2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA200

2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA200

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA200 is a luxury compact sedan that offers a blend of style, performance, and technology. It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 183 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The CLA200 also comes with a wide range of standard features, including a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Despite its premium appeal, the CLA200 has been plagued by a number of issues that have affected both its performance and reliability. These issues have been reported by owners across various online forums and review sites.

Engine

• Engine Stalling:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine unexpectedly stalls while driving, especially at low speeds or when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Replacing the engine control module (ECM) has resolved the issue for some owners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission:
  • Jerky Shifting:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or jerks when shifting gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
    • Solution: Remapping the transmission control unit (TCU) software has been reported to improve shifting behavior.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Premature Clutch Wear:
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch plates wear out prematurely, leading to slipping and loss of power.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch assembly is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery rapidly discharges, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or a complete loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacing the defective battery usually resolves the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Short Circuit:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical components malfunction or fail due to a short circuit, causing various issues such as loss of power, warning lights, or even a vehicle fire.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the faulty wiring or component is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the affected component and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof seal fails, allowing water to leak into the vehicle’s cabin.
  • Solution: Replacing the sunroof seal is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Glitches:
  • Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen freezes or lags, navigation system malfunctions, audio system exhibits audio distortion or connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Updating the infotainment software or replacing the head unit may resolve the issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the issue and whether replacement is necessary.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system fails to regulate temperature or airflow, leading to discomfort for passengers.
  • Solution: Replacing the climate control module or sensors may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA200 offers appealing features and a premium driving experience, it has been marred by a number of issues that have affected engine performance, transmission reliability, and various electrical and interior components. Some of these issues can be resolved with relatively minor fixes, while others can be more costly and time-consuming to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before considering the purchase of a used or new CLA200.