Cylinder Scoring Diagnosis - 2017 AMG Mercedes-Benz W213 E63 S

The Mercedes-AMG E63 S is not an ordinary sedan. The 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 is a serious performance engine, delivering immense power while maintaining refinement. That is why this job stood out.

What began as a routine spark plug inspection quickly turned into something far more concerning.

From Spark Plug Check to Cylinder Inspection

During a standard spark plug check, something did not look right. Rather than ignore it, we took the extra step.

When we have the opportunity, we prefer to inspect properly rather than assume. A borescope camera was inserted into the cylinder to take a closer look.

What we found in cylinder 3 was clear evidence of cylinder wall scoring.

What Is Cylinder Scoring?

Cylinder scoring is vertical damage to the cylinder wall surface. It can be caused by:

• Oil starvation

• Debris in the combustion chamber

• Piston or ring wear

• Excessive heat or detonation

In high-performance engines like the AMG M177 V8, tolerances are tight and operating conditions are extreme. Any abnormal wear at low mileage raises concerns.

Why This Is Concerning

The vehicle has relatively low kilometres, so this type of wear is not something you would typically expect to see.

At this stage, the scoring does not appear catastrophic. However, cylinder wall damage rarely improves over time. Left unaddressed, it can lead to:

• Increased oil consumption

• Loss of compression

• Blow-by

• Further internal damage

• Reduced engine lifespan

For an owner planning to keep the car long-term, this is something that needs to be monitored closely and discussed properly.

The Importance of Thorough Diagnosis

Many workshops would have stopped at the spark plug check. We prefer to confirm what is happening internally when something does not look right.

Using a borescope allowed us to verify the condition of the cylinder wall and provide the owner with accurate information rather than speculation.

Performance engines deserve careful inspection, especially when early signs of internal wear appear.

What Happens Next?

The next steps depend on the owner’s plans:

• Ongoing monitoring

• Oil analysis

• Compression and leak-down testing

• Engine repair or rebuild planning if symptoms worsen

The key point is awareness. Catching something early provides options. Ignoring it removes them.

AMG Engines Require Proper Care

The W213 E63 S is an incredible machine. When maintained properly, it delivers exceptional performance. But like any high-output engine, it demands proper servicing, correct oil specification, and careful monitoring.

If you own a Mercedes-AMG and want a workshop that takes the extra step to inspect properly and diagnose accurately, speak to us.

We treat every engine as if it were our own.