Probably the sleekest and sexiest model in the Mercedes-Benz compact series is the Mercedes-Benz CLA. The CLA offered those that prefer a more modern look over the classic sedans that Mercedes-Benz had on offer a compromise with the CLA. Unfortunately, you can no longer purchase a standard CLA new as MBM only has the CLA 45 on sale now, but there are still plenty on the used car market. But what are the issues to look out for?

Common issues

To find out more about the common issues on the Mercedes-Benz CLA C117, we once again consulted Mr Nizam from Merz Auto Garage in Taman Melawati.

According to Mr Nizam, the CLA is not immune to the common issues that can be found on most continental cars like the failing of the O2 Sensor. When the O2 sensor fails, the check engine light will turn on. Replacing the O2 Sensor usually cost around RM 650.

The wheel speed sensors on the CLA are also known to fail easily. When this happens, it will affect the car’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and the stability controls. It usually costs around RM 300 to replace the sensor on each wheel.

Other than that, the CLA’s auxiliary battery is also another item that falls in the common issue category. For your information, most German cars run on 2 batteries. For Mercedes, when the auxiliary battery fails, it will usually affect the car’s auto-start stop system. Replacing the battery will cost around RM 320.

One common complain among CLA owners is an overheating engine. This is usually caused by a leak in the water pump on the cooling system. Replacing the water pump will set you back at least RM 1,600.

Service cost

Like most cars, the CLA needs to be serviced every 10,000 km. The cost to service the car is usually around RM 400 to RM 550.

Other than servicing the engine, you will also have to service the car’s dual-clutch transmission (DCT) which will usually cost around RM 750 to RM 900.

Interestingly, the DCT on the CLA is a reliable unit, there are hardly any complains about massive issues or premature wearing even on a car has done 200,000 km.

But though there aren’t any issues, the clutch will still need replacing when the time comes which will cost around RM 4,400.

Other services like air-conditioning or component replacements like brake pads and spark plugs will usually cost the same as a Japanese car.

Which model should I get?

Even though the pre-facelift model is now on the used car market for around RM 105,000, we still recommend that you fork out a little more for the facelift model. The facelift will often allow brands to address any common issues experienced by owners of the pre-facelift hence it is a better choice.

Based on the specifications, the Mercedes-Benz CLA facelift sold from 2016 onwards is the model you should aim for as it gives you the best value for money if the car has been well taken care of.

We also recommend aiming for a car that has not been modified to ensure you get the original Mercedes-Benz quality.

The CLA on the used car market

Based on our research, a Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 AMG Line 4Matic facelift registered in the year 2016 is now selling on the used car market for around RM 165,000. This model is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that produces 211 PS and 350 Nm paired to a 7-speed DCT.

It comes with various premium features like auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto park assist, ambient lighting, electric seats with memory function, and 4Matic all-wheel-drive (AWD).

If your driving style doesn’t require AWD, then a CLA 200 AMG Line registered in 2017 would be more suitable for you. This model is on sale for around RM 156,000. It is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine that produces 156 PS and 250 Nm of torque.

But if you’re looking for something more unique, there are also reconditioned CLA 180 AMG Line models on sale in the used car market for around RM 166,000.

The car features 2-zone automatic air-conditioning, rear air-con vents, keyless entry and push-start button along with Adaptive Cruise Control and blind-spot indicator. The CLA 180 is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine that dispenses 122 PS and 200 Nm.

A friendly reminder that the price you see on used-car listing websites are usually not the final price, there are often extra charges that you will need to pay to be able to transfer the ownership to yourself.

Like all our used-car guides, we recommend to purchase a car direct from an owner instead of a used car shop to avoid any issues like mileage tampering. Buying directly from an owner will also allow you to get the full-service record of the car you are looking at.

Not only will the service record be proof that there has not been any mileage tampering, you will also get a first hand understanding of how the previous owner cared for the car.

But we still suggest sending the car to a trusted mechanic to get a full check on whether important components like the air radiator, gearbox, and brakes are still in good condition or if the car has sustained damage from previous accidents or flood.

Conclusion

Although the Mercedes-Benz CLA is lacking the modern features that the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan has to offer, the CLA is still one sexy looking sporty sedan. And now that the price has dropped by almost half of a new car, it also doesn’t require you to fork out a lot of money to maintain the car.