2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's diagnostic port; this tool will provide specific error codes that can pinpoint the issue more accurately. Additionally, check the levels of critical fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also cause the light to illuminate. Don't overlook the battery; ensure it is functioning properly and securely connected, since battery issues can lead to similar warnings. Finally, take note of any other warning lights on the dashboard, as they may offer further clues about the underlying problem. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or an authorized Mercedes-Benz service center is advisable for a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S, it can indicate several common issues that DIYers should be aware of. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and negatively impact engine performance. Another simple yet often overlooked issue is a loose or damaged gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and reduced fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as clogs or failures, can trigger the light and affect overall engine function. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor may also be at fault, as it can mismeasure air intake, leading to performance issues. Furthermore, spark plug or ignition coil problems can cause engine misfires and rough idling, contributing to the check engine light's illumination. Lastly, an engine misfire, stemming from various factors like ignition system failures or fuel delivery issues, can also trigger this warning. For those looking to tackle these issues themselves, it's essential to diagnose the specific problem accurately, as addressing these common failures can help restore your vehicle's performance and ensure a smooth driving experience.

What immediate actions should be taken when the check engine light appears in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S, it is crucial to act swiftly to prevent further complications. Ignoring this warning can lead to significant safety risks and costly repairs down the line. Start by checking your dashboard for any additional indicators that may provide insight into the problem. A simple yet often overlooked step is to ensure that your gas cap is securely tightened, as a loose cap can trigger the light. If the light is flashing, it signals a more severe issue, and you should reduce your speed and avoid heavy loads immediately. While it may be tempting to attempt DIY repairs, modern vehicles are complex, and improper handling can exacerbate the problem. Instead, schedule a diagnostic check with a qualified mechanic who can accurately read the error codes and identify the root cause. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only ensures your vehicle's optimal performance but also safeguards your safety on the road.

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