Mercedes E63 AMG W213 Tuning Guide

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG W213, introduced in 2017, is already a high-performance vehicle straight from the factory. However, for those looking to enhance its performance further, tuning can provide noticeable improvements. The E63 AMG W213 can be tuned in several ways, with the most common modifications being ECU tuning and hardware upgrades. This guide focuses on Stage 1 and Stage 2 tuning, which are the most practical and accessible options for many owners.

Check out the full range of performance/aftermarket products for your E63 W213 here

Stage 1 Tuning

Stage 1 tuning is the most straightforward and least invasive form of modification. It typically involves an ECU (Engine Control Unit) remap, which optimises the car’s performance without requiring significant hardware changes.

ECU Remap

An ECU remap is the key component of Stage 1 tuning. This involves adjusting the vehicle's engine management software to increase power output and improve throttle response. The ECU remap optimises the air-fuel ratio, boost pressure, and ignition timing, providing more power from the engine without altering the physical components.

For the E63 AMG W213, a Stage 1 tune can increase power by up to 80-100 bhp, depending on the tuning company and specific remap applied. In addition to the increase in horsepower, you may also experience a slight improvement in torque, typically around 100-150 Nm, which improves acceleration and overall drivability.

Stage 1 tuning is relatively simple to execute, and most reputable tuners can carry it out without needing to replace or upgrade any hardware. It’s important to ensure that the ECU remap is performed by a professional with experience in tuning AMG vehicles, as improper mapping can affect engine longevity and performance.

Benefits of Stage 1 Tuning

• Increased horsepower and torque
• Improved throttle response and acceleration
• Minimal risk to engine reliability
• No significant modifications required to the engine or hardware

Stage 1 tuning is often the most cost-effective way to enhance the E63 AMG’s performance while maintaining a reasonable level of reliability. It is also one of the safest tuning options, as it doesn’t push the engine beyond its factory limits.

Stage 2 Tuning

Stage 2 tuning builds on the foundation of Stage 1, often involving more hardware modifications in addition to the ECU remap. Stage 2 tuning aims to extract more power from the engine by improving airflow and increasing the efficiency of key engine components.

Hardware Upgrades for Stage 2

To achieve the gains seen in Stage 2 tuning, the following hardware modifications are typically required:

• Performance Exhaust System: Replacing the factory exhaust with a performance-oriented system can improve airflow, reduce backpressure, and enhance the engine’s ability to breathe. This often results in both power gains and a more aggressive exhaust note.
• Upgraded Intake System: A high-flow intake system can increase the volume of air entering the engine, improving combustion efficiency. This upgrade complements the performance exhaust system and helps the engine take in more air, allowing for better performance at higher power levels. Check them out here
• Chargecooler Upgrade: An upgraded chargecooler is essential for Stage 2 tuning. The chargecooler's role is to cool the air coming from the turbochargers before it enters the engine, ensuring that the air-fuel mixture is at the optimal temperature for combustion. Upgrading the chargecooler can help maintain power and efficiency under increased performance conditions. JXL Performance recommends the Wagner Tuning E63 (S) W213 Radiator Kit
• ECU Remap (Stage 2): The ECU remap for Stage 2 is more aggressive than the Stage 1 tune, taking into account the improved airflow from the upgraded intake and exhaust systems. The ECU will be reprogrammed to allow for higher boost pressure and more aggressive ignition timing, resulting in more power and torque.

Stage 2 tuning on the E63 AMG W213 can result in power gains of 100-150 bhp over the factory output, depending on the quality of the upgrades and the specific tuning applied. The increase in torque can be significant, often surpassing 800 Nm, which provides a noticeable improvement in performance, particularly at higher speeds.

Benefits of Stage 2 Tuning

• Significant increase in horsepower and torque
• Improved throttle response and engine efficiency
• Enhanced engine sound, particularly with the upgraded exhaust system
• Better performance at higher RPMs

However, Stage 2 tuning does carry some additional considerations. The power increase can place additional stress on the engine and drivetrain, so it’s important to ensure that components such as the transmission, cooling system, and brakes are in good condition and capable of handling the extra performance. Regular monitoring and maintenance will be key to ensuring the longevity of the vehicle after Stage 2 modifications.

Considerations for Stage 3 and Beyond

While it is possible to take the E63 AMG W213 to even higher levels of performance with more extensive modifications, including hybrid or large turbochargers, it is important to understand that these upgrades carry significant risks and costs. Increasing the size of the turbos or adding hybrid units can result in substantial power gains, but they also place greater stress on the engine, often requiring reinforcing components to handle the increased power. This level of modification can also lead to more frequent maintenance and higher overall costs, making it less practical for most owners.

Engine Reliability Risks

It is worth noting that pushing the engine beyond its factory limits, especially with hybrid turbos or larger turbochargers, can increase the risk of engine failure. These modifications require careful tuning, and without the proper engine reinforcements, the likelihood of mechanical failure increases significantly. For most E63 AMG W213 owners, Stage 1 and Stage 2 tuning offers a balance of performance and reliability without the substantial costs and risks associated with more extreme modifications.

Conclusion

Tuning the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG W213 can bring substantial performance improvements. Stage 1 tuning is a simple and cost-effective way to increase horsepower and torque without significant hardware changes. Stage 2 tuning builds on this by introducing performance exhaust systems, upgraded intake components, and a more aggressive ECU remap, resulting in more power and improved overall performance. While Stage 1 and Stage 2 are the most practical and reliable tuning options, owners looking for more extreme upgrades should be aware of the associated risks and costs. With proper tuning, the E63 AMG W213 can offer an enhanced driving experience without compromising reliability.