Last updated: 2026-05-15

Acura Integra vs Mercedes-Benz CLA: Reliability Compared

More ReliableAcura Integra reliability comparison

Acura Integra

68
GoodReliability score: 68 out of 100, rated Good
VS
Mercedes-Benz CLA reliability comparison

Mercedes-Benz CLA

46
MixedReliability score: 46 out of 100, rated Mixed

Choosing between the Acura Integra and the Mercedes-Benz CLA? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two compact sedans.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Acura Integra currently leads with an average score of 68/100 compared to 46/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Acura Integra and Mercedes-Benz CLA Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Mercedes-Benz CLA is in its second generation, having been redesigned in 2019. It received a facelift in 2023, indicating it is in the latter part of its generation cycle. Mature platforms like this tend to have improved reliability as earlier issues are typically resolved. In contrast, detailed generation history for the Acura Integra is unavailable, making it challenging to gauge its platform maturity. Generally, newer platforms can experience first-year issues, while vehicles late in their cycle often benefit from refinements. Buyers prioritizing reliability might consider the CLA's more established platform.

Verdict

The Acura Integra is more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz CLA, scoring 68/100 vs 46/100.

The Acura Integra outperforms the Mercedes-Benz CLA in reliability, with a higher average score of 68/100 compared to the CLA's 46/100. The Integra also has fewer owner complaints per 10,000 sold, at 28 compared to 46 for the CLA, and a significantly lower recall count of 9 versus the CLA's 606 over a similar period. Independent repair cost estimates for the Integra are $801 annually, which, while not available for the CLA, suggests a more predictable maintenance expense for Acura owners. Key issue areas for both models include electrical systems and steering, but the Integra's overall reliability profile is notably stronger.

Key Differences

  1. 1Acura Integra has 597 fewer total recalls
  2. 2Acura Integra scores 22 points higher in reliability
  3. 3Acura Integra has 18.0 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

3Acura Integra
—
0Mercedes-Benz CLA
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Acura Integra vs Mercedes-Benz CLA: Which Is More Reliable?

Acura Integra vs Mercedes-Benz CLA at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricAcura IntegraMercedes-Benz CLA
Reliability Score68/10046/100
Years Tracked47
Total Recalls9606
Complaints per 10k Sold2846
Year Wins10

What Are the Common Problems With the Acura Integra and Mercedes-Benz CLA?

The problem profile of the Acura Integra is dominated by steering issues, accounting for 237 of its 268 total complaints, with two being crash-linked, indicating a significant reliability concern in this area. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz CLA's most frequent issues pertain to the electrical system, with 241 complaints, including 11 crash-linked incidents, suggesting a major focus on electronic reliability. While both models exhibit some concerns with airbags, the CLA reports a notably higher number of crash-linked airbag complaints (13) compared to the Integra's two. Additionally, the CLA has a broader array of issues across categories such as engine and power train, highlighting a more diverse problem set compared to the Integra's concentrated steering issue.

Acura Integra vs Mercedes-Benz CLA common problem areas comparison
ComponentAcura IntegraMercedