2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 S63 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 S63 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. If the cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes from the vehicle's computer. These codes provide specific insights into what might be malfunctioning. Additionally, take a moment to inspect the dashboard for any other warning lights, as they can offer further clues about the underlying problem. It's also wise to check the levels of essential fluids, including oil and coolant, as low levels can affect engine performance. Furthermore, examining the condition of the spark plugs can reveal issues that may impact engine efficiency. Lastly, a visual inspection of the engine bay for any signs of damage or wear can help identify potential problems. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and determine the best course of action for repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, it can be a source of concern for any car owner. Understanding the common problems that may cause this warning light to illuminate is crucial for effective troubleshooting. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a vital role in monitoring the vehicle's emissions and fuel efficiency. Another simple yet often overlooked issue is a loose or damaged gas cap; ensuring it is securely fastened can sometimes resolve the problem. Additionally, catalytic converter issues can arise, leading to inefficiencies that trigger the light. Worn-out spark plugs are also a common concern, as they can affect engine performance and emissions. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in the check engine light activating. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in maintaining the vehicle's performance but also prevents further complications down the line. For those inclined to DIY, starting with these common problems can provide a solid foundation for diagnosing the check engine light's cause.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more severe problems. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the implications of ignoring this light is crucial. Continuing to drive with the check engine light on can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and performance, and may even cause significant engine damage over time. The sophisticated onboard diagnostics in modern vehicles can help identify the root cause of the issue, making it easier for you to troubleshoot. However, while DIY diagnostics can be a rewarding challenge, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic or dealership for a thorough inspection to ensure that any necessary repairs are accurately addressed. By taking prompt action, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also prevent potentially costly repairs in the future.

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