Mercedes CLA45 AMG C118 Maintenance Guide

The Mercedes CLA45 C118, with its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, is a high-performance compact car that combines power, precision, and luxury. To ensure that your CLA45 continues to perform at its best, regular maintenance is essential. This guide will provide you with key details on the service schedule, what to expect at each service interval, and some important aspects to monitor when maintaining your vehicle.

Service Intervals

Mercedes-Benz recommends following a specific service schedule for the CLA45 C118 to keep it in optimal condition. The schedule is divided into two main types of services: A Service and B Service. These services occur at different intervals, depending on time and mileage.

A Service

The A Service is typically carried out every 10,000 miles (16,000 kilometres) or annually, whichever comes first. It’s a basic maintenance service that includes checking the vehicle’s vital systems, fluid levels, and filters, as well as any necessary replacements.

Key items covered during the A Service:

• Engine oil change: Fresh oil is essential for keeping the turbocharged engine running smoothly.
• Oil filter replacement: The oil filter is replaced to ensure that the oil remains clean and free of contaminants.
• Brake system inspection: Brake pads, discs, and fluid are checked to ensure they’re in good condition.
• Tyre check: The condition and tread depth of the tyres are assessed.
• Windshield wiper blades: These are inspected for wear and replaced if necessary.
• Fluid levels: All essential fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, are topped up if required.
• System checks: A diagnostic check of the engine, transmission, and other key components is carried out to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

B Service

The B Service is generally due every 20,000 miles (32,000 kilometres) or two years, depending on usage. The B Service includes all of the checks and services performed during the A Service, plus additional maintenance tasks to keep the car in top condition.

Key items covered during the B Service:

• Air filter replacement: The air filter is replaced to ensure that the engine is receiving clean air for optimal combustion.
• Cabin filter replacement: This helps maintain air quality within the cabin, especially important for allergy sufferers.
• Brake fluid replacement: Brake fluid is replaced to maintain proper brake function and prevent moisture from affecting the brake system.
• Wheel alignment check: Ensures that the wheels are properly aligned for smooth handling and to prevent uneven tyre wear.
• Battery check: The condition of the battery is checked to ensure it’s holding charge properly.
• Exhaust system check: The exhaust is inspected for any signs of wear or damage, including leaks or rust.
• Spark plugs: While spark plugs don’t need replacing at every B Service, they may be checked to ensure they’re in good working order.

Additional Maintenance Considerations

While the A and B services cover most of the essential maintenance, there are some additional areas that you should monitor regularly to keep your CLA45 performing at its best.

Turbocharger and Cooling System

Given the high-performance nature of the CLA45’s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, regular monitoring of the turbocharger and the cooling system is important. Ensure that the cooling system is functioning properly to prevent engine overheating. Keep an eye on coolant levels, and check for leaks or any signs of excessive wear.

Transmission Fluid

Although the CLA45 uses a dual-clutch transmission, which generally requires less frequent maintenance than traditional gearboxes, it’s still important to monitor its performance. If you notice any rough shifting or hesitation, it may indicate an issue with the transmission fluid or the system itself.

Brake System

Performance cars like the CLA45 can put significant strain on the braking system, especially if the car is driven hard. While the A and B services include brake checks, you should still monitor the brake pads and discs between services. If you notice any squealing or reduced braking performance, it may be time to replace the pads or have the system checked for wear. Need to upgrade your brakes? Check out our range of braking options for your CLA45 here

Suspension and Steering

The CLA45’s suspension system, designed for sporty handling, should also be inspected regularly. Check for any unusual noises, such as clunking or knocking, which could indicate a problem with the suspension or steering components. If you notice uneven tyre wear, it may be a sign that the alignment is off or that there’s an issue with the suspension system. Click here to view our suspension products for your CLA45

Tyres

Tyres are a critical part of maintaining safety and performance in the CLA45. Given the car’s high power output and handling characteristics, tyre wear can be more rapid than in standard vehicles. Ensure the tyres are checked for tread depth and condition, and replace them when necessary to maintain optimum grip. It’s also important to ensure that they are rotated regularly to promote even wear.

Warranty and Extended Service Plans

Mercedes-Benz offers a 3-year, 60,000-mile (100,000 km) warranty on new vehicles, which covers most major repairs. However, after the warranty expires, it’s important to factor in the costs of maintenance and repairs, as the CLA45 is a high-performance vehicle that may require more specialised attention. An extended service plan can offer peace of mind by covering the cost of essential services, parts, and repairs.

Conclusion

Maintaining a Mercedes CLA45 C118 is essential to ensuring the car continues to deliver its high-performance capabilities and remains reliable over time. Adhering to the recommended A and B service schedule, along with regular checks of key systems like the brakes, tyres, and turbocharger, will help keep your vehicle in top condition. By staying on top of maintenance and addressing any issues promptly, you can enjoy the CLA45’s performance and luxury for years to come.