Skip to content
KickTyres
Mercedes-Benz2013–2023 Critical issues documented

Mercedes-Benz GLA: common faults & what to check

Thinking about buying a used Mercedes-Benz GLA (2013–2023) in New Zealand? We've documented 21 known faults for this model spanning engine, transmission, cooling, and fluid leaks. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Every one is listed below with its symptoms and repair cost, and each has its own page with where to look and what to ask the seller. Free, no account needed.

Check this exact Mercedes-Benz GLA

  • Odometer history
  • Money owing
  • Reported stolen
  • Ownership history
  • Official NZ vehicle register data
  • NZ owned and operated

Type the plate for the free basics. The full record is a paid check from $13.49, one car at a time, no subscription.

No NZ plate yet, or buying in Australia? Pick the generation and engine and start a free check below. New to KickTyres? How the check works →

21

Documented faults

Critical

Most serious

$900–$3,500

Typical repair

7

Systems covered

Which Mercedes-Benz GLA are you looking at?

3 generation variants documented. Pick the shape you recognise: the faults, the servicing and the timeline below all narrow to it. Free, no account needed.

Now narrow it to the engine

A 1.8 and a 2.4 of the same car do not fail the same way, so the faults below narrow to the engine as well as the year. Free, no account needed.

Start your free check on this Mercedes-Benz GLA

No plate needed. You get the risk score, the buyer's checklist and the guided inspection for the exact car you picked above — not the whole nameplate.

Mercedes-Benz GLAEngine not picked yet

Pick the engine above first: the GLA came with 3, and without it the report has to show all of their faults. Pick the engine

Free. The paid plate check is separate, and stays optional.

Can't confirm for this car

Mercedes-Benz GLA

Nothing has been narrowed yet, so nothing below is a claim about a particular car. Pick a year and an engine to see which faults apply.

Tell us the engine, or check the engine code on the car, before relying on this.

matched on no vehicle context

What to look out for

The checks worth doing on a Mercedes-Benz GLA before you hand over any money. Every documented fault is listed below, each with its own page.

  • Serious issue

    Perform a cold start with bonnet open and listen carefully for chain rattle before oil pressure builds.

    See why

    M270/M274 Timing Chain Guide Wear - Cold Rattle

    The M270 and M274 petrol engines in the GLA200 and GLA250 share the same plastic timing chain guide and tensioner design flaw as the W176 platform. Cold-start rattle is the definitive symptom and can progress to chain stretch and eventual timing jump if ignored. NZ-market vehicles are often subject to longer service intervals than recommended, accelerating guide deterioration. The repair requires front engine cover removal and typically involves replacing the full chain kit including guides, tensioner, and the chain itself. Parts cost alone runs NZD 600-1000 with significant labour on top. Chain failure mid-drive causes immediate catastrophic engine damage.

    What you would notice

    • Loud rattling or ticking on cold engine start from front of engine
    • Noise settles within 20-30 seconds as oil pressure builds
    • MIL with P0016 or P0017 camshaft timing correlation codes
    • Rough idle when cold
    • Engine runs rough or loses power in advanced cases

    Typically $1,800–$4,000 to put right.

  • Serious issue

    Inspect the inlet manifold for carbon deposits and confirm swirl flaps have been removed or replaced with an aftermarket delete kit.

    See why

    OM651 2.1D Intake Swirl Flap Fracture and Engine Ingestion

    The OM651 2.1-litre diesel uses swirl flaps in the inlet manifold to optimise combustion at low loads. The plastic flap mechanisms and their retaining pins are known to fracture under carbon build-up and heat cycling. Broken flap pieces are ingested into the engine through the intake ports, causing immediate and severe internal damage including bent valves and damaged pistons. This is a well-documented fault across the entire Mercedes OM651 engine family used in GLA 220d variants.

    What you would notice

    • Sudden catastrophic engine knock or metallic banging noise followed by loss of power
    • Rough running on one or more cylinders after an incident
    • Check Engine light with misfire codes on affected cylinders
    • Blue or white smoke from the exhaust following ingestion event
    • In pre-failure state: slight rattle or rattling from the inlet manifold area at idle

    Typically $1,500–$15,000 to put right.

