Mercedes CLA45 AMG C117 Maintenance Guide

The Mercedes-Benz CLA45 C117, manufactured between 2013 and 2019, is a high-performance compact saloon equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. As with any performance car, regular and timely maintenance is crucial to ensure the vehicle performs at its best, maintains its value, and avoids costly repairs down the line. This guide will outline key maintenance tasks, service intervals, and what to look out for when maintaining a CLA45 to keep it running smoothly.

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Service Intervals and Mercedes-Benz Service Schedule

Mercedes-Benz vehicles follow a structured service schedule that consists of two types of service visits: A Service and B Service. These services are performed at regular intervals and are designed to ensure the vehicle’s components remain in optimal condition.

A Service

The A Service typically focuses on basic maintenance tasks such as fluid checks, oil changes, and brake inspection. It is the first service you will encounter and is generally required after the initial 10,000 miles or 1 year of ownership. After the first A Service, it is then recommended every 12,000 miles (or 1 year) thereafter.

Key tasks during an A Service include:

• Engine oil and oil filter change
• Fluid levels checked and topped up (engine coolant, brake fluid, etc.)
• Brake pads and discs checked for wear
• Tyre pressures checked and adjusted
• Windshield wipers and washers checked
• Battery checked for charge and condition
• Visual inspection of the exhaust system

B Service

The B Service, which occurs after the first 20,000 miles or 2 years, involves a more comprehensive check-up. This service addresses additional components that need more in-depth attention, such as air filters, spark plugs, and a more thorough inspection of the suspension system and other key areas.

Key tasks during a B Service include:

• All items from the A Service
• Air filter replacement
• Spark plug inspection or replacement (depending on condition)
• Brake fluid replacement (if required)
• Suspension and steering components inspection
• Additional diagnostic checks for the engine and transmission
• Cabin air filter replacement

After the B Service, subsequent services alternate between A and B at the same 12,000-mile/1-year intervals, ensuring your CLA45 remains well-maintained.

Service Intervals Summary:

1. A Service: Every 12,000 miles or 1 year
2. B Service: Every 20,000 miles or 2 years
3. This pattern continues throughout the life of the vehicle, though the service schedule may vary based on driving conditions and usage.

Key Maintenance Areas for the CLA45 C117

In addition to regular servicing, there are certain areas to keep an eye on in order to maintain the performance and longevity of your CLA45.

Engine and Oil Changes

The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine in the CLA45 is designed for high performance, and maintaining optimal engine health is critical. Regular oil changes are essential for engine longevity, as clean oil ensures proper lubrication, reduces friction, and helps prevent overheating.

• Oil Change: Oil should be changed every 12,000 miles (or 1 year), as per the service schedule, but you may need to check the oil level in between services, especially if you're driving the car hard. Regularly topping up the oil helps prevent engine damage.
• Engine Filters: Replace air filters every 20,000 miles (or every 2 years) to ensure optimal air intake and performance. Dirty filters can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Brake System

Given the high-performance nature of the CLA45, the brake system is put under more stress than on standard vehicles. Regular checks are necessary to ensure the brakes are in good working condition.

• Brake Pads and Discs: Check the brake pads and discs at every A Service to monitor wear. If the pads are worn beyond the manufacturer’s recommended thickness, they should be replaced immediately.
• Brake Fluid: The brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years, as it absorbs moisture over time and can compromise braking performance.

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Tyres

Tyre maintenance is particularly important for a high-performance vehicle like the CLA45. The tyres should be checked regularly for wear, as well as for proper inflation.

• Tyre Pressure: Ensure that the tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure levels. Under- or over-inflated tyres can affect handling and fuel efficiency.
• Tyre Wear: Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate issues with alignment or suspension components. Regularly rotating the tyres can help to ensure even wear.

Transmission and Gearbox

The dual-clutch transmission in the CLA45 offers smooth and rapid shifts, but it still requires regular maintenance.

• Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid levels should be checked and topped up during A Services. While the transmission fluid in modern vehicles typically lasts longer than in older models, it may still require replacement around 60,000 miles (or 5 years) depending on driving conditions.

Suspension and Steering

The CLA45 is equipped with a performance-tuned suspension, and it is crucial to ensure these components are in good condition.

• Suspension Components: During the B Service, the suspension and steering systems are checked for any wear or damage. The struts and shocks should be inspected regularly, especially if you experience unusual noises or handling issues.
• Power Steering Fluid: Check the power steering fluid level during each A Service. Low fluid levels can cause steering issues and potential damage to the steering system.

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Cooling System

The cooling system is vital in preventing the engine from overheating, especially in a turbocharged vehicle.

• Coolant Levels: Ensure that coolant levels are checked at every service. Low coolant levels can lead to engine overheating and potential damage.
• Radiator and Hoses: The radiator and hoses should be visually inspected for leaks or signs of wear. Cracked hoses should be replaced promptly.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your CLA45

Drive Smart: While it’s tempting to push the limits of a high-performance car like the CLA45, regular hard driving can increase wear on the engine, brakes, and tyres. If you regularly drive in a performance-oriented manner, consider more frequent checks on those components.

Use Quality Parts: Always ensure that genuine Mercedes-Benz parts or high-quality aftermarket parts are used when replacing components like filters, spark plugs, and brake pads. Cheap alternatives can affect performance and reliability.

Keep an Eye on Electrical Components: The CLA45 has many advanced electrical features, including the infotainment system, driver assistance systems, and sensors. Ensure that all electrical systems are functioning correctly during each service visit.

Conclusion

Maintaining your Mercedes-Benz CLA45 C117 is crucial to ensure it continues to perform at its best for years to come. By following the recommended service intervals for A and B services, and keeping an eye on key components like the engine, brakes, tyres, and suspension, you can enjoy the high-performance driving experience that the CLA45 is known for. Regular maintenance, along with the use of quality parts and careful attention to the vehicle’s systems, will help preserve the car's value and keep it in top condition.