2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Is Leaking Oil

Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2023 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 2023 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 2023 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 potential causes of an oil leak in a 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, and how should I diagnose it?

When diagnosing an oil leak in your 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex issues. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle's undercarriage, looking for any visible signs of oil pooling or streaks. Next, check the oil levels regularly; a sudden drop can indicate a leak. Pay close attention to the gaskets and seals, as these components are often the culprits behind oil leaks due to wear over time. Ensure that the oil filter and drain plug are securely fastened, as loose fittings can lead to oil seepage. If these initial checks do not reveal the source of the leak, consider conducting a pressure test to help pinpoint the issue. For a more precise diagnosis, adding UV dye to the oil can be beneficial; using a UV light will allow you to trace the leak's origin effectively. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the cause of the oil leak and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is a degraded or damaged oil pan gasket, which can occur due to the heat and pressure the engine experiences over time. Additionally, the valve cover gasket is another potential source of leaks, as it can wear out and allow oil to escape from the top of the engine. Another area to inspect is the oil filter housing gasket; if this component is faulty, it can lead to oil seeping around the oil filter. Furthermore, oil cooler lines are susceptible to leaks as they age, which can contribute to oil loss. Lastly, keep an eye on the oil seals around the crankshaft and camshaft, as cracks or wear in these seals can also result in leaks. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain engine health and performance, and regular inspections can help catch these problems early, allowing for effective DIY repairs.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in a 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent necessity that can significantly impact your vehicle's performance and safety. An oil leak can lead to a dangerous loss of lubrication, which may cause the engine to overheat and suffer severe damage, potentially resulting in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Moreover, neglecting this issue can create hazardous driving conditions, as spilled oil on the road increases the risk of accidents. For those who value their vehicle's warranty, timely repairs are essential, as delays could void coverage for related damages. Therefore, if you notice any signs of an oil leak, it is crucial to act swiftly to protect your investment, ensure your safety, and maintain the optimal functioning of your Mercedes-Benz.

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