What's the Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG like?

I am in the process of buying a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG with 90,000km on the clock. I love the M156 engine and the sound it makes and want to keep this car for good, but I don't know the average life expectancy of these engines or cars. Would you please provide me with your usual expert opinion on the concerns I have about this stupendous car? Would the 2011 ML 63 AMG or the ML 500 still have spare parts in 10 years from now? If I decide to keep this car for good, could it be repaired should something go wrong in 10 years' time?

David Jackson (Lubumbashi)

Mar 2017 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi David,

There are no major reported reliability problems for the AMG M156 V8 engine, other than that they can occasionally develop issues with the bolts that hold the engine head in place. Mind you, a huge amount will depend on how well the previous owner looked after it. While reliable, AMGs are of course bought for their high performance, and if the previous owner has thrashed it about, or not kept it serviced properly, then it could be troublesome. A full book of service stamps should be a good sign, though.

As for spare parts, I really wouldn't worry too much about that, as car makers produce spare parts for a very long time after a vehicle goes out of production.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe