Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Get Quotes
Get quotes today from trusted UK Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used M279 V12 twin-turbo engines - supply & fit available nationwide for this ultra-rare AMG flagship.
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Variant History
Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The Mercedes Benz G 65 AMG represents the absolute pinnacle of G-Class engine offerings - a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 that transformed the boxy off-roader into a 630hp luxury performance icon. With fewer than 500 units produced globally, the G 65 AMG remains one of the rarest and most coveted G-Class variants ever built.
2012
G 65 AMG introduced, M279.982 6.0L V12 twin-turbo, 604hp (612 PS), 1,001Nm torque, 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS
2015
Power output increased to 621hp (630 PS / 463kW), 1,001Nm torque, US market launch
2015
2018 - Production continues with V12 unchanged, 7G-TRONIC transmission, full-time 4WD
2018
G 65 AMG Final Edition produced (65 units), featuring bronze 21-inch wheels, marking the end of V12 G-Class production
The M279 V12 engine fitted to the Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points from real owner experience of this ultra-rare powerplant.
Engine Codes & Pricing
Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG Engine Codes Specifications & Replacement Cost
Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.
M279.982 — 6.0L V12 Twin-Turbo (2012-2018)
Power Output
604-621 hp (450-463 kW)
Torque
1,001 Nm (738 lb-ft) @ 2,300-4,300 rpm
Displacement
5,980cc (6.0L)
Configuration
V12, twin-turbocharged, DOHC with variable valve timing
Compression Ratio
9.0:1
Years Fitted
2012-2018
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Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG Engine Problems Repair Cost vs Replacement
The Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG relies on the M279 V12 twin-turbo - an engine of extraordinary complexity and capability. While fundamentally robust when properly maintained, the V12's intricate systems have developed well-documented reputations for specific, expensive failures. Turbocharger failure, intercooler leaks, ignition coil degradation, and oil leaks dominate replacement demand. Every rebuilt engine supplied through EnginesMarket includes upgraded components designed to address the original failure point - plus a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty. Below we break down the most common G 65 AMG engine failures, what they cost to fix, and when replacement is the smarter financial decision.
Common failure points and repair options
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M279 Turbocharger Failure
Affected
Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG (M279.982, 2012-2018)
Typical failure mileage
40,000 - 70,000 miles
Root cause
The twin-turbocharged V12 generates immense heat, which can cause oil seals to degrade and turbocharger bearings to wear prematurely. Excessive heat, oil contamination, or worn-out seals cause the turbos to fail. When this happens, owners may notice a loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, or a loud whining noise from the engine bay. Vacuum lines and wastegate actuators also tend to wear out over time, affecting turbo performance.
Repair options
Repair tier
Dealer price
Specialist price
Minor - Turbo Seal & Actuator Repair
£2,500-£3,500
£1,500-£2,500
Major - Twin Turbocharger Replacement
£6,000-£9,000
£4,000-£6,000
Full Replacement - Rebuilt Engine
£25,000-£35,000
£15,000-£25,000
Our recommendation
On a G 65 AMG worth £80,000-£150,000+, specialist turbocharger repair at £1,500-£2,500 is the obvious first step if caught early. Dealer pricing is significantly inflated for this repair. However, if the failure has caused turbo debris to enter the engine (metal particles in oil), you must go straight to full engine replacement - ignoring this risks complete bottom end failure within 1,000 miles.
Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG (M279.982, 2012-2018)
Typical failure mileage
30,000 - 60,000 miles
Root cause
The G 65 AMG produces immense power, generating excessive heat that places the cooling system under constant stress. Intercooler leaks reduce the efficiency of the turbo system, causing reduced boost pressure, sluggish acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Radiator leaks (the radiator is made with a mix of aluminium and plastic that degrades over time) and water pump failure are also common.
Repair options
Repair tier
Dealer price
Specialist price
Minor - Coolant System Inspection & Thermostat
£600-£1,000
£400-£700
Major - Intercooler Replacement
£3,000-£4,500
£2,000-£3,000
Major - Radiator & Water Pump Replacement
£2,500-£3,500
£1,800-£2,500
Full Replacement - Rebuilt Engine
£25,000-£35,000
£15,000-£25,000
Our recommendation
The cooling system on the M279 V12 is critical to engine longevity. If you notice reduced boost pressure, sluggish acceleration, or coolant loss, have the intercoolers and cooling system inspected immediately. Specialist replacement is significantly cheaper than dealer pricing and far less expensive than a full engine rebuild. Don't ignore coolant loss - overheating a V12 can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG (M279.982, 2012-2018)
Typical failure mileage
40,000 - 80,000 miles
Root cause
The V12's ignition coils are exposed to significant heat from the engine and can fail, leading to misfires, poor fuel consumption, and a lack of power. Oil leaks from degraded seals and gaskets are also common on higher-mileage V12 engines. Carbon buildup in the intake system due to direct fuel injection causes rough idling, power loss, and misfires.
Repair options
Repair tier
Dealer price
Specialist price
Minor - Ignition Coil Replacement (Set of 12)
£1,500-£2,500
£900-£1,500
Minor - Intake Valve Cleaning
£800-£1,200
£500-£800
Intermediate - Full Top-End Reseal
£3,000-£4,500
£2,000-£3,000
Full Replacement - Rebuilt Engine
£25,000-£35,000
£15,000-£25,000
Our recommendation
The M279 V12's ignition coils are a known weak point due to heat exposure. Replacing all 12 coils as a preventative measure at 60,000 miles is recommended - doing individual coils as they fail leads to repeated workshop visits and potential engine damage from misfires. For oil leaks, address them early; V12 oil leaks can quickly become expensive if left unchecked.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG
A failed V12 engine doesn't have to mean the end of your G 65 AMG. Whether you're dealing with turbocharger failure, intercooler leaks, ignition coil issues, or oil leaks, EnginesMarket makes it simple to compare prices from trusted UK Mercedes Benz G Class specialists. Every rebuilt M279 V12 engine in our network includes upgraded components designed to address the original failure point, a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty, and nationwide delivery with supply & fit options available.
Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Everything Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG owners usually ask before choosing a rebuilt, reconditioned or used replacement engine.
A Mercedes G Class G 65 AMG engine replacement typically costs between £15,000 and £25,000 depending on condition type and whether fitting is included. M279 V12 twin-turbo units range from £15,000 to £25,000 supply only.
Rebuilt M279 V12 (G 65 AMG): £15,000-£25,000 supply only
Reconditioned units: £12,000-£18,000
Used engines from breakers: £8,500-£14,000 but higher risk
Labour for supply & fit adds £1,500-£3,000 to any engine price
The M279 V12 is a masterpiece of engineering but requires meticulous maintenance. It is generally reliable when properly maintained, but has several well-documented issues.
Turbocharger failure due to heat and oil contamination
Intercooler leaks causing reduced boost pressure
Ignition coil failures due to heat exposure
Oil leaks from degraded seals and gaskets
Regular maintenance with correct 0W-40 oil and 5,000-7,000 mile intervals is critical
Repair if the failure is isolated (e.g., turbo seals, ignition coils, intercooler). Replace if there's bottom end damage, bore scoring, or catastrophic turbo failure that has sent debris through the engine.
Turbo seal/actuator repair: £1,500-£2,500 - excellent value if caught early
We strongly advise against DIY fitting on a G 65 AMG. The complex 4MATIC system, twin-turbo V12 plumbing, gearbox alignment, and ECU coding requirements demand specialist equipment and expertise.
4MATIC transfer case alignment requires specialist knowledge
Twin-turbo V12 system requires precise reassembly
ECU coding and immobiliser synchronisation needed
Specialist supply & fit costs £1,500-£3,000 - essential for a V12 AMG
Every engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty, with many specialists offering 24-month coverage on M279 V12 rebuilds. This includes parts and labour for any manufacturing defect or installation error.
12-month unlimited mileage is the minimum standard
M279 V12 rebuilds often include 24-month warranty
All warranties cover parts, labour, and MOT compliance
Extended warranties available at point of purchase
Compare Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG V12 Engine Prices Today
Comparing quotes for your Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG engine replacement is completely free and carries no obligation - enter your registration above, receive tailored prices from UK specialists who know the M279 V12 twin-turbo engine inside out, and get back on the road with confidence. Every rebuilt engine is backed by a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.
100+100+ AMG V12 engines supplied through our network
12-Month12-Month Warranty on every rebuilt G 65 AMG engine
Compare quotes from trusted UK Mercedes Benz G Class G 65 AMG engine specialists with warranty-backed rebuilt, reconditioned and used options nationwide.