Used Mercedes GLA 2020-present review reliability

Category: Family SUV

A varied engine range, classy interior and comfortable ride make the Mercedes GLA a good buy, albeit a fairly pricey one. 

2021 Mercedes GLA alloy wheel
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA nose
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA rear
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA dashboard
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA side
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA alloy wheel
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA rear seats
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA dashboard
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA infotainment controller
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA side
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA alloy wheel
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA infotainment controller
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA nose
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA rear
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA dashboard
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA side
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA alloy wheel
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA rear seats
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA dashboard
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA infotainment controller
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA side
  • 2021 Mercedes GLA alloy wheel
  • 2020 Mercedes GLA infotainment controller
Used Mercedes GLA 2020-present review review
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by
Oliver Young
Published14 February 2024

What should I look for in a used Mercedes GLA-Class hatchback?

As a fashionable SUV, the Mercedes GLA is likely to have spent a lot of time around urban areas, such as high streets, multi-story car parks and supermarkets. That means you should check for dings in the bodywork caused by minor bumps. It’s also worth looking at the wheels for kerb damage; not only does this look scruffy, but kerb impacts can force the steering out of alignment and can indicate that the suspension has been subjected to heavy impacts.

What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes GLA-Class hatchback?

The GLA is yet to experience any major recalls.

Is a used Mercedes GLA-Class hatchback reliable?

While the GLA wasn't featured in our latest What Car? Reliability Survey, the previous 2014-2020 model did feature. It finished in 15th place out of 34 cars in the family SUV class with an overall score of 93.7%.

The GLA also shares its underpinnings with the Mercedes A-Class family car. This featured in the survey, with the petrol-powered version finishing in 24th place out of 29 cars in the family car class with a score of 82%, the diesel-engined version finished in 26th place with a score of 79% while the hybrid version finished in 21st place with a score of 87.5%.

As a brand, Mercedes came 24th out of 32 manufacturers with an overall score of 89.8%. This put it above Audi, Jaguar and Vauxhall but below BMW, Honda and Volvo.

Used Mercedes GLA reliability: owners' views

Although the GLA didn't have enough data to feature in the survey, What Car? readers have provided some feedback. The response is largely positive, with owners highlighting the car's reliability. There were minimal reports of mechanical failures, and any issues that did arise were often minor and swiftly addressed under warranty. The electrical systems, including the infotainment and connectivity features, are also noted for their robust performance, contributing to the GLA's commendable reliability score.

Dealer service for the GLA receives high marks as well. Readers appreciate the professionalism and efficiency of the Mercedes dealership network. Appointments are reportedly easy to schedule, and service is performed promptly, ensuring minimal disruption to owners. This seamless service experience, combined with the GLA's reliability, contributes to strong owner satisfaction.

In summary, the Mercedes GLA is celebrated for its reliability and the quality of dealer service, reinforcing its standing as a dependable choice for drivers.

To take part in our annual reliability survey with your car, please follow the link here

2020 Mercedes GLA rear seats