Upgrading the intake system on a Mercedes-AMG W205 C63 is one of the most rewarding modifications you can make. The factory airbox, while adequate for stock power levels, creates restrictions that limit airflow as engine speeds rise. Swapping to a Macht Schnell cold air intake reduces intake restriction, lowers intake air temperatures, and unlocks a deeper, more aggressive induction note. This guide walks through every step of the installation, from tool preparation to final start-up, so you can complete the job with confidence.

Why Choose a Macht Schnell Cold Air Intake for the W205 C63?

The Macht Schnell intake system is purpose-built for the M177 engine found in the C63 AMG. It replaces the restrictive factory airbox with a pair of high-flow filters mounted inside sealed heat shields. Key benefits include:

  • Increased airflow – The dual-cone filters flow significantly more air than the stock panel filters, supporting higher horsepower targets.
  • Lower intake temperatures – The heat shields isolate the filters from radiant heat produced by the engine and turbochargers, maintaining denser, cooler air for combustion.
  • Improved throttle response – Reduced restriction means the engine breathes more freely, sharpening accelerator pedal response.
  • Aggressive sound – The open-element filters amplify the natural sound of the twin-turbo V8, especially during hard acceleration.

For owners seeking a reliable, well-engineered intake that delivers measurable gains without check-engine lights, the Macht Schnell kit is a strong choice.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting, gather all tools and supplies. Having everything on hand prevents unnecessary trips to the toolbox mid-installation.

Hand Tools

  • Metric socket set (8mm, 10mm, 13mm) – deep sockets helpful for bolts in tight locations
  • Ratchet with extensions (3-inch and 6-inch)
  • Flathead screwdriver (medium size) – for prying clips
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Torque wrench (25–50 Nm range)
  • Trim removal tool (optional but helps prevent scratching plastic panels)

Materials and Shop Supplies

  • New Macht Schnell Cold Air Intake kit (verify it includes both heat shields, filters, couplers, clamps, and mounting brackets)
  • Clean shop towels or microfiber cloths
  • Safety glasses
  • Thread-locking compound (medium strength, optional for peace of mind on bracket bolts)
  • Small amount of silicone spray (helps slide hoses onto throttle body)

Preparation: Safety First

Park the C63 on a level surface and allow the engine to cool completely – the intake components and turbocharger area can remain hot for an hour after shutdown. Disconnect the battery’s negative terminal to prevent accidental electrical contact while disconnecting sensors. Wear safety glasses to avoid debris falling into your eyes when removing clips or loosening clamps.

Open the hood and inspect the existing intake layout. Note the routing of the mass airflow (MAF) sensor harness and the vacuum lines connected to the factory airbox. Take a reference photo if needed – this helps when reassembling.

Step 1: Remove the Engine Cover

The decorative plastic engine cover sits atop the intake manifold. Locate the five or six Torx (T30) bolts securing it (exact count varies by model year). Using a socket or Torx driver, remove each bolt and set them in a container. Lift the cover straight upward – it may require gentle wiggling to free it from alignment pins. Set the cover aside in a safe place.

Tip: Place the bolts back into the cover’s holes temporarily so they don’t get misplaced.

Step 2: Disconnect the Factory Air Intake System

The W205 C63 uses two separate airboxes, one on each side of the engine bay. Start on the driver’s side (left-hand drive cars).

Disconnect the MAF Sensor

Locate the mass airflow sensor on the factory intake tube near the airbox. Press the release tab on the connector and pull it straight off. Do not yank on the wiring – the tab must be fully depressed. If it resists, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the locking tab outward.

Loosen Intake Tube Clamps

Using a 8mm socket or flathead screwdriver, loosen the clamps securing the intake tube to the throttle body and to the airbox. There is one clamp at the throttle body (often a spring clamp) and another at the airbox outlet. If a spring clamp is present, squeeze the ears with pliers and slide it up the tube to free it.

