2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is a high-performance compact coupe/sedan known for its powerful engine and sporty driving dynamics. While only one engine option was available for the 2020 CLA45 AMG, the M139 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine, it delivered an impressive 382 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the CLA45 AMG for its exhilarating performance, agile handling, and stylish design. Common complaints often revolve around the firm ride quality, higher cost of ownership, and some reported issues with the advanced technology features.

Engine

M139 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled services. Symptoms may include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: Regular monitoring of oil levels, potential piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature turbocharger failure, characterized by a loss of power, unusual noises (whining, screeching), and potential smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCT)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or hesitant shifts, particularly at lower speeds or during aggressive acceleration. Some owners have described clunking noises during gear changes.
  • Solution: Transmission software update, transmission recalibration, or in some cases, replacement of the valve body or clutch packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (software update) to $4,000+ (transmission repair/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions, can experience failures, leading to shifting problems, limp mode, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Stiff Ride Quality
  • Description/Symptoms: While contributing to the car’s sporty handling, the suspension can be quite firm, leading to a harsh ride, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Some owners have opted for aftermarket suspension components with adjustable damping to improve ride comfort.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (depending on chosen aftermarket components and installation).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the adaptive dampers, resulting in uneven ride quality, error messages, and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty adaptive dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per damper (including labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or random reboots of the MBUX infotainment system. Bluetooth connectivity issues and navigation problems have also been reported.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $2,000+ (infotainment unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various sensors, such as parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring sensors, and rain sensors, leading to false alerts or system failures.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the sensor and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises, difficulty opening or closing, and leaks.
  • Solution: Sunroof/moonroof adjustment, repair, or replacement of the motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is a performance-oriented vehicle that, while offering an exciting driving experience, may present some potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, though not universally experienced, can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches and sensor malfunctions can be irritating, while suspension issues are more based on driving style. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these possible issues and factor in the higher maintenance costs associated with a high-performance vehicle. The severity and cost of potential repairs range from minor software updates to major engine or transmission work, so a thorough inspection and pre-purchase check are highly recommended.