2017 Mercedes-Benz A45

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is a high-performance hatchback known for its powerful turbocharged engine and sporty handling. In North America, the A45 was not officially sold and only made it over through the grey market import channels, with most of these being located in Canada. This is due to how the vehicle was only offered as a hatchback, which is not very popular in North America. The 2017 A45 AMG features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Owners often praise its exhilarating acceleration, agile handling, and aggressive styling. Common complaints include a firm ride, limited rear passenger space, and relatively high running costs.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M133)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Extended cranking, rough running, fuel smell, engine stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, visible leaks around the engine, coolant warning light. The water pump and thermostat housing are common leak points.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the leaking components (water pump, thermostat housing, hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch (AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed)

• Hesitation/Jerking During Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hesitation or jerking, particularly during low-speed shifts or when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update (TCU reflash) may help, but more severe cases may require transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for software updates; $4,000 - $8,000+ for transmission repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving higher than expected during acceleration, lack of power delivery to the wheels, transmission warning light.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper (Shock Absorber) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, noise from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ depending on the type of dampers.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Creaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or squeaking noises coming from the suspension when going over bumps or turning. Often caused by worn bushings or ball joints.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings or ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on the parts needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car fails to start, needing a jump start frequently, electrical systems malfunctioning. Could be caused by a faulty battery, a parasitic drain, or an issue with the alternator.
  • Solution: Battery replacement, diagnose and repair parasitic drain, or alternator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 for battery; $100 - $500+ for diagnosing and fixing parasitic drain; $500 - $1,000+ for alternator.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $300 for software update (if available); $1,000 - $3,000+ for system replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly or resealing the headlight housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, while offering exhilarating performance, can present owners with several potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, such as turbocharger failure, high-pressure fuel pump issues, and dual-clutch transmission hesitations, can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues, while less severe, can still contribute to overall ownership costs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant mechanical failures, with repair costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision and maintenance budget.