2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Is Leaking Oil

Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
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 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is leaking oil?

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.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the initial steps to diagnose an oil leak in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

When diagnosing an oil leak in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and undercarriage. Look for any visible signs of oil, such as puddles or drips, particularly around the oil pan, oil filter, and other engine components. Next, check the oil levels to ensure they are within the manufacturer's recommended range; a significantly low level may indicate a leak. Pay special attention to the oil filter and drain plug, as these are common sources of leaks; tighten the drain plug if it feels loose and replace the oil filter if it shows any signs of damage. If the leak remains elusive, consider adding UV dye to the engine oil, which can help illuminate the leak's source when viewed under a UV light. For a more precise diagnosis, conducting a pressure test on the oil system can reveal leaks in oil lines, gaskets, or seals. If these steps do not yield clear results, consulting a qualified mechanic or a Mercedes-Benz specialist is advisable for a comprehensive inspection and repair. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively identify and address oil leaks in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is the degradation of the oil pan gasket, which can wear down over time, leading to leaks. Similarly, the valve cover gasket is another area of concern; as it ages, it may fail, allowing oil to escape from the top of the engine. Additionally, a faulty oil filter housing gasket can create leaks around the oil filter, while worn oil cooler lines may also contribute to oil seepage due to wear and tear. Lastly, damaged oil seals, particularly those around the crankshaft and camshaft, can deteriorate and result in leaks. Addressing these issues promptly is essential not only for maintaining engine performance but also for preventing further damage. Regular inspections and maintenance can help DIY enthusiasts catch these problems early, ensuring their vehicle remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to a significant drop in oil levels, which compromises engine lubrication and can result in severe engine damage over time. Additionally, the presence of oil in the engine can lead to contamination, adversely affecting performance and reducing the lifespan of your vehicle. Beyond mechanical concerns, an oil leak poses serious safety risks; oil dripping onto hot engine components can ignite, creating a fire hazard. By addressing the leak promptly, you not only safeguard your engine from further damage but also protect yourself and others on the road from potential dangers. Therefore, it is essential to act quickly to ensure the safety and longevity of your Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG.

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2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Oil Leak Causes & Repairs