  • Serious issue

    Listen carefully for any unusual low-frequency noise from the lower engine at idle with the vehicle stationary on flat ground.

    See why

    OM651 Balance Shaft Chain and Oil Pump Drive Failure

    The X156 GLA220d fitted with the OM651 2.2CDI diesel shares the same lower-engine chain system vulnerability as other OM651 applications across the Mercedes range. The balance shaft module is driven by a secondary chain from the crankshaft, and this chain along with its tensioner are prone to wear and failure. An oil pump drive chain failure on this engine can be catastrophic as oil pressure loss occurs rapidly, leading to terminal bearing damage within seconds. The failure is most common on higher-mileage examples and those with extended oil service intervals. This fault pattern was also documented in the Sprinter van, W205 C-Class diesel, and W212 E-Class diesel which share the same engine.

    What you would notice

    • Low-frequency rumbling or rattling from bottom of engine at idle
    • Oil pressure warning light illumination
    • Increased engine vibration at idle or low RPM from failing balance shaft
    • Metal swarf in engine oil detected at service
    • Sudden engine seizure in terminal failure scenario

    Typically $3,500–$12,000 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    During the test drive perform multiple low-speed pull-aways from rest on flat ground and note any shudder or jerk.

    See why

    7G-DCT Clutch Pack Wear and Mechatronics Failure

    The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission fitted across all X156 GLA variants develops clutch plate wear below the 1.8 mm service threshold and mechatronics unit failure, producing harsh jerking shifts — particularly during the 2nd-to-3rd gear change — after 60,000 km. Transmission fluid degradation and overheating accelerate internal clutch wear. Software adaptation drift also contributes to shift quality deterioration and requires a STAR diagnostics reset every 40,000 km.

    What you would notice

    • Harsh jerk or lurch when shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear under moderate load
    • Shudder or hesitation when pulling away from rest, especially when cold
    • Grinding or clunking noise during gear changes
    • Transmission slipping or unexpectedly dropping out of gear

    Typically $1,600–$5,500 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Check engine oil level and condition — diesel dilution causes the oil to smell of fuel and the level to read high.

    See why

    OM607 1.5D DPF Blockage and Regeneration Failure

    The OM607 1.5-litre diesel is a small-capacity engine that struggles to achieve exhaust temperatures high enough for passive DPF regeneration on short urban trips. The DPF becomes blocked with soot, triggering forced active regeneration cycles. If the vehicle is switched off mid-regeneration repeatedly (typical urban use), the DPF reaches a state where it cannot be regenerated by driving and requires forced dealer regeneration or physical replacement. Oil dilution from failed regen cycles compounds the problem.

    What you would notice

    • DPF or engine warning light on dashboard
    • Increased fuel consumption or oil level rising above maximum
    • Noticeably reduced power output with limp mode engagement
    • Strong diesel or burning smell from exhaust during attempted regeneration
    • Engine management light with fault codes P2002 or P244A (DPF efficiency below threshold)

    Typically $600–$4,500 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Low-speed pull-away test — multiple repetitions in a car park.

    See why

    7G-DCT / 8G-DCT Dual-Clutch Shudder (X156/H247)

    GLA X156 models with 7G-DCT exhibit the same low-speed dual-clutch shudder documented across the A, B and CLA compact platform. H247 GLA (2020+) uses the revised 8G-DCT, which is more refined but can still shudder when fluid is degraded. The GLA's AWD 4MATIC application adds complexity — 4MATIC units with DCT shudder sometimes exhibit behaviour at the rear coupling in addition to the primary transmission.

    What you would notice

    • Shudder pulling away from rest on light throttle
    • Judder in slow traffic or car parks
    • Hesitation or jerk on light-throttle take-off
    • In 4MATIC variants: additional vibration from rear driveline during shudder events

    Typically $900–$4,200 to put right.

