2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is a performance-oriented compact sedan known for its potent engine and sporty handling. Other CLA models come with less powerful engines and are not AMG variants. The CLA45 AMG boasts a hand-built 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners often praise the car’s exhilarating acceleration and distinctive AMG styling. Common complaints revolve around the firm ride quality and relatively high price point compared to competitors.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M133)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, rough idle, stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, visible coolant leaks. Often occurs at the thermostat housing or water pump.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking component (thermostat housing, water pump, hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+, depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (AMG Speedshift DCT 7)

• Rough or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts, particularly at low speeds or during downshifts. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission software update or clutch pack replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) to $3,000+ (clutch pack replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises during shifting or acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Noises (Clunking or Squeaking)
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking sounds coming from the suspension, especially over bumps. Can be caused by worn-out bushings, ball joints, or struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn-out suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the affected parts.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Malfunction (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride quality, error messages on the dashboard, failure of the suspension to adjust to different driving modes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper or related control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, frequent jump starts needed.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the parasitic drain and repair of the affected circuit or component. Battery replacement may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (battery replacement) to $500+ (diagnosing and fixing the drain).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (O2, MAF, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor engine performance, reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is a high-performance vehicle with potential issues related to its complex engine and transmission. The most concerning issues include turbocharger failure and problems with the dual-clutch transmission. Suspension and electrical issues can also arise. Repair costs can be significant, particularly for engine and transmission-related problems.