Intake Manifold and Air Filter Box Mercedes Benz 63 AMG M156

In 2026, the Intake Manifold and Air Filter Box assembly for the Mercedes-AMG M156 6.2L V8 are the two most critical components for ensuring your engine breathes properly and avoids the dreaded “lean” codes.

1. The Intake Manifold (A1561410801)

The M156 manifold is a complex magnesium-alloy casting. By 2026, most original units have reached an age where the internal magnesium center plate begins to corrode or “rot,” causing severe vacuum leaks.

• OEM Price (New): $2,700 – $3,500 (often backordered).

• Remanufactured: $1,100 – $1,500.

• The “Permanent Fix”: Most owners now opt for an aftermarket aluminum center plate ($450–$650). This replaces the failing magnesium section with CNC-machined aluminum that will never rot.

• Failure Symptoms: Whistling/hissing sounds, rough idle, and codes P0171/P0174.

2. The Air Filter Boxes (Standard vs. ROW)

The M156 uses a dual-intake system (Left and Right boxes). In the US market, these were restricted for emissions, leading to the popular “ROW” (Rest of World) upgrade.

Pro Tip: In 2026, the “ROW Airbox Set” is considered a mandatory “Stage 1” upgrade. It usually includes new Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensors, which are often faulty on older M156 cars anyway.

3. Performance Air Filters

If you are opening the airboxes, the standard paper filters are often replaced with high-flow “dry” filters to avoid fouling the sensitive MAF sensors.

• Top 2026 Choices: aFe Pro Dry S or Weistec High Flow Filters.

• Cost: $180 – $220 for the pair.

• Benefit: Improved throttle response and a more aggressive induction “growl.”

4. 2026 Service Checklist

If you are replacing the manifold or airboxes, ensure you address these small but vital parts:

1. PCV Valve (A1560100370): Located behind the manifold. If it fails, it can suck oil into the intake, accelerating manifold corrosion.

2. Manifold Gaskets: These are “crush” style and must be replaced every time the manifold is removed.

3. Charcoal Filter Removal: If you keep your US airboxes, many owners manually remove the thick charcoal “bricks” glued into the lids to mirror the ROW performance.