See all 21 documented issuesEverything researched for the Mercedes-Benz GLA, including 4 rated critical.
Depends on which engine this Mercedes-Benz GLA has — 21Each of these is documented for one particular engine. Pick the year and engine above to see which of them apply.
Engine, transmission & cooling16

01OM651 2.1D Intake Swirl Flap Fracture and Engine Ingestion

Inspect the inlet manifold for carbon deposits and confirm swirl flaps have been removed or replaced with an aftermarket delete kit.diesel2013–2019Engine
OccasionalEngine $1,500–$15,000 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The OM651 2.1-litre diesel uses swirl flaps in the inlet manifold to optimise combustion at low loads. The plastic flap mechanisms and their retaining pins are known to fracture under carbon build-up and heat cycling. Broken flap pieces are ingested into the engine through the intake ports, causing immediate and severe internal damage including bent valves and damaged pistons. This is a well-documented fault across the entire Mercedes OM651 engine family used in GLA 220d variants.

Symptoms to notice

  • Sudden catastrophic engine knock or metallic banging noise followed by loss of power
  • Rough running on one or more cylinders after an incident
  • Check Engine light with misfire codes on affected cylinders
  • Blue or white smoke from the exhaust following ingestion event
  • In pre-failure state: slight rattle or rattling from the inlet manifold area at idle

What to check

  1. Inspect the inlet manifold for carbon deposits and confirm swirl flaps have been removed or replaced with an aftermarket delete kit.
  2. Check for any history of manifold replacement or swirl flap work.
  3. Listen for sudden metallic noise or immediate rough running which indicates ingestion has already occurred.

Where to look: Inlet manifold, intake runners leading to each cylinder head port

Parts involved: Intake manifold.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the inlet manifold ever been inspected, replaced, or had a swirl flap delete performed?”
  • “Has the car ever had a sudden engine noise event or loss of power while driving?”
  • “Is there any workshop record of swirl flap inspection or manifold work in the service history?”

02OM651 Balance Shaft Chain and Oil Pump Drive Failure

Listen carefully for any unusual low-frequency noise from the lower engine at idle with the vehicle stationary on flat ground.diesel2013–2019Engine
OccasionalEngine $3,500–$12,000 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The X156 GLA220d fitted with the OM651 2.2CDI diesel shares the same lower-engine chain system vulnerability as other OM651 applications across the Mercedes range. The balance shaft module is driven by a secondary chain from the crankshaft, and this chain along with its tensioner are prone to wear and failure. An oil pump drive chain failure on this engine can be catastrophic as oil pressure loss occurs rapidly, leading to terminal bearing damage within seconds. The failure is most common on higher-mileage examples and those with extended oil service intervals. This fault pattern was also documented in the Sprinter van, W205 C-Class diesel, and W212 E-Class diesel which share the same engine.

The front of a dual overhead camshaft engine with the timing cover removed, exposing the timing chain and sprockets.Example of the part — not this vehicle

The front of a twin-cam engine with the timing cover off — chain, sprockets and guides.

Logansenf · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Low-frequency rumbling or rattling from bottom of engine at idle
  • Oil pressure warning light illumination
  • Increased engine vibration at idle or low RPM from failing balance shaft
  • Metal swarf in engine oil detected at service
  • Sudden engine seizure in terminal failure scenario

What to check

  1. Listen carefully for any unusual low-frequency noise from the lower engine at idle with the vehicle stationary on flat ground.
  2. Check oil level and appearance for metallic contamination.
  3. Verify oil change history under 10,000km intervals using correct MB 229.51 diesel specification oil.
  4. Ask specifically whether the balance shaft chain has been inspected.
  5. If a workshop inspection is possible: An independent pre-purchase inspection including engine oil analysis is strongly recommended on examples with over 100,000km.

Where to look: Lower engine block, balance shaft and oil pump drive chain assembly below crankshaft centreline

Parts involved: Timing chain.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the balance shaft chain system been inspected or replaced?”
  • “Has an oil pressure warning light ever illuminated on this vehicle?”
  • “What oil specification and change interval has been used throughout ownership?”
  • “Is there any lower engine noise history recorded in workshop invoices?”

