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Mercedes Benz Cla 250 Problems

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is a compact four-door coupe offering Mercedes styling and technology at an accessible price point. With 250 complaints and no recorded deaths, the CLA 250 uses a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 221 horsepower with front or all-wheel drive. It's designed to attract younger buyers to the Mercedes brand, competing with the Audi A3 and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe.

250
Total Complaints
29
Total Recalls
8
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2018
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2022 2023 2024

Common Problem Categories

Unknown Or Other 36
Electrical System 36
Engine 26
Air Bags 24
Structure 16

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2025 6 0 0 0 Good
2024 4 0 0 0 Good
2023 14 0 4 0 Good
2022 4 0 0 0 Good
2021 16 4 2 0 Average
2020 58 10 2 0 Below Average
2019 48 6 4 0 Below Average
2018 100 9 2 4 Avoid

Mercedes Benz Cla 250 Years to Avoid

The 2018 model year leads complaints with transmission hesitation, infotainment problems, and build quality concerns. The first-generation CLA (2014-2019) generally showed more issues than the improved second generation launched in 2020.

Best Mercedes Benz Cla 250 Years

The 2022 and newer CLA 250 models benefit from the second-generation platform with improved interior quality, better technology integration, and refined drivetrain. The 2021 models are also solid choices as initial second-generation issues were resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CLA 250 reliable?

The second-generation CLA 250 (2020+) has proven more reliable than the first generation. The 2.0L turbo engine is shared across multiple Mercedes models and is generally dependable with proper maintenance.

Is the CLA a real Mercedes?

Yes, but it's Mercedes' entry-level sedan using a front-wheel-drive platform unlike traditional rear-drive Mercedes. Interior materials and ride quality don't match larger Mercedes, but it's a genuine Mercedes with the brand's technology.

CLA 250 versus A 220?

The CLA 250 offers identical mechanicals in a four-door coupe body with a sloping roofline. The A 220 sedan has more headroom and a larger trunk. Choose based on styling preference; performance is identical.

Is the CLA 250 fast?

The CLA 250 reaches 60 mph in about 6.3 seconds, adequate for daily driving and occasional spirited acceleration. It's not a sports car but provides enough performance for most owners. The AMG CLA 35 offers more for speed seekers.

What does CLA maintenance cost?

Expect $1,000-$1,600 annually for scheduled maintenance including synthetic oil changes and inspections. The CLA uses simpler technology than larger Mercedes, keeping repair costs more manageable.