2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA200
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA200 is a stylish compact sedan known for its coupe-like roofline and relatively sporty driving dynamics. In addition to the CLA200, the 2015 CLA was available with other engine options, including the CLA250 and the AMG CLA45. The CLA200 is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing approximately 154 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Common praises for the CLA include its attractive design and fuel efficiency, while some criticisms focus on its firm ride, limited rear headroom, and somewhat cramped interior.
Engine
1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4 (CLA200)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets within the engine, leading to oil consumption and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. Oil spots under the car or a burning oil smell are common symptoms.
- Solution: The specific source of the leak needs to be identified (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, crankshaft seal). Repair involves replacing the affected gasket or seal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ (depending on the leak location and complexity)
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling or whining noises from the engine bay, and potentially a check engine light related to turbocharger pressure or efficiency.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the turbocharger is required. Depending on the severity, repair could involve replacing vacuum lines, repairing the turbo, or replacing the entire turbocharger assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-DCT 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifts, particularly at lower speeds, and hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
- Solution: Software updates to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve some cases. In other cases, the dual-clutch pack or mechatronic unit (valve body) may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (for software updates), $1500 - $5000+ (for clutch pack or mechatronic unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises during gear changes or acceleration/deceleration
- Solution: Replacement of the transmission mount
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Broken Coil Springs
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, uneven ride height, and poor handling. Often results from corrosion and stress over time.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected coil spring(s), ideally in pairs (both front or both rear) to maintain balanced suspension performance.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per pair)
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Squeaking, creaking, or rattling noises from the suspension, imprecise steering, and reduced handling stability.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings. This may involve replacing the entire control arm or suspension component if the bushings are not available separately.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the bushing and labor involved)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty O2 Sensors
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential emissions test failure.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty O2 sensor(s) and replacement with a new sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per sensor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use for extended periods. Difficult to start, or even a dead battery.
- Solution: Identify the parasitic draw. This could be caused by a faulty module, improperly installed aftermarket components, or wiring issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+ for diagnosis. Repair costs vary widely depending on the source of the draw.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Malfunctioning Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Door locks that fail to lock or unlock properly, either intermittently or completely. Can affect one or more doors.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per door)
- Recalls: None Found
- Side Mirror Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The side mirror may lose power, the mirror may not adjust properly, the mirror may not heat up properly, or the glass may fall out
- Solution: The side mirror assembly must be replaced
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, noisy during operation, or fail to open or close completely.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the sunroof mechanism, which may involve cleaning and lubrication, repair, or replacement of components such as the motor or tracks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
- Center Console Display Screen Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Screen flickering, distorted images, or complete failure of the central display screen for infotainment and vehicle settings.
- Solution: Replacement of the screen, or the entire center console unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA200 can experience a range of issues, from relatively minor electrical problems to more significant engine and transmission concerns. While some issues like rough shifting can be addressed with software updates, others, such as turbocharger failure or clutch pack replacement, can be costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to assess the vehicle’s condition. The severity of these issues range from inconveniences to more serious mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the issue.