2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insight into the issue. A visual inspection under the hood is also crucial; look for any obvious signs of damage to wires, hoses, or connectors that could indicate a problem. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, using an OBD-II scanner is a practical next step. This tool connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that can help identify specific problems. Once you have the error codes, consult your owner's manual to understand their meanings and recommended actions. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it can signal a range of issues that may require attention. One of the most frequent culprits is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust gases and regulating fuel efficiency. Another simple yet often overlooked problem is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and trigger the warning light. More complex issues may involve the catalytic converter, which is essential for reducing harmful emissions; if it fails or operates inefficiently, it can illuminate the check engine light. Additionally, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, affecting engine performance. Worn spark plugs and faulty ignition coils are also common causes, as they can lead to misfires and overall engine inefficiency. Lastly, problems with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve can contribute to emissions issues, further prompting the check engine light. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding these potential problems can guide you in diagnosing the issue, but it’s always wise to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough evaluation if the light remains illuminated.

What immediate actions should be taken for a check engine light on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it’s crucial to act swiftly to prevent further complications. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose cap can often trigger the light and is an easy fix. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning indicators that may provide insight into the problem. It’s advisable to avoid heavy acceleration or high-speed driving during this time, as these actions could exacerbate any underlying issues. If the light persists, scheduling a diagnostic test with a qualified mechanic is essential to pinpoint the exact cause. Additionally, pay attention to any unusual symptoms such as strange noises or vibrations, as these could indicate more serious problems that require immediate attention. Addressing these concerns promptly not only ensures your safety but also helps prevent potential damage to your vehicle, making it vital to take these steps seriously.

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2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Check Engine Light Causes