Mercedes/M157

Mercedes · Naturally aspirated

M157

CL63 AMG·C216·2010–2014

"These cars have cylinder scoring issues and harness issues. I would still advise anyone to get a warranty on a used AMG regardless."

RISKY

58/ 100

"Fast, brutal, and expensive to own"

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Max HP

—

Torque Nm

8,000

Oil interval km

Recalls

Known issues

Known Issues

Timing Chain and Balance Shaft Failure€3,000-8,000 · 80,000-160,000 kmCRITICAL

The M157 is known to suffer from timing chain sprocket wear and balance shaft failures. When the timing mechanism fails it can cause bent intake valves and camshaft sync loss, leading to catastrophic engine damage.

Rattling noise on cold start

Misfires

Engine warning lights

Loss of power

Bent valves at failure

DIY: Expert only

Cylinder Scoring€5,000-15,000 · 60,000-150,000 kmCRITICAL

The M157 is specifically cited by the community as prone to cylinder bore scoring, particularly when not driven hard enough to keep rings seated, or due to insufficient oil maintenance. Can result in full engine rebuild or replacement.

Increased oil consumption

Blue smoke on acceleration

Loss of compression

Rough running

DIY: Expert only

Cam Solenoid (Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid) Failure€300-900 · 60,000-120,000 kmHIGH

Cam solenoids are among the most commonly replaced components on the M157. They affect variable valve timing operation and can cause rough running, misfires and fault codes when they fail.

Check engine light

Rough idle

Misfires

Poor throttle response

DIY: Moderate

Valve Timing Cover Oil Leak€400-1,200 · 50,000-120,000 kmHIGH

The valve timing cover (part A2760150201) is a known leak point on the M157. Located at the front of the engine, it is accessible once the air intakes are removed. Considered a widespread and well-documented issue.

Oil residue at front of engine

Oil smell from engine bay

Visible seepage around timing cover

DIY: Moderate

Wiring Harness Deterioration€800-2,500 · 80,000-180,000 kmHIGH

Community reports specifically flag harness issues as one of the two main problem areas on the M157. Wiring insulation can crack and fail, causing intermittent faults, misfires and sensor errors.

Intermittent warning lights

Random misfires

Unexplained sensor faults

Electrical gremlins

DIY: Hard

Thermostat Failure€200-600 · 60,000-120,000 kmMODERATE

Thermostats are listed among the most commonly replaced items on the M157. Failure can cause overheating or running too cold, both of which accelerate engine wear.

Temperature gauge irregularities

Overheating

Engine running cold

Poor fuel economy

DIY: Moderate

Buying Checklist

Commission a leak-down and compression test on all 8 cylinders to check for cylinder scoring before purchase

Start the engine cold and listen carefully for timing chain rattle during the first 10-15 seconds

Remove air intake ducting and visually inspect the front timing cover for oil leaks

Run a full OBD-II diagnostic scan to check for camshaft solenoid, timing, and wiring fault codes

Verify full documented service history with oil changes no longer than 8,000 km intervals using approved spec oil

Inspect the engine wiring harness visually for cracked or brittle insulation, especially near heat sources

Service Reality

Community oil interval8,000 km

Oil specificationMercedes-Benz 229.5 or 229.51 approved 0W-40 or 5W-40 fully synthetic

Est. ownership cost (2yr)€3,000–6,000 per year including routine maintenance, consumables and provision for known high-risk components

Real fuel consumptionNo data

Also Found In

Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG (W212)Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG (W221/W222)Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG (W166)Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG (X166)Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG (R231)Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG (W463)

Buying Advice

The CL63 AMG M157 is a high-performance vehicle with well-known mechanical vulnerabilities that must be respected, not ignored. Timing chain, cylinder scoring, and harness issues can turn this car into a money pit if you buy the wrong example or maintain it incorrectly. Only buy with full documented service history, a clean compression test, and ideally an extended third-party warranty in place. Budget a minimum of €3,000–5,000 per year for maintenance and unexpected repairs if you want to enjoy it without financial stress.

Parts People Buy

M157 Cam Solenoid / Camshaft Adjuster SolenoidLink unavailable

M157 Valve Timing Cover Gasket SetLink unavailable

M157 ThermostatLink unavailable

0W-40 Fully Synthetic Engine Oil MB 229.5Link unavailable

M157 Timing Chain KitLink unavailable

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