2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 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 steps to diagnose the check engine light issue in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG?

When diagnosing the check engine light issue in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by visually inspecting the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as a loose or damaged gas cap, which is a common trigger for the check engine light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to the vehicle's onboard diagnostic port; this tool will help you retrieve error codes that provide insight into the specific problems affecting your vehicle. Once you have the error codes, take the time to interpret them accurately, either by using a code reader or consulting a mechanic, as these codes can direct you to the malfunctioning system or component. Additionally, inspect critical sensors and components, such as the oxygen sensor and mass airflow sensor, for any signs of wear or damage, as these are frequent culprits. Don't forget to check the levels of essential fluids like oil and coolant, as low levels can also trigger the check engine light. If these steps do not lead to a resolution, or if the issue appears to be more complicated, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is advisable, as they possess the expertise and tools necessary for a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the underlying issues causing the check engine light to illuminate in your Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems associated with this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency. If this sensor malfunctions, it can lead to incorrect readings and trigger the check engine light. Another simple yet often overlooked issue is a loose or damaged gas cap; ensuring it is securely fastened can sometimes resolve the warning light. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or inefficiencies, can also cause the light to illuminate, indicating that the exhaust system may need attention. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, which measures the amount of air entering the engine, can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to performance issues, further triggering the light. Furthermore, issues with spark plugs or ignition coils can result in misfires, causing the engine to run poorly and activating the check engine light. Lastly, an engine misfire, which can stem from various factors including faulty fuel injectors, is a significant concern that should be addressed promptly. By being aware of these common problems, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing the issue, potentially saving time and money before seeking professional assistance.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and compromised engine performance, which may escalate into more severe mechanical failures. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can pinpoint the underlying issue. This initial diagnosis can guide you in determining whether the problem is something manageable, like a loose gas cap, or more complex, requiring professional intervention. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only helps maintain your vehicle's performance but also safeguards against costly repairs down the line. Therefore, taking action as soon as the light appears is crucial for the longevity and reliability of your Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG.

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