2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG
Introduction
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is a high-performance compact sedan that combines sleek styling with thrilling driving dynamics. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produces 355 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, the CLA45 AMG accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels via the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.
While the CLA45 AMG is praised for its blistering acceleration, responsive handling, and luxurious interior, it has also been plagued by a number of issues.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The crankshaft position sensor can fail, causing the engine to lose power and stall. This can also trigger the check engine light to illuminate.
- Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to become loose and leading to engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption.
- Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic
- Clutch Pack Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The clutch pack in the dual-clutch transmission can wear out prematurely, causing shuddering, slipping, and difficulty shifting gears.
- Solution: Replace the clutch pack.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit is the brains of the dual-clutch transmission. It can fail due to software issues or mechanical wear, resulting in transmission problems.
- Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The front lower control arm bushings can wear out, causing the suspension to become noisy and unstable. Symptoms include clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace the front lower control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Discharge
- Description/Symptoms: The battery can discharge prematurely due to faulty electrical components, such as the alternator or voltage regulator. This can lead to the vehicle failing to start.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty electrical component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can malfunction, causing the gauges and displays to fail. This can make it difficult to operate the vehicle safely.
- Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The convertible top may not open or close properly due to faulty sensors or mechanical issues. This can also trigger the check engine light to illuminate.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may not work properly due to a faulty temperature sensor or control module. This can make it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature in the vehicle.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may not open or close properly due to faulty sensors or mechanical issues. This can also trigger the check engine light to illuminate.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is a high-performance sedan that offers impressive acceleration and handling, but it has been plagued by a number of issues. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, such as engine and transmission problems, can be costly to repair. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering this vehicle.