Mercedes CLA35 AMG C118 Maintenance Guide
Mercedes CLA35 C118 Maintenance Guide
The Mercedes-Benz CLA35 C118, introduced in 2019, combines sporty performance with luxury and technology, making it a popular choice for those seeking a compact yet powerful vehicle. However, to keep the CLA35 running at its best, regular maintenance is essential. This guide provides an overview of the key service intervals and maintenance tasks for the CLA35, helping you keep your vehicle in top condition.
Service Intervals: A and B Services
Mercedes-Benz follows a flexible service schedule for the CLA35, which includes the A service and B service. These services are typically based on time or mileage, whichever comes first. Below, we’ll break down these service intervals and explain what’s involved in each.
A Service
The A service is the first type of service and typically occurs after 12 months or 10,000 miles (16,000 km), whichever comes first. This service is generally lighter and focuses on basic maintenance tasks. It should be completed once every 12 months or 10,000 miles (16,000 km), depending on which comes sooner.
Key Tasks for the A Service:
- Oil and Filter Change: The engine oil and oil filter are replaced to ensure the engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
- Fluid Levels Check: All essential fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, will be checked and topped up if necessary.
- Tyre Inspection: A full inspection of the tyres will be conducted, checking for wear and proper inflation.
- Brake Inspection: The brake pads, discs, and brake fluid levels will be checked for wear and effectiveness.
- Windscreen Wipers and Washers: The wiper blades will be checked, and the washer system will be topped up with fluid.
B Service
The B service generally takes place 24 months or 20,000 miles (32,000 km) after the first service, depending on your driving conditions. This service includes all the tasks performed during the A service, with additional checks and maintenance.
Key Tasks for the B Service:
- Oil and Filter Change: As with the A service, the engine oil and filter will be replaced.
- Brake System Check: In addition to the standard brake check from the A service, the brake fluid will be replaced if needed, and the braking components will be inspected more thoroughly.
- Transmission Fluid: For automatic transmission models like the CLA35, the transmission fluid will be checked and replaced if necessary.
- Cabin Air Filter: The cabin air filter will be replaced to ensure the air quality inside the car remains high.
- Battery Check: The battery will be tested for voltage and health, ensuring it’s performing as expected.
- Drive Belts and Chains: The drive belts and chains will be inspected for wear and tear, as well as tension.
While the A and B service schedules are standard, it’s important to note that extreme driving conditions (such as frequent short trips, high-speed driving, or driving in harsh environments) can require more frequent maintenance. Always consult your owner's manual for specifics related to your driving habits.
Other Key Maintenance Considerations
Engine and Transmission Care
The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine in the CLA35 requires regular oil changes to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Ensure that only high-quality engine oil, recommended by Mercedes-Benz, is used during every oil change. It's also crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for fluid changes in the transmission system, especially in the dual-clutch gearbox.
Cooling System
The engine cooling system is vital for maintaining the correct operating temperature. It's a good idea to check the coolant level regularly, especially before long journeys or during hot weather. During the service, the cooling system should also be checked for any signs of leaks or corrosion.
Suspension and Steering
Given the CLA35’s sporty nature, the suspension system is crucial for maintaining handling and ride comfort. The suspension components, including dampers, springs, and bushings, should be inspected regularly for wear. The power steering system should also be checked, and the fluid topped up if necessary. Check out our range of suspension products for your C118 here.
Brake System
The brake system should be a key focus of your maintenance routine. The brake pads, discs, and fluid should be checked regularly. The CLA35’s performance nature means that brake pads may wear faster, particularly if the car is driven aggressively. It’s also essential to ensure that the brake fluid is changed according to the manufacturer’s schedule, as old fluid can degrade performance. If you want to upgrade your brakes, consider checking out our range of performance/aftermarket braking products here.
Tyres
Tyre maintenance is crucial for safety and performance. In addition to ensuring the tyres are correctly inflated, regular checks for uneven wear, cuts, or punctures should be done. The CLA35’s handling performance relies on well-maintained tyres, so ensure that the tyres are rotated if necessary, and replace them when tread depth is too low.
Battery
The battery is an essential component of the CLA35’s electrical system. Ensure it is checked regularly, especially if the car has been sitting unused for extended periods. As the car’s electronics become more complex, battery performance becomes even more critical to avoid potential electrical issues.
Extended Service Recommendations
In addition to the routine A and B services, Mercedes-Benz recommends additional checks at specific intervals, particularly for components that endure more wear, such as the spark plugs, timing chain, and air filters. These should be checked around the 60,000-mile (96,000 km) mark and replaced as needed.
For example:
- Spark Plugs: These are typically replaced every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, depending on usage.
- Air Filters: The engine air filter and cabin air filter should be replaced as part of routine maintenance, typically every 20,000 miles (32,000 km).
- Brake Fluid: Mercedes-Benz recommends changing the brake fluid every two years, even if you haven’t reached the mileage limit.
Costs and Warranty Considerations
Regular servicing with an authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer ensures that the car is maintained to factory standards. While the service costs for the CLA35 can vary depending on the service and the dealership, it’s essential to factor in these costs when budgeting for vehicle ownership. Extended warranty plans are also available and can offer additional peace of mind, particularly for critical components like the engine and transmission.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your Mercedes-Benz CLA35 C118 is crucial to ensuring it continues to perform at its best. Regular servicing according to the A and B service intervals, along with careful attention to other key systems like the brakes, tyres, and cooling system, will help keep the car running smoothly. Always keep track of your service history and be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to avoid costly repairs down the line. Regular care will ensure that your CLA35 remains a reliable, high-performance vehicle for years to come.