03OM651 2.1CDi Timing Chain and Guide Failure

diesel2013–2019EngineRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

04M270/M274 Timing Chain Guide Wear - Cold Rattle

Perform a cold start with bonnet open and listen carefully for chain rattle before oil pressure builds.petrol2013–2019EngineRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

05M260 2.0T Exhaust Valve Seat Ring and Guide Wear

Scan for active or historic misfire codes P0301 through P0304 and identify which cylinders are implicated.petrol2020 onwardEngine
OccasionalEngine $5,000–$13,000 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Mercedes-Benz acknowledged that M260 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines produced between 2019 and 2022 suffer premature wear of exhaust valve seat rings and valve guides. Worn seat rings allow combustion gases to bypass the valve face, producing thermodynamic imbalances, cylinder compression loss, and persistent misfires. In response Mercedes-Benz issued an extended warranty covering cylinder head replacement or rebuild for a period of 15 years from manufacture date or 241,000 km in many markets. The fault can appear as early as 10,000-40,000 km in affected units. Mercedes will not undertake preventive replacement — the warranty applies only after confirmed failure.

Symptoms to notice

  • Persistent misfire or rough idle on specific cylinders confirmed by fault codes P0301-P0304
  • Loss of power and elevated fuel consumption compared to baseline
  • Check engine light that returns after clearing without mechanical repair
  • Failed warrant of fitness or registration emissions test due to elevated hydrocarbons

What to check

  1. Scan for active or historic misfire codes P0301 through P0304 and identify which cylinders are implicated.
  2. Verify the vehicle's manufacturing date and confirm through a Mercedes-Benz dealer whether the 15-year extended cylinder head warranty applies and whether a claim has already been lodged.
  3. If a workshop inspection is possible: Perform a cylinder leakdown test to confirm exhaust valve seat loss — leakdown above 15 percent per cylinder indicates seat ring wear.

Where to look: Cylinder head, exhaust valve seats and valve guides

Parts involved: Cylinder head.

Ask the seller

  • “Has this vehicle had a cylinder head replacement or repair under the M260 extended warranty?”
  • “Has the car ever shown a misfire code or check engine light that returned after resetting?”
  • “What is the vehicle's manufacturing date and has the dealer confirmed extended warranty eligibility?”

06M133 AMG 2.0T Excessive Oil Consumption

Check the dipstick level and request the seller show the last service invoice with oil level noted.petrol2013–2019Engine
OccasionalEngine $800–$12,000 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The hand-built M133 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the GLA 45 AMG exhibits above-normal oil consumption across a significant proportion of units, with owners recording losses of 0.5 to 1.5 litres per 1,000 km under sustained high-load driving. Mercedes-Benz acknowledges up to 0.8 litres per 1,000 km as within specification, but consumption at the high end points to piston ring blow-by or valve stem seal wear accelerated by the engine's regular operation above 6,000 RPM. Neglecting to top up oil in an engine that routinely sees peak power output risks oil starvation to bearings and turbocharger during track use or extended motorway driving.

Symptoms to notice

  • Low oil warning light illuminating between services set at 10,000 km or less
  • Blue-tinted exhaust smoke on hard acceleration or during engine braking on overrun
  • Oil level dropping more than 0.5 litres per 5,000 km
  • Fouled spark plugs showing oily carbon deposits at service

What to check

Check the dipstick level and request the seller show the last service invoice with oil level noted. Ask to see any receipts for oil top-ups between services. During the test drive observe exhaust colour during a hard throttle application and on the overrun after sustained motorway speed. If a workshop inspection is possible: Arrange a compression and leakdown test if elevated oil consumption is suspected from service history review.

Where to look: Piston rings and valve stem seals, internal engine

Parts involved: Turbocharger.

Ask the seller

  • “How often does the engine require an oil top-up between scheduled services?”
  • “Has the vehicle ever produced blue smoke from the exhaust during hard driving?”
  • “Has a compression or leakdown test ever been performed on this engine?”

07Turbo failure from contaminated oil feed line (GLA 45 AMG 2.0 M133 turbo)

Ask for the Mercedes service record and whether the turbo oil feed line campaign (2014120001) was checked or the turbo replaced.petrol2014–2015Engine
OccasionalEngine $0–$6,500 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

On early X156 GLA 45 AMG cars with the 2.0 M133 turbo petrol, the oil feed line to the turbocharger could be contaminated, starving the turbo bearings and wearing them out early. Mercedes ran service campaign 2014120001 from January 2015: the turbo shaft play was measured and, if over 0.08 mm, the turbo and oil feed lines were replaced, which was expected on about one car in four. A car that missed the campaign may still have a worn turbo.

