17/06/2010
Embarking on a do-it-yourself (DIY) oil change for your Mercedes-Benz E63 or CLS can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it offer significant cost savings compared to dealership services, but it also grants you the satisfaction of knowing the job was done precisely to your standards. For many enthusiasts, the meticulous nature of maintaining a high-performance vehicle like the E63 or CLS is part of the ownership pleasure. This guide aims to demystify the process, addressing common concerns and providing a step-by-step walkthrough that ensures a successful and safe oil change.
A frequently asked question amongst new Mercedes owners, especially those accustomed to various car models, is whether there are multiple drain plugs to contend with on the E63 or CLS. Rest assured, for the engine shared by these models, there is typically one primary oil pan drain plug. While some vehicles might feature multiple drain points for different fluid systems or even specific engine sumps, for a standard engine oil change on your E63 or CLS, you'll be focusing on that single, crucial drain point on the oil pan. This guide will walk you through accessing it safely and efficiently.
Why Take the DIY Route for Your Mercedes Oil Change?
Beyond the immediate financial benefits, performing your own oil change offers several compelling advantages:
- Cost Savings: Dealership labour rates and parts markups can quickly add up. Doing it yourself allows you to purchase quality oil and filters at competitive prices.
- Quality Control: You get to choose the exact brand and specification of oil and filter, ensuring only the best components go into your engine. This is particularly important for high-performance engines like those found in the E63/CLS, which often require specific Mercedes-Benz approved oils.
- Understanding Your Vehicle: Getting underneath your car provides an invaluable opportunity to inspect other components, spot potential issues early, and simply gain a deeper understanding of your vehicle's mechanics.
- Satisfaction: There's a unique sense of accomplishment in successfully completing a maintenance task on your own car, fostering a stronger connection with your vehicle.
Safety First: Preparing for the Job
Before you even think about loosening a bolt, safety must be your absolute priority. Working under a vehicle carries inherent risks, and taking proper precautions is non-negotiable.
- Level Ground: Always work on a flat, level, and stable surface. This ensures the car is secure and prevents accidental rolling or shifting.
- Vehicle Elevation: As the original owner noted, finding suitable jack points on an E63/CLS can be tricky. While traditional jack stands are excellent for stability, accessing the primary jack points might require a low-profile jack. An excellent alternative, particularly for oil changes, is the use of sturdy automotive ramps, such as Rhino Ramps. Drive onto them slowly and carefully, ensuring the car is centred and fully settled before proceeding. Never rely solely on a jack to support the vehicle.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate gear. This includes sturdy work gloves to protect your hands from hot oil and sharp edges, and safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from splashes or debris.
- Hot Oil Warning: Engine oil, especially after the car has been driven, will be extremely hot. Exercise extreme caution when draining it. Splashes can cause severe burns.
Essential Tools and Supplies for Your E63/CLS Oil Change
Having the right tools at hand makes the process smoother and safer. Here’s what you'll need:
| Tool/Supply | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8mm Socket | Removing plastic under-pieces | Typically 10-12 nuts |
| 13mm Socket | Oil drain plug | |
| Torque Wrench | Tightening drain plug and oil filter housing | Crucial for correct tension |
| Oil Filter Wrench/Cap Wrench | Removing/installing oil filter housing | Specific size for Mercedes filters |
| Large Oil Drain Pan | Collecting old oil | At least 8-10 litre capacity |
| Funnel | Pouring new oil into engine | Prevents spills |
| Gloves | Protection from hot oil and grime | Nitrile or heavy-duty work gloves |
| Clean Rags/Shop Towels | Wiping spills and components | |
| New Crush Washer | For the drain plug | Essential for a leak-free seal |
| Engine Oil | New lubrication | Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Oil 5W-30 (or MB-approved equivalent, e.g., MB 229.5) – approximately 7-8 litres |
| New Oil Filter | Replacement filter element | Genuine Mercedes-Benz or high-quality OEM equivalent |
| Rhino Ramps or Jack & Stands | Vehicle elevation |
Step-by-Step E63/CLS Oil Change Procedure
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful oil change:
Step 1: Warm Up the Engine and Position the Vehicle
Firstly, drive your E63 or CLS for 10-15 minutes until the engine reaches its normal operating temperature, typically around 87-90 degrees Celsius. Warm oil flows more easily and carries more contaminants out with it. Once warm, carefully drive the car onto your Rhino Ramps, ensuring it's centred and stable. Engage the parking brake firmly.
Step 2: Access the Underbelly
Crawl safely under the front of the car. You'll need to remove two plastic under-pieces that protect the engine bay. Using your 8mm socket, carefully remove all the nuts holding these panels in place. There are usually around 10 nuts in total. Once the nuts are off, gently lower and slide the plastic pieces out of the way. Store them safely to avoid damage.
Step 3: Prepare for the Drain
Pop open the bonnet. Locate the large plastic engine cover with the Mercedes-Benz star – gently pull it up to remove it. Next, identify the oil filter housing. Using your oil filter wrench, carefully loosen the oil filter cap. As you unscrew it, pull out the entire oil filter element. Removing the filter at this stage allows the oil to drain more completely and prevents a vacuum from forming. You may also wish to remove the oil filler cap on top of the engine; this further aids in a quicker, more thorough drain.
Step 4: Drain the Old Oil
Position your large oil drain pan directly beneath the oil pan, ensuring it's centred under the drain plug. Using your 13mm socket, break loose the oil drain nut. Be aware that it will likely be very tight, especially if it hasn't been changed recently or was over-torqued previously. Once loose, slowly unscrew the nut by hand. As it comes free, be prepared for a sudden gush of hot oil. This is where your gloves are indispensable! Let the oil drain for a good half-hour or so to ensure as much of the old, contaminated oil as possible leaves the system.
Step 5: Replace the Oil Filter
While the oil is draining, turn your attention to the oil filter. Most new Mercedes oil filters come with new O-rings for the filter housing cap. Carefully remove the old O-rings from the cap and install the new ones, lightly lubricating them with a little fresh engine oil. Clean the oil filter cap thoroughly, removing any old oil residue. Insert the new oil filter element into the housing cap, ensuring it seats correctly. Once the oil has finished draining from the sump, screw the filter back into its original location and hand-tighten it, then use your oil filter wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque wrench setting. Do not overtighten.
Step 6: Close Up the Sump
With the oil fully drained, it’s time to replace the drain plug. Crucially, always use a new crush washer with the drain plug. This small, inexpensive component ensures a perfect, leak-free seal. Reinstall the drain plug, hand-tighten it, then use your 13mm socket and torque wrench to tighten it to the specified torque. Consult your owner's manual or a reliable service manual for the exact torque specification for your E63/CLS drain plug; it's typically around 30 Nm (22 lb-ft), but verify for your specific model. Wipe down the entire area around the drain plug to check for any immediate leaks.
Step 7: Refill with Fresh Oil
Back under the bonnet, place a clean funnel into the oil filler neck. Begin pouring in the new synthetic oil. The E63 and CLS models typically take around 7 to 8 litres of engine oil, but always refer to your owner's manual for the precise capacity. Pour slowly, especially towards the end, and check the oil dipstick frequently after every litre or so once you've added about 5 litres. Ensure you do not overfill. Once the level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick, replace the oil filler cap.
Step 8: Final Checks and Lowering
With the new oil in, start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. This allows the new oil to circulate throughout the engine and fill the new oil filter. While the engine is running, quickly check under the car for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter housing. If everything looks good, turn off the engine and wait about 5-10 minutes for the oil to settle back into the sump. Re-check the oil level on the dipstick on a level surface; adjust if necessary. Once you're satisfied, reattach the two plastic under-pieces using the 8mm nuts. Finally, carefully roll the car off the ramps.
Post-Service Considerations
- Oil Disposal: Never pour used engine oil down drains or into the ground. It is a hazardous waste. Most automotive parts stores, service stations, or local council recycling centres will accept used oil for proper disposal.
- Resetting Service Indicator: Your E63/CLS will likely have a service indicator light. Resetting this typically requires a specific sequence of button presses on the dashboard or a diagnostic scan tool. Consult your owner's manual for instructions.
- Monitor for Leaks: Over the next few days, keep an eye out for any oil spots under your car. Early detection of a leak can prevent more serious issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I change the oil in my E63/CLS?
Mercedes-Benz typically recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first, especially when using approved synthetic oil. However, if you drive under severe conditions (e.g., frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy towing), more frequent changes might be beneficial.
What type of oil is best for my E63/CLS?
Always use engine oil that meets Mercedes-Benz specifications, such as MB 229.5 or MB 229.51, depending on your specific engine and model year. These specifications ensure the oil is formulated to protect your high-performance engine. Consult your owner's manual for the exact required specification and viscosity (e.g., 5W-30).
Can I use jack stands instead of ramps?
Yes, jack stands are a perfectly valid and often preferred method for elevating a vehicle. However, ensure they are rated for the weight of your E63/CLS and are placed on solid, dedicated jack points on the vehicle's frame. Always use two jack stands positioned securely, and give the car a gentle shake to confirm stability before crawling underneath. For ultimate safety, never work under a car supported only by a jack.
What happens if I overfill the oil?
Overfilling can be as detrimental as underfilling. Too much oil can lead to aeration (foaming) by the crankshaft, which reduces lubrication effectiveness. It can also create excessive pressure, potentially damaging seals and gaskets, leading to costly leaks. Always aim for the oil level to be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
Do I really need a new crush washer every time?
Yes, absolutely. The crush washer (also known as a drain plug gasket) is designed to deform and create a tight seal when the drain plug is torqued down. Reusing an old, compressed washer significantly increases the risk of oil leaks. They are inexpensive and vital for a proper, leak-free seal.
By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well-equipped to perform a professional-quality oil change on your Mercedes-Benz E63 or CLS, ensuring its longevity and continued peak performance. Happy wrenching!
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