Remove the Stock Intake Tube

Once clamps are loose, twist the intake tube gently to break the seal and pull it free. Set it aside. Repeat the same process on the passenger side – note that the passenger side tube may have an additional resonator or secondary MAF sensor depending on model year.

Step 3: Remove the Factory Airboxes

Each airbox is secured by two or three bolts (10mm or 13mm) into mounting points on the chassis. Carefully remove the bolts with a socket and extension. Lift the lower portion of the airbox upward, tilting it slightly to clear the fender liner and coolant reservoir. The passenger side box may be wedged near the secondary air injection pump – work it out slowly to avoid breaking any plastic tabs.

Remove the stock air filters from the boxes – these are disposable and will not be reused. Clean any debris from the inside of the airbox location using a shop towel or vacuum.

Step 4: Install the Macht Schnell Cold Air Intake Heat Shields and Filters

Lay all Macht Schnell components on a clean surface and verify the parts list against the kit instruction sheet. The kit typically includes:

  • Two aluminum or composite heat shields
  • Two high-flow cone filters (pre-oiled or dry, depending on your order)
  • Two silicone couplers
  • Four stainless steel clamps (two per side)
  • Two MAF sensor adapter plates (if the kit relocates the sensor)
  • Hardware (bolts, nuts, washers)

Mount the Heat Shields

Position the heat shield on the driver’s side, aligning it with the existing mounting points. Secure it using the supplied bolts. Do not fully tighten until both sides are in position. Then, using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specification (typically 8–10 Nm for small hardware, 18–20 Nm for larger bolts).

Common fitment note: The heat shield may contact the coolant expansion tank or the fuse box cover on some model years. If clearance is tight, adjust the shield position slightly before final tightening.

Install the Cone Filters

If the kit includes dry filters, install them directly onto the MAF adapter or intake tube. If the filters are pre-oiled, handle them with care – excessive oil can contaminate the MAF sensor. Place the filter over the tube, using a clamp to secure it. Position the clamp at the filter’s base, not over the cotton pleats.

Connect the Silicone Couplers to the Throttle Bodies

Slide a clamp over each coupler, then push the coupler onto the throttle body opening. Ensure it seats fully – you may need to apply silicone spray to the inside of the coupler for easier installation. Slide the other end of the coupler over the Macht Schnell intake tube or filter adapter. Hand-tighten the clamps initially, leaving enough play to rotate the tube for alignment.

Step 5: Reconnect the Mass Airflow Sensors

On each side, plug the MAF sensor(s) back into the harness connector. Listen for a positive click. If the kit relocates the sensor to a new position (common on some W205 applications), ensure the sensor seats correctly in its adapter. Apply a tiny drop of dielectric grease to the electrical contacts to prevent corrosion.

Important: If the Macht Schnell kit includes a MAF sensor extension harness, route it away from exhaust components and sharp edges. Secure with zip ties to the factory harness.

Step 6: Secure All Components and Double-Check Fitment

Now go back and tighten all clamps with a ratchet or screwdriver. Follow these torque guidelines:

  • Throttle body coupler clamp: 4–5 Nm or until snug (do not overtighten – silicone can deform if crushed)
  • Filter clamps: 2–3 Nm (just enough to prevent filter from slipping off)
  • Heat shield mounting bolts: as specified in Macht Schnell instructions (typically 8–10 Nm)

Ensure no hoses, wiring, or vacuum lines are pinched between components. Spin the engine fan by hand (with the engine off) to confirm adequate clearance between the filter intake and fan blades – a common interference point.

Step 7: Replace the Engine Cover or Install Modified Cover

Optionally, you can reinstall the factory engine cover. On the W205 C63, the stock cover may still fit over the heat shields, though some owners choose to leave it off for a more aggressive under-hood look and better engine bay heat dissipation. If you reinstall it, align the cover’s grommets with the mounting studs on the intake manifold and push down firmly. Reinstall the Torx bolts and tighten to 8 Nm.

If the cover does not sit flush due to clearance with the new intake tubes, trim the plastic cover slightly using a rotary tool or simply leave it off.

Step 8: Perform Final Checks

Inspect every connection, clamp, and harness. Look for any tools, rags, or loose bolts left in the engine bay. Reconnect the battery’s negative terminal. Turn the key to the “on” position without starting the engine – listen for the fuel pump prime, then check for any diagnostic lights on the dashboard. Clear any codes that may have appeared during disconnection (disconnecting the battery will clear them automatically).

Step 9: Start the Engine and Verify Operation

Start the engine. It may idle slightly high for a few seconds as the ECU relearns air/fuel ratios. Let it idle for two to three minutes. Check for audible air leaks (hissing or whistling sounds) near the couplers and filter seals. If a leak is present, tighten the suspect clamp slightly. Monitor the mass airflow sensor readings via a scan tool if available – values should be within the expected range (roughly 3–6 g/s per side at warm idle).

Take a short test drive at moderate throttle. The intake sound will be noticeably louder, especially between 2,500 and 5,000 rpm. Listen for any drivability issues such as hesitation or surging – these can indicate a vacuum leak or incorrect MAF sensor installation.

Post-Installation Tuning Considerations

A cold air intake alone may not require a full custom tune, but the ECU will need time to adapt its fuel trims. Drive the car normally for 50 to 100 miles to allow adaptive learning. For maximum performance gains, especially if paired with other modifications (downpipes, exhaust, intercooler), consider a tune from a reputable shop such as Eurocharged, Renntech, or Weistec. Some tuners offer off-the-shelf files optimized for the Macht Schnell intake.

Without a tune, you can still expect a gain of approximately 10–15 horsepower and 8–12 lb-ft of torque at the wheels on the W205 C63. These figures vary with ambient temperature and fuel quality.

Maintenance of the Macht Schnell Intake

To keep your intake performing at its best, follow these maintenance steps:

  • Clean or replace filters every 30,000 miles (more frequently in dusty conditions). Dry filters can be cleaned with mild soap and water; oiled filters require a re-oiling kit from the manufacturer.
  • Inspect heat shield seal – ensure the foam gasket around the heat shield remains intact and flush against the fender line.
  • Check clamps annually – re-tighten if necessary, as silicone couplers can compress over time.
  • Monitor for MAF sensor contamination – if you notice rough idle or lean codes after heavy rain, a damaged or dirty MAF sensor may be the culprit. Use a dedicated MAF cleaner, never contact cleaner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Macht Schnell intake trigger a check engine light?

On most W205 C63 applications, no. The MAF sensor adapters are designed to correct the airflow signal. However, if the filter oil is over-applied or a coupler leak exists, a lean code (P0171/P0174) may appear. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for oiling filters.

Macht Schnell does not currently offer CARB EO numbers for this application. If you require emissions compliance in California or other CARB states, verify local regulations before purchasing.

Can I install this intake on a C63 S?

Yes, the W205 C63 and C63 S share the same M177 engine and identical airbox locations. The Macht Schnell kit fits both models directly.

How long does the installation take?

For a first-timer, expect 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Experienced DIYers can complete it in 45 minutes to an hour.

External Resources and Further Reading

For more information on the Macht Schnell intake and W205 C63 modifications, consider visiting these authoritative sources:

Conclusion

Installing a Macht Schnell cold air intake on your W205 C63 is a straightforward weekend project that delivers genuine performance and sound improvements. By following the steps outlined above – from removing the factory airboxes to final torque checks – you can complete the installation with confidence. The low intake air temperatures and increased flow will make your C63 feel more responsive at every rpm. Combined with proper maintenance and a potential tune, this intake becomes a foundational upgrade for any serious AMG enthusiast.

Enjoy the enhanced driving experience and the unmistakable sound of your twin-turbo V8 breathing freely.