The Mercedes CLA is a compact premium saloon coupe — essentially a four-door coupe version of the A-Class. The C117 (2013–2019) and C118 (2019–present) are both on UK roads. Competing with the Audi A3 Saloon and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. Known for its striking styling — the CLA brings the look of the S-Class coupe to a more accessible price point. Popular with image-conscious buyers who want four doors and a boot alongside premium badge value.
Quick Facts — Mercedes CLA
Common Engines
1.3 petrol (CLA180/CLA200), 2.0 petrol (CLA250), 1.5 diesel (CLA180d), 2.0 diesel (CLA200d/CLA220d), AMG CLA35/CLA45
6 Most Common Mercedes CLA Problems
These are the faults most frequently seen on the Mercedes CLA by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and what they cost to fix.
Diesel CLA models on short urban journeys develop DPF blockages — a compact diesel coupe used for city commuting is a high DPF risk.
💷 Typical repair cost: £150–£1,200
The 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic on the C118 CLA produces low-speed judder and hesitation in traffic — the same well-documented issue as on the A-Class and GLA.
💷 Typical repair cost: £400–£2,500
The C117 uses a 7-speed DCT which also develops judder and mechatronic faults on higher mileage examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £400–£2,000
C118 CDI CLA models require AdBlue. Sensor faults and running dry cause warnings.
💷 Typical repair cost: £10–£700
The CLA's sloping roofline severely limits rear headroom — important to check before buying, especially for taller rear passengers. Not a fault but a common buyer complaint.
💷 Typical repair cost: N/A — design characteristic
The CLA's raised boot sill makes loading heavy items more difficult than a conventional saloon — a design trade-off for the styling.
💷 Typical repair cost: N/A — design characteristic
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Mercedes CLA — MOT Tips
DPF warning is an automatic MOT fail on diesel CLAs. AdBlue warning is MOT-relevant on C118 CDI models. 7G-DCT warning lights must be clear. EML is an automatic fail. All ADAS systems must be functional on C118 models.
Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a
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Mercedes CLA Tyres
Most Mercedes CLA models run 225/45 R17 or 235/40 R18 or 245/35 R19 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.
Summary
The CLA is a desirable and stylish compact premium coupe. The C118 CLA200 petrol is the most practical and reliable choice. Avoid diesel for city use. The 7G-DCT judder is the most commonly reported issue — a manual gearbox avoids it entirely. The AMG CLA35 is a very capable performance coupe at an increasingly competitive used price.
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