2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG is a compact performance SUV that boasts a potent turbocharged engine and sporty handling. It is only offered with one engine option which is the M139 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine producing 382 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The GLA45 AMG is only offered with one transmission option, the AMG Speedshift DCT 8G 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Many owners praise the GLA45 AMG for its exhilarating performance, nimble handling, and luxurious interior. However, some common complaints include a firm ride quality, limited rear passenger space, and a high price tag.

Engine

M139 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported the engine consuming excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue smoke from the exhaust (especially during start-up or acceleration), and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: The potential solutions range from replacing the PCV valve, to performing an engine compression test and leak-down test to identify any internal damage or leaks. In severe cases, piston ring replacement or even engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (PCV valve) - $5,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may occur from various locations, including the water pump, hoses, or radiator. Signs include low coolant level warnings, visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, and overheating.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty component. Common culprits include the water pump, radiator hoses, and the radiator itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the component and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG Speedshift DCT 8G 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Rough or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed maneuvers or when shifting between certain gears. This can manifest as hesitation, clunking noises, or a general lack of smoothness in gear changes.
  • Solution: A transmission software update might resolve the issue. In more severe cases, replacing the valve body or even the entire transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $7,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ride Quality (Stiffness)
  • Description/Symptoms: The AMG-tuned suspension, while providing excellent handling, can result in a very firm ride quality. This can be uncomfortable for some drivers, especially on rough or uneven roads.
  • Solution: There is no simple fix for this issue, as it is inherent to the design of the suspension. Aftermarket suspension components could be installed to improve the ride.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, such as freezing, lagging, or unexpected reboots.
  • Solution: Restarting the system, performing a software update, or in severe cases, replacing the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (restart) - $2,000+ (system replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions with parking sensors or blind spot monitoring systems can occur, leading to false alarms or a complete failure of the system.
  • Solution: Inspect the sensors for damage or obstruction, and replace any faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+ per sensor, depending on location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Creaking/Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing creaking or rattling noises coming from various parts of the interior, such as the dashboard, door panels, or seats.
  • Solution: Locating and isolating the source of the noise, and then applying padding, tightening screws, or replacing the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG, while offering a thrilling driving experience, appears to have a few common issues. The engine can experience oil consumption and coolant leaks. Transmission issues like rough shifting may occur. Some drivers may find the ride quality too stiff and some electrical issues with the infotainment system and sensors. Interior creaks and rattles can also surface. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but addressing them promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s performance and longevity.