Mercedes A45 AMG W177 Maintenance Guide

The Mercedes-Benz A45/A45S W177 and CLA45S C118, all featuring the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, are high-performance vehicles that require regular and precise maintenance to ensure they continue to deliver top performance. Whether you own an A45, A45S, or CLA45S, understanding the correct maintenance schedule and what to look out for will help keep your vehicle in excellent condition. This guide will provide you with essential information on service intervals, key maintenance tasks, and things to consider for these performance-focused models.

Service Intervals: A and B Services

Mercedes-Benz follows a flexible service schedule for the A45, A45S, and CLA45S models, which typically alternates between A and B services. These services are designed to maintain the car’s performance, reliability, and safety. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

A Service (Typically every 12,000 miles or 12 months)

The A service is the more basic of the two, focusing on essential checks and fluid changes to ensure the vehicle continues to run smoothly. Here’s what is generally included:

• Oil and Oil Filter Change: The engine oil will be replaced to maintain optimal engine lubrication and performance.
• Fluid Levels Check: Fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid will be inspected and topped up if necessary.
• Brake Inspection: Brake pads, discs, and brake fluid will be checked for wear and tear.
• Tyre Inspection: Tyres will be checked for wear, and the tyre pressure will be adjusted to ensure proper performance.
• Exterior Lights Check: All exterior lights, including headlights, indicators, and brake lights, will be tested to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• General Visual Inspection: A general check of the car’s condition, including suspension components, exhaust system, and the condition of belts and hoses.

B Service (Typically every 24,000 miles or 24 months)

The B service is more comprehensive, including all of the A service items, plus additional checks and component inspections. Here’s what you can expect during the B service:

• Oil and Oil Filter Change: As with the A service, the oil and filter will be replaced to ensure the engine continues to run smoothly.
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: The cabin air filter will be replaced to maintain air quality inside the vehicle.
• Brake System Check: This includes a more detailed inspection of the brake system, including checking the brake pads, discs, and fluid levels. Any wear will be noted and addressed.
• Suspension Check: The suspension system, including shock absorbers, springs, and bushings, will be inspected for wear.
• Transmission Fluid and Brake Fluid Check: Transmission fluid will be checked for signs of degradation, and brake fluid will be inspected for contamination or low levels.
• Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection: A more in-depth inspection of all major components, including exhaust system, belts, hoses, and underbody, will be carried out.

Additional Maintenance Tasks

Aside from the standard A and B services, there are a few additional maintenance considerations for the A45/A45S and CLA45S to ensure the longevity of your car’s performance:

Spark Plugs

Given the high-performance nature of these vehicles, the spark plugs play a crucial role in engine efficiency and performance. It is recommended to inspect and replace the spark plugs at intervals of around 60,000 miles (96,000 km), or earlier if issues with starting, idling, or performance arise.

Brake Pads and Discs

Performance models like the A45/A45S and CLA45S can be hard on the brake system due to the high power output. Brake pads should be inspected regularly, and if you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or reduced braking efficiency, they may need to be replaced. On average, brake pads can last between 20,000 to 30,000 miles (32,000 to 48,000 km), but this can vary depending on driving habits.

Tyres

High-performance tyres are crucial for the handling and safety of these vehicles. Regular tyre inspections are vital, and tyres should be rotated every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) to ensure even wear. Additionally, tyres should be replaced when tread depth falls below 3mm.

Transmission Fluid

Although Mercedes-Benz uses a sealed transmission system in these models, it is still essential to monitor the condition of the transmission fluid. Check the transmission fluid at every B service to ensure it remains clean and at the proper level. If the fluid shows signs of degradation or contamination, a fluid change may be necessary.

Air Filters

The engine air filter and cabin air filter should be replaced at intervals of around 24,000 miles (38,000 km). The engine air filter ensures the engine gets clean air for combustion, while the cabin air filter maintains air quality inside the vehicle.

Common Issues and Things to Look Out For

While the A45/A45S and CLA45S are generally reliable, there are a few common issues to watch out for:

Turbocharger Performance: As high-performance vehicles, the turbochargers in the A45/A45S and CLA45S are often pushed to their limits. If you notice a drop in power, hesitation, or whistling noises from the engine, it could be a sign of turbocharger issues.

Cooling System: The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine generates a lot of heat, so ensuring the cooling system is functioning properly is crucial. Regularly check the coolant levels and inspect the radiator and hoses for leaks or signs of wear.

Electrical Components: As with most modern cars, the A45/A45S and CLA45S come with advanced electronics. If you experience issues with the infotainment system, sensors, or warning lights, it's worth having the car’s electrical system checked by a professional.

Exhaust System: A performance car like the A45S has a more aggressive exhaust note, and any noticeable change in sound could indicate an issue with the exhaust system, such as a crack or leak. Make sure to inspect the exhaust system for any damage, especially after high-performance driving.

Conclusion

Maintaining a Mercedes-Benz A45/A45S W177 or CLA45S C118 ensures that these performance cars continue to provide thrilling driving experiences for years to come. By adhering to the recommended service intervals, such as A and B services every 12,000 miles or 12 months (or 24,000 miles/24 months for the B service), and staying on top of essential maintenance tasks like brake checks, tyre rotations, and fluid inspections, you can keep your car running at its best.

Regular maintenance will not only preserve the performance of your vehicle but also protect its resale value. Make sure to have your vehicle serviced by an authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer or a trusted specialist to ensure all parts are checked thoroughly and to keep your car in top condition.