Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S Has Rough Idle

Diagnosing the Causes of Rough Idle in Your Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
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 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S has rough idle?

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.

Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.

The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.

Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Brake rotors are mainly maintenance free, but when they have been subjected to abnormally hard use, the heat they absorb can cause the metal to turn blue, and cracking to occur. When this occurs, customers often specify they have lost braking power, or the vehicle's brakes are making noise. There may be no symptoms at all related to changing the brake rotors, since it is recommended to change brake rotors on most modern vehicles when performing a standard brake service.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by inspecting for vacuum leaks, as these can significantly disrupt engine performance. A simple visual check of hoses and connections can often reveal issues. Next, examine the spark plugs for signs of wear or damage; replacing them if necessary can lead to immediate improvements. Following this, test the ignition coils to ensure they are functioning correctly, as a failing coil can cause misfires and rough idling. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider cleaning or replacing the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor, as a dirty sensor can lead to incorrect air-fuel mixture readings. Additionally, inspect the fuel injectors for leaks, which can cause rough idling, particularly when the engine is cold. Finally, if problems persist, evaluate the condition of the PCV valve and O2 sensors, as these components can also impact engine performance. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the causes of rough idle, restoring your vehicle's smooth operation.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle Issues in a Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S

When dealing with rough idle issues in your Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the first things to check is the check engine light; if illuminated, it often points to issues with critical components such as the MAF sensor or fuel injectors. Misfiring cylinders are another frequent culprit, leading to noticeable engine performance issues and rough idling. A thorough idle vibration checklist can help you systematically identify the problem, focusing on ignition coils, spark plugs, and wiring. Additionally, while leaking 'o' rings may not directly cause rough idling, they can exacerbate other symptoms, particularly when parking on inclines. Corroded manifolds can introduce air leaks, resulting in lean codes that affect idle quality, especially in older vehicles. Furthermore, a leaky injector can create an overly rich fuel mixture, particularly noticeable when the engine is cold. Lastly, don’t overlook the MAP sensor; ensuring that vacuum hoses are correctly installed can prevent recurring idle issues. By methodically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve rough idle conditions in your C63 AMG S.

Why is a Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S a Cause for Urgent Attention?

A rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S should never be overlooked, as it can signal serious underlying problems that require immediate attention. Common culprits include vacuum leaks, faulty spark plugs, or malfunctioning ignition coils, all of which can lead to engine misfires and diminished performance. Ignoring these symptoms not only risks worsening the condition of your vehicle but can also result in increased emissions and reduced fuel efficiency. Moreover, a failing ignition coil can trigger the check engine light, potentially leaving you stranded if the engine stalls. By addressing a rough idle promptly, you can prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle operates at its best. For DIY enthusiasts, this means taking the time to diagnose the issue accurately and performing necessary repairs, which can save you both time and money while maintaining the reliability of your luxury vehicle.

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