Used Mercedes CLA 2019-present reliability
Category: Coupé
The Mercedes CLA looks the part and has an upmarket interior. There's a slight question mark over reliability, mark you.
What should I look for in a used Mercedes CLA-Class coupe?
The CLA is quite long for a family car and the seating position is low, with awkward visibility out of that coupé-style rear. With that in mind, check the extremities of the car carefully for any dents or dings. Also, check the alloy wheels for any kerb damage. It’s worth checking any electrical equipment on board as well to make sure it all works.
What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes CLA-Class coupe?
There have been seven recalls for the CLA so far. Check with your local dealer that the works have been carried out.
Reason for recall
The air conditioning system on the affected vehicles might erroneously be filled with the incorrect refrigerant
How the manufacturer will repair
Replace the refrigerant in the air conditioning system on the affected vehicles.
Reason for recall
The mounting of an argon gas line to generator of the inerter system might not meet specifications.
How the manufacturer will repair
Check the mounting of the gas line to the gas generator on the affected vehicles and rework it if necessary.
Reason for recall
An electrical contacting inside the engine control unit might not meet the specification
How the manufacturer will repair
Replace the engine control unit on the affected vehicles.
Reason for recall
Under certain circumstances it might not be possible to shift into Drive or Reverse mode.
How the manufacturer will repair
Update the transmission control unit software of the affected vehicles.
Reason for recall
The software of the radar control unit might not meet the specification
How the manufacturer will repair
Update the software of the radar sensor control unit on the affected vehicles.
Reason for recall
Certain driver airbag modules might not be bolted onto the base plate.
How the manufacturer will repair
Check the driver airbag on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.
Reason for recall
The oil supply line of the turbocharger might leak
How the manufacturer will repair
Check the oil supply line of the turbocharger on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary
Is a used Mercedes CLA-Class coupe reliable?
Unfortunately, Mercedes as a brand didn’t do particularly well in the latest What Car? Reliability Survey, ranking 23rd out of 32 manufacturers.
This version of the CLA didn't feature, but the A-Class on which it's based didn’t do very well in the family car category, either. In a class of 37, it came in 31st place.
If you'd like to see the full reliability list, head to the What Car? Reliability Survey pages for more information.
