Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-AMG A45 W176 buying guide
The first A45 AMG, built from 2013 to 2018, put a 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder, four-wheel drive and a dual-clutch gearbox into the A-Class hatchback. Power rose with the 2016 model year update, which also brought revised gear ratios and new driving modes.
The versions
- 2.0 litre turbocharged inline four (1,991cc), 360hp at launch
- 2016 model year update: 381hp and 350lb ft
- 4Matic part-time four-wheel drive
- Seven-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch gearbox with paddles
- Five-door hatchback only (the A35 arrived with the next generation)
What to check on a W176 A45
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Slow or jerky downshifts
What to look for: On the test drive, let the car slow to a crawl and feel the change from second to first, and select reverse from a standstill a few times. A distant thud or a slight push on slow downshifts, or when selecting drive, is normal. Jerky or slow downshifts, or a crunch going into reverse, are the things to note.
Why it matters: Pre-2015 cars had early gearbox problems with exactly these symptoms. Some gearboxes were replaced under warranty, Mercedes recalled some cars for work on the dual-clutch assembly, and a software update was issued. Cars still showing it are now rare, and paperwork for the update is reassuring.
Turbo health on early cars
What to look for: Ask whether the turbo has ever been replaced, and look for the invoice. On the drive, listen for whistling or rattles from the engine bay under boost, and watch that power builds smoothly.
Why it matters: Cars built before about February or March 2014 lacked an anti-surge valve, so boost pressure could only escape through the turbo impeller, wearing it early. Several turbos were replaced under warranty, and Mercedes reportedly checked every car, so many early cars have already had the work.
Signs of heavy launch control use
What to look for: Pull away briskly from a standstill a few times. Starts should be clean. Juddery starts or odd noises from the drivetrain as the car moves off are the things to note, as is a seller keen to demonstrate Race Start.
Why it matters: Repeated use of Race Start, AMG's launch control, puts the gearbox under heavy strain and can damage it. Smooth, quiet getaways are a sign of a car that's been driven sensibly.
Also in the full guide
- Gearbox and differential oil services
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the W176 A45
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mercedes-Benz.