Cylinder Scoring - Reliability Guide & Repair Costs
Understanding Cylinder Scoring
Cylinder wall scoring is the disintegration of the cylinder liner surface (Alusil/Silitec). This allows oil to bypass the piston rings and burn in the combustion chamber. It is effectively a terminal engine diagnosis.
Symptoms
- Heavy oil consumption (1qt/500mi)
- Rhythmic 'thock-thock' knocking sound
- Misfire on specific cylinders
- Fouled spark plugs
At A Glance
- Repair Cost:
- $15,000+ (Engine Replacement)
- Prevention:
- Use high-quality fuel, change oil frequently, and replace leaking injectors immediately. Avoid short trips.
Affected Vehicles & Guides
The following detailed guides cover Cylinder Scoring specifically for the listed models.
Audi 4.0T vs Mercedes M278: The Ultimate Hot-V Twin-Turbo V8 Comparison
Audi 4.0T vs Mercedes M278: Which is more reliable? Comprehensive comparison of failure modes, repair costs, and long-term ownership.
BMW N63 vs Mercedes M278: The Ultimate V8 Reliability Comparison
BMW N63 vs Mercedes M278: Which is more reliable? Comprehensive comparison of failure modes, repair costs, and long-term ownership.
Mercedes CLS550 Common Issues: The M278 V8 Four-Door Coupe Guide
The breakdown of Mercedes CLS550 (C218) reliability with M278 V8. Common failures: cylinder scoring, timing chain tensioners, electronics.
Mercedes E550 Engine Problems: The M278 V8 Reliability Guide
The breakdown of Mercedes E550 (W212) reliability with M278 V8. Common failures: cylinder scoring, timing chain tensioners, turbo coolant leaks.
Mercedes GL550 M278 Issues: The Luxury SUV Reliability Guide
The breakdown of Mercedes GL550 (X166) reliability with M278 V8. Common failures: cylinder scoring, timing chain tensioners, Airmatic suspension.
Mercedes M278 Engine Reliability: The Definitive Guide (4.7L V8 Biturbo)
The most comprehensive guide to Mercedes M278 (4.7L V8 Biturbo) reliability. Detailed analysis of Silitec cylinder scoring, timing chain rattle.
Mercedes M278 V8 Reliability: The Definitive Guide (4.7L Biturbo)
The definitive guide to Mercedes M278 V8 reliability. Cylinder scoring, timing chain tensioner failures, and turbo coolant leaks.
Mercedes S550 M278 Reliability: The Flagship Gamble
Is the Mercedes S550 (W222) with M278 V8 reliable? Brutally honest guide to owning the 449hp flagship. Cylinder scoring, timing chain, Airmatic.