2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 is a compact luxury sedan known for its stylish design and sporty handling. The standard engine is a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its fuel efficiency, modern technology, and premium feel. However, common complaints include a firm ride, a somewhat cramped rear seat, and potential reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points, including the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or component is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, especially at idle or during acceleration. Clunking or thumping noises from the engine bay.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (7G-DCT)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifts, especially at low speeds. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop or when downshifting.
  • Solution: Some owners report that a transmission control module (TCM) re-adaptation or software update can help. In some cases, transmission valve body replacement or full transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) to $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning messages related to transmission temperature. Rough shifting and/or complete transmission failure in severe cases.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace the transmission oil cooler if necessary, and perform a transmission service.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of suspension components like control arm bushings, ball joints, and struts. Symptoms include clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per corner, depending on the specific components.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days. Difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair any parasitic drains, which can be caused by faulty modules or wiring issues. A new battery may also be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty sensors, such as the oxygen sensor or mass airflow sensor, can cause the engine to run poorly, trigger the check engine light, and reduce fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may fail to lock or unlock all the doors, or the remote key may become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the faulty door lock actuators, wiring harness, or central locking control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck or make grinding noises when opening or closing. Water leaks can occur.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks. In some cases, the sunroof motor or entire assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (lubrication) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system freezes, restarts unexpectedly, or displays incorrect information.
  • Solution: Performing a software update. Replacing the head unit may be necessary in some cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250, while a stylish and desirable vehicle, can be prone to several issues. The most common problems revolve around the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. Issues such as oil leaks, rough shifting, and battery drains can be both inconvenient and costly to repair. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, more extensive repairs to the transmission or electrical system can easily exceed $1,000. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.