diesel, and hybrid engines, this oil offers superior thermal stability for your C63 AMG S turbocharged 4.0L engine.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Provides exceptional cold-start protection and fluid flow in extreme sub-zero temperatures while maintaining a robust film strength when the engine reaches peak operating heat.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free OAT formulation that exceeds OEM requirements, ensuring your cooling system remains clean and protected from corrosion over extended intervals.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated alternative that requires mixing with distilled water, offering superior protection against metallic corrosion and erosion for high-performance cooling systems.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Delivers outstanding protection against wear and friction for the 7-speed automatic transmission, maintaining fluidity even during severe driving conditions and elevated temperatures.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective option that still provides essential protection against wear and sludge, compatible with the specific friction modifiers required for this transmission.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Designed to meet or exceed DOT 4 and MB Sheet 331.0 standards, this fluid offers a higher boiling point and consistent pedal feel for a more responsive braking experience.
Proper lubrication is the single most effective way to extend the life of a high-performance vehicle like the C63 AMG S. The factory-recommended fluids are a baseline, but AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are formulated to perform far beyond those minimums. For the engine, viscosity selection is paramount. The 4.0L twin-turbo engine requires oil that can flow quickly on startup to lubricate the turbocharger bearings and maintain a protective barrier against the extreme heat generated by the combustion process. The recommended 5W-40 or 0W-40 grades ensure the oil stays fluid enough to circulate instantly in cold weather but thick enough to protect engine components when the temperature gauge climbs.
The transmission in this model, specifically the 7-speed unit, is sensitive to fluid quality. Synthetic transmission fluids offer a distinct advantage over conventional fluids by resisting oxidation and maintaining consistent viscosity under the heavy loads of aggressive acceleration. By using a dedicated synthetic formula, you reduce friction, improve shift quality, and protect the transmission from the heat degradation that often leads to failure in high-performance applications. Cooling is another critical area. The 2018 C63 AMG S generates significant thermal energy, and a high-performance coolant is essential to transfer that heat away from the engine block and cylinder heads effectively. AMSOIL antifreeze products are designed to prevent the corrosion and scaling that can clog cooling passages and cause overheating.
Fluid Capacities and Maintenance Specs
When performing a complete fluid change, it is important to adhere to the specific capacity requirements to ensure proper operation. For the engine, the 4.0L turbocharged V8 requires approximately 9.5 quarts of motor oil when the filter is replaced. After refilling, it is crucial to check the oil level and top off as necessary. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage. For the cooling system, the High-Temperature Coolant Capacity (HTCC) is 11.6 quarts, while the Low-Temperature Coolant Capacity (LTCC) is 4.9 quarts. The automatic transmission requires a total fill of 7.5 quarts for the 7-speed unit, regardless of whether the reduced-friction code (A89) is present, though specific fluid selection may vary based on the transmission code. The rear differential holds a capacity of 2.5 pints of gear lubricant. Adhering to these capacities ensures your lubrication system functions correctly without overfilling or underfilling critical components.
Maintenance Intervals and Severe Service Protection
Drivers who subject their C63 AMG S to severe driving conditions—including frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy towing, or track use—should consider extending the maintenance intervals that AMSOIL synthetic oils are known for supporting. While conventional oils may require changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, AMSOIL’s superior thermal stability and resistance to shear allow for extended service periods. This means less frequent fluid changes, reduced oil consumption, and lower long-term maintenance costs. The additives in these synthetic oils are designed to keep engines cleaner by preventing sludge and varnish buildup, which is particularly beneficial for turbocharged engines where carbon deposits can quickly accumulate. For brake systems, a synthetic DOT 4 fluid offers a higher wet and dry boiling point than standard brake fluid, reducing the risk of brake fade during spirited driving sessions or heavy braking situations.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S represents the pinnacle of the C-Class performance line during its generation, featuring the highly anticipated 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, designated by the engine code 177.980. This powerplant marked a significant shift for the model, moving away from the naturally aspirated V8s of the past to a downsized, highly efficient, yet incredibly powerful V8 engine that produces over 500 horsepower. The “S” designation indicates the higher-output variant, delivering a thrilling driving dynamic that combines the daily usability of a luxury sedan with the raw aggression of a track-focused machine. The vehicle sits on a sophisticated chassis that allows for precise handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts who demand both comfort and performance.
Owners of the 2018 C63 AMG S often praise its ability to deliver consistent power delivery across the entire RPM range, a direct result of the twin-turbocharger setup which minimizes turbo lag. The 7-speed automatic transmission, often paired with this engine, is tuned for rapid shifts, enhancing the vehicle’s already impressive acceleration figures. The interior reflects Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, featuring high-quality materials and advanced technology that complements the raw performance under the hood. However, the intense performance capabilities of this vehicle place significant demands on its fluid systems, making the choice of lubricants a critical factor in ownership satisfaction.
There are specific maintenance challenges associated with this vehicle that can be effectively mitigated through the use of high-quality synthetic lubricants. One common concern for twin-turbo engines is the accumulation of carbon deposits on intake valves and pistons due to direct injection. The high-temperature stability and superior cleaning properties of AMSOIL motor oils help keep internal components cleaner, potentially delaying the onset of carbon buildup that can lead to rough idling or reduced power. Additionally, the high thermal output of the engine can degrade standard coolants over time, leading to corrosion in the cooling passages. Using a robust synthetic antifreeze prevents these chemical breakdowns and protects expensive aluminum components from rust and scaling. Another frequent issue in high-performance vehicles is the degradation of transmission fluid, which can lead to harsh shifting or premature wear in the clutch packs. A dedicated synthetic transmission fluid provides the necessary friction modifiers and thermal resistance to ensure smooth operation. Finally, brake fade during aggressive driving or track use is a known risk; synthetic brake fluid with a higher boiling point ensures consistent pedal feel and stopping power, preventing the loss of braking efficiency when the system is under extreme heat load.