2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG is a performance-oriented compact coupe/sedan known for its sporty handling and stylish design. It comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, producing 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. People like the car for its nimble handling, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes include a firm ride and limited rear passenger space.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M260)

• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the thermostat housing or water pump area. Can lead to overheating if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the thermostat housing or water pump and potentially related hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil seeping from the valve cover gasket or other engine seals. Noticeable oil smell or visible oil drips under the car.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $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 or during initial acceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission control module (TCM) reprogramming or, in more severe cases, replacement of the valve body or complete transmission overhaul.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (TCM Reprogramming) - $5,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high without corresponding acceleration. Transmission slipping between gears or failing to engage.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the issue, which may involve replacing clutches, valve body, or other internal components. In severe cases, a complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling precision.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings in the control arms or sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Malfunction (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or inconsistent ride quality. Error messages related to the adaptive damping system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or lagging of the MBUX infotainment system. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500 (Software Update) - $1000+ (Module Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty readings or complete failure of parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, or other driver-assistance systems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the malfunctioning sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery dying prematurely, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain and repair, replacement of faulty battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises, difficulty opening or closing, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components, such as the motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light/Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Flickering or dimming of tail lights or headlights.
  • Solution: Replacement of bulb or full tail/headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• MBUX Touchpad Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Unresponsive or erratic behavior of the MBUX touchpad.
  • Solution: Replacement of the touchpad.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG, while sporty and luxurious, can experience issues ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant mechanical problems with the engine and transmission. The most concerning problems involve the potential for costly transmission repairs. While minor issues like infotainment glitches are relatively inexpensive to fix, significant engine and transmission repairs can be very costly.