2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA200

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA200 is a stylish, compact, four-door coupe that marked Mercedes-Benz’s entry into a more accessible price point. The CLA200 is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2013 CLA range included the CLA 180, CLA 220 CDI, and CLA 250, each with varying power outputs. Transmission options generally consisted of a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (7G-DCT). Owners typically praise the CLA’s sleek design and fuel efficiency, while common dislikes include a firm ride and limited rear headroom.

Engine

1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Oil Consumption/Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of excessive oil consumption, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. Oil leaks may also occur from various seals and gaskets.
  • Solution: Replacing worn piston rings to reduce oil consumption. Replacing leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the source of the leak and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or unusual noises from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-DCT 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Hesitation/Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when accelerating from a stop, rough or jerky gear changes, particularly at low speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission software update, valve body replacement, or in severe cases, complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for software update; $1000 - $3000+ for valve body or transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, failure to shift, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Faulty Oxygen (O2) Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough engine running.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty O2 sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car. Could be related to faulty modules not going to sleep or parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw, replacing the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ for diagnosis; $200+ for battery replacement; higher for module repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, unusual noises when operating the sunroof, water leaks.
  • Solution: Lubrication of sunroof tracks, replacement of damaged components (motor, cables), resealing the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Malfunctioning Command System
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the central display screen, navigation system malfunctions, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 for software updates; $1000 - $3000+ for COMAND unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA200, while stylish, may experience several common issues. Engine problems can include oil consumption and turbocharger failures, while the 7G-DCT transmission may suffer from jerky shifting and mechatronic unit failures. Electrical issues and sunroof malfunctions can also occur. While some issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive fixes, others, such as transmission or turbocharger replacements, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and conduct thorough inspections before purchasing.