2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light On in 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 G65 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 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 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 initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG, the first step is to visually inspect the gas cap, ensuring it is securely fastened and free from damage, as a loose cap can often trigger the warning. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to the vehicle's diagnostic port; this tool will retrieve error codes that indicate specific issues within the car's systems. Pay close attention to these codes, as they can guide you to the root of the problem, whether it relates to the engine, transmission, or emissions. Additionally, check the levels of essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. A thorough inspection of the wiring and connections in the engine bay is crucial; look for any signs of damage or corrosion that could affect sensor performance. If these steps do not resolve the issue or if the error codes are unclear, it may be time to consult a qualified mechanic or an authorized Mercedes-Benz service center for a more in-depth diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light due to its impact on the vehicle's emissions system. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to consider the oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency and emissions control. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to poor performance and should be inspected. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, often indicating a failure that needs immediate attention. Spark plugs and ignition coils are other critical components; if they are faulty, they can cause engine misfires, resulting in the light turning on. Another area to investigate is the mass airflow sensor, as its malfunction can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, affecting overall engine performance. Lastly, issues with the thermostat or the EGR valve can also lead to the check engine light being activated, signaling potential overheating or poor engine performance. Addressing these common problems promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's health and performance, making it a worthwhile endeavor for any DIY mechanic.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 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 costly repairs. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the urgency of this situation is crucial. The check engine light often indicates underlying issues with the engine or emissions system that, if left unaddressed, could result in significant damage over time. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a preliminary diagnostic check using an OBD-II scanner, which can provide insights into the specific trouble codes triggering the light. This proactive approach not only helps in identifying the problem but also empowers you to make informed decisions about necessary repairs. Ultimately, addressing the check engine light promptly is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle, ensuring that you can enjoy the performance and reliability that the G65 AMG is known for.

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2016 Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG Check Engine Light Guide