Symptoms to notice

  • Whistle or siren noise from the turbo under boost
  • Blue or grey smoke from the exhaust
  • Loss of boost or limp mode
  • Oil use between services

What to check

Ask for the Mercedes service record and whether the turbo oil feed line campaign (2014120001) was checked or the turbo replaced. On the test drive, listen for a whistle or siren from the engine bay under boost and watch the mirror for smoke when accelerating hard after idling. Check the oil level on the display. If a workshop inspection is possible: have the turbo shaft axial play measured (over 0.08 mm means a worn turbo) and check for oil in the intercooler pipes.

Where to look: Engine bay, turbocharger and its oil feed line

Parts involved: Turbocharger.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the turbo or turbo oil feed line ever been replaced?”
  • “Was the Mercedes turbo campaign checked on this car?”
  • “How much oil does it use between services?”

087G-DCT Clutch Pack Wear and Mechatronics Failure

During the test drive perform multiple low-speed pull-aways from rest on flat ground and note any shudder or jerk.2013–2019TransmissionRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

09OM607 1.5D DPF Blockage and Regeneration Failure

Check engine oil level and condition — diesel dilution causes the oil to smell of fuel and the level to read high.diesel2015–2023EngineRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

107G-DCT / 8G-DCT Dual-Clutch Shudder (X156/H247)

Low-speed pull-away test — multiple repetitions in a car park.petrol2013 onwardTransmissionRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

11Haldex 4Matic Rear Coupling Pump and Clutch Pack Failure

Ask for Haldex coupling oil service records (should be every 40,000 km).2013–2023Transmission
OccasionalTransmission $800–$3,500 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The X156 GLA 4Matic uses a Haldex-based rear coupling unit to distribute torque to the rear axle. The Haldex coupling relies on its own internal oil and an electrically driven pre-charge pump to engage the clutch pack. When the coupling oil is not serviced on schedule (typically every 40,000 km, but often neglected) the clutch pack wears prematurely and the pump fails. The result is a 4Matic system that cannot transfer power to the rear wheels, rendering the vehicle effectively front-wheel drive with a warning light.

Symptoms to notice

  • 4WD or 4Matic warning light on the instrument cluster
  • Loss of traction at the rear on loose or wet surfaces despite 4Matic badge
  • Whining or grinding noise from the rear drivetrain area under load
  • ESP or traction control intervening excessively on low-traction surfaces
  • Vibration through the driveline when cornering under power

What to check

  1. Ask for Haldex coupling oil service records (should be every 40,000 km).
  2. Check for 4Matic or ESP warning lights.
  3. On a suitable surface, apply moderate throttle from rest — a functioning Haldex system should feel planted and pull cleanly; slipping or spinning at the front only indicates coupling failure.
  4. Request an inspection of the Haldex pump and oil condition.

Where to look: Rear axle, Haldex coupling unit mounted ahead of the rear differential

Parts involved: Clutch.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the Haldex rear coupling oil ever been changed, and is there a service record for it?”
  • “Has the 4Matic or ESP warning light ever appeared on the dashboard?”
  • “Has any workshop ever noted rear drivetrain noise or reduced traction on slippery surfaces?”

12M270 timing chain stretch (X156 petrol)

Arrange a genuine cold start and listen at the front of the engine for a rattle that fades as oil pressure builds.petrol2014–2020Engine
CommonEngine $1,800–$3,500 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The GLA's M270 1.6/2.0 turbo petrol stretches its timing chain from around 80,000 km, signalled by a metallic rattle for several seconds on cold start. Early cars are the most affected. Replace the chain, tensioner and guides as a kit before it skips a tooth and damages valves.

The front of a dual overhead camshaft engine with the timing cover removed, exposing the timing chain and sprockets.Example of the part — not this vehicle

The front of a twin-cam engine with the timing cover off — chain, sprockets and guides.

Logansenf · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Metallic rattle for several seconds on cold start
  • Rough idle or misfire
  • Correlation fault codes

What to check

Arrange a genuine cold start and listen at the front of the engine for a rattle that fades as oil pressure builds. Ask whether the chain has been replaced.

Where to look: Front of the engine behind the timing cover

Parts involved: Timing chain.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the timing chain been replaced?”
  • “Any rattle on the first cold start?”

13OM651 2.1D AdBlue SCR System and NOx Sensor Failure

Check AdBlue level and look for any warning messages relating to AdBlue quality or system faults.diesel2015–2019Engine
OccasionalEngine $900–$3,200 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Later GLA 220d variants with the OM651 engine use a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system requiring AdBlue (diesel exhaust fluid) to meet Euro 6 emissions. The AdBlue dosing pump, injector, and NOx sensors upstream and downstream of the SCR catalyst are all known failure points. When the system faults the vehicle enters a staged limp mode that progressively limits engine starts until the fault is resolved, as required by law. NOx sensor failures are particularly common and expensive at Mercedes dealers.

Symptoms to notice

  • AdBlue warning light or 'Refill AdBlue' message when tank is not actually low
  • Dashboard message stating a limited number of engine starts remain
  • Check Engine light with NOx efficiency or sensor fault codes
  • Increased fuel consumption with no change in driving pattern
  • Engine entering limp mode or refusing to start in advanced fault state

What to check

  1. Check AdBlue level and look for any warning messages relating to AdBlue quality or system faults.
  2. Ask if any warning about limited engine starts has ever appeared.
  3. Inspect the AdBlue tank and filler cap area for contamination.
  4. If a workshop inspection is possible: Connect an OBD scanner and check for NOx sensor fault codes (P20EE, P2201, P2202).

Where to look: Exhaust system (SCR catalyst), AdBlue tank in rear underbody, NOx sensors on exhaust pre and post catalyst

Parts involved: Fuel injector, Catalytic converter.

Ask the seller

  • “Has any AdBlue-related warning or message about limited engine starts ever appeared?”
  • “Has the NOx sensor or AdBlue pump been replaced, and is there a receipt?”
  • “Has the car ever entered limp mode or refused to start due to an emissions system fault?”

14M270 High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure

Check for hard-start behaviour especially when the engine is cold or hot-soaked.petrol2013–2019Engine
OccasionalEngine $1,200–$2,800 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The M270 1.6T direct-injection engine relies on a cam-lobe-driven high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) to deliver fuel at rail pressures up to 200 bar. The pump internals are susceptible to wear, particularly on vehicles that have been run on low-quality fuel or have extended oil change intervals. Failure causes insufficient fuel rail pressure, leading to hard starts, misfires, and in complete failure a no-start condition. Metal contamination from a failed pump can also damage injectors downstream.

Symptoms to notice

  • Extended cranking before the engine fires, particularly when cold
  • Stumbling, hesitation, or misfires under hard acceleration
  • Check Engine light with low fuel rail pressure codes (P0087, P0191)
  • Engine cutting out at high load or on motorway overtakes
  • Complete no-start with fuel smell but no combustion in severe cases

What to check

  1. Check for hard-start behaviour especially when the engine is cold or hot-soaked.
  2. Look for fault codes relating to fuel rail pressure (P0087, P0191).
  3. Ask about fuel quality history.
  4. If possible, have a dealer or specialist check live fuel rail pressure data against specification under load.

Where to look: Top of engine, driven off the inlet camshaft lobe, connected to the high-pressure fuel rail

Parts involved: High-pressure fuel pump.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the car ever been difficult to start, especially after sitting for a few hours in hot weather?”
  • “Has a low fuel pressure warning or Check Engine light relating to the fuel system appeared?”
  • “What fuel grade has been used consistently, and has the car been serviced on schedule?”

15M270 Water Pump Cover Cracking and Coolant Leak

Inspect the front lower engine area for coolant residue or staining.petrol2013–2019CoolingRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

16M282 1.3 turbo thermostat / coolant faults (H247)

Cold, check the coolant level and look for residue around the thermostat housing at the front of the engine.petrol2020 onwardCooling
OccasionalCooling $450–$1,300 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The second GLA's 1.3 turbo (M282) uses an all-in-one plastic thermostat housing (thermostat, temp sensor and bypass in one) that is a common leak/failure point, and the direct-injection engine builds intake-valve carbon over time. Neither is disastrous, but a coolant warning or rough cold running should prompt a look. Otherwise the engine is regarded as sound.

An annotated photograph of an automotive engine thermostat identifying the wax capsule and both disc valves.Example of the part — not this vehicle

A double-valve engine thermostat, labelled: the wax capsule is what sticks.

Dougsim · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Coolant temperature warning or wandering gauge
  • Sweet coolant smell / low coolant level
  • Rough idle from intake carbon build-up

What to check

Cold, check the coolant level and look for residue around the thermostat housing at the front of the engine. Confirm the temperature gauge sits steady when warm. On higher-km cars, a slightly lumpy idle can hint at intake carbon.

Where to look: Integrated thermostat housing at the front of the engine

Parts involved: Thermostat, Turbocharger.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the thermostat housing leaked or been replaced?”
  • “Does the temperature gauge stay steady?”
Electrical1

01MBUX infotainment freezes and glitches (H247)

Work through the MBUX screens, pair a phone, and reverse to check the camera responds promptly.2020 onwardElectrical
OccasionalElectrical $300–$3,500 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The H247 GLA's MBUX twin-screen system can freeze, reboot, drop CarPlay/Android Auto or lose the reversing camera. It is generally a software fix at a dealer, but confirm it all works because a head-unit replacement is expensive. Persistent faults after updates point to a hardware unit.

Symptoms to notice

  • Screen freezes or reboots
  • CarPlay/Android Auto dropouts
  • Reversing camera blank or laggy
  • Voice control unresponsive

What to check

Work through the MBUX screens, pair a phone, and reverse to check the camera responds promptly. Ask whether the latest software update has been done.

Where to look: Dashboard twin-screen MBUX display and head unit

Ask the seller

  • “Does the screen ever freeze or restart?”
  • “Is the MBUX software up to date?”
Body, brakes, suspension & interior2

01Front Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Premature Failure

During test drive, note any clunking from front suspension over speed bumps and rough road surfaces.2013–2019Suspension
CommonSuspension $600–$1,800 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The X156 GLA is subject to premature wear of the front lower control arm ball joints well before expected service life, particularly on NZ and Australian roads with variable surface quality. Failed or loose ball joints create a clunking or knocking sound over bumps and kerbs, imprecise steering feel, and in severe cases can cause sudden loss of directional control if the joint separates under load. The entire lower control arm must typically be replaced as the ball joint is not serviceable separately on this platform, making the repair relatively expensive. The failure is accelerated on vehicles that have been used off-road, on gravel roads, or in rural settings common across NZ.

The front wheel of a car splayed outward with the lower control arm hanging down after a ball joint separation.Example of the part — not this vehicle

A separated lower ball joint: the control arm has dropped and the wheel has splayed out under the guard.

Elfix · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Clunking or knocking from front suspension over bumps and rough surfaces
  • Vague or imprecise steering feel particularly at low speed
  • Vehicle pulls to one side under braking
  • Uneven or accelerated front tyre wear on inner or outer edge
  • Steering wheel vibration at highway speeds

What to check

During test drive, note any clunking from front suspension over speed bumps and rough road surfaces. With vehicle raised safely, grip each front wheel at 6 and 12 o'clock and attempt to rock it - any detectable movement indicates ball joint wear. Check front tyre wear pattern for unusual inner or outer edge wear indicating geometry issues from worn joints. A qualified technician pre-purchase inspection should specifically check ball joint condition.

Where to look: Front suspension lower control arm, ball joint at wheel carrier connection point

Parts involved: Ball joint.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the front suspension been inspected by a mechanic recently?”
  • “Have the front lower control arms or ball joints been replaced?”
  • “Is there any knocking or clunking from the front suspension over bumps?”
  • “Has the vehicle had a wheel alignment check in the past 12 months?”

02Panoramic sunroof rattle and drain leaks (X156)

Open and close the panoramic roof fully to confirm it operates.2014–2020Interior
OccasionalInterior $150–$900 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The optional panoramic glass roof rattles and creaks over bumps as its seals dry out, and blocked drains can let water into the headlining or footwells. The rattle is a comfort annoyance; a blocked drain that soaks the interior is worse and can reach electrics. Check the roof works, is quiet, and hasn't leaked.

Symptoms to notice

  • Rattle or creak from the roof over bumps
  • Damp headlining or footwells
  • Wind noise from the roof at speed

What to check

  1. Open and close the panoramic roof fully to confirm it operates.
  2. On the test drive over rough road, listen for rattles from above.
  3. Feel the headlining edges and front footwells for damp, and check the sunroof drains are clear.

Where to look: Panoramic glass roof, seals and corner drain tubes

Ask the seller

  • “Does the sunroof rattle or has it ever leaked?”
  • “Are the roof drains clear?”
Fluid leaks2

01M270/M133 Petrol Lower Timing Cover Oil Leak

With the engine warm, inspect the lower front of the engine below the timing cover for fresh oil weeping.petrol2013–2019Fluid LeaksRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

024MATIC Rear Propshaft Seal and Rear Differential Seal Leak

Inspect underneath the vehicle with a torch — check the rear prop-to-diff connection and the rear diff pinion nose for oil seepage or staining.petrol2013 onwardFluid Leaks
OccasionalFluid Leaks $500–$1,400 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

GLA X156 and H247 models with 4MATIC all-wheel drive develop rear propshaft output seal leaks and rear differential pinion seal leaks over time. The propshaft flange seal where the front gearbox interfaces with the rear prop is a known weak point. Oil loss from the rear diff is also documented. In NZ/AU where GLA buyers often use their vehicles on unsealed roads or light tracks, seal wear is accelerated by dust ingress and thermal cycling.

Symptoms to notice

  • Oil drips or staining under the vehicle centre-rear or at rear diff nose
  • Low rear differential fluid level
  • Whine or rumble from rear driveline as diff runs low on fluid
  • Visible oil film on rear propshaft or around diff flange

What to check

Inspect underneath the vehicle with a torch — check the rear prop-to-diff connection and the rear diff pinion nose for oil seepage or staining. On a test drive, listen for rear driveline whine at highway speed that changes with load. Verify 4MATIC rear coupling fluid condition. Any oil presence in this area warrants seal replacement before diff damage occurs.

Where to look: Rear propshaft-to-differential flange seal, rear differential housing underneath rear of vehicle

Parts involved: Differential.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the rear differential or propshaft seal been inspected or replaced?”
  • “Has the 4MATIC rear coupling fluid been changed?”
  • “Any drips or staining noticed under the rear of the car?”

Mercedes-Benz GLA faults in detail

Each of these has its own page: the symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller and what the repair costs. Free, no account needed.

7G-DCT / 8G-DCT Dual-Clutch Shudder (X156/H247)Major · Transmission7G-DCT Clutch Pack Wear and Mechatronics FailureMajor · TransmissionM270 Water Pump Cover Cracking and Coolant LeakMajor · CoolingM270/M133 Petrol Lower Timing Cover Oil LeakMajor · Fluid LeaksM270/M274 Timing Chain Guide Wear - Cold RattleCritical · EngineOM607 1.5D DPF Blockage and Regeneration FailureMajor · EngineOM651 2.1CDi Timing Chain and Guide FailureCritical · Engine

What these repairs cost on other cars

Some of the Mercedes-Benz GLA’s documented faults are repairs other models share. Each page lists the documented NZ cost for every model it affects.

Other Mercedes-Benz models

Mercedes-Benz C-Class41 documented faultsMercedes-Benz A-Class23 documented faultsMercedes-Benz E-Class23 documented faultsMercedes-Benz S-Class20 documented faultsMercedes-Benz GLC17 documented faultsMercedes-Benz Vito16 documented faults

Mercedes-Benz GLA buyer questions

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA reliable?

Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 21 documented faults for the Mercedes-Benz GLA, the recurring problem areas are engine, transmission, and cooling. A Mercedes-Benz GLA with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.

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

We've catalogued 21 known faults for the Mercedes-Benz GLA, covering engine, transmission, and cooling. All 21 are written out in full on this page, with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each. Free to read, no account needed.

How much do repairs cost on a Mercedes-Benz GLA?

Most single repairs on the Mercedes-Benz GLA fall between $900–$3,500 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 21 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.

Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Mercedes-Benz GLA?

Yes. A Mercedes-Benz GLA inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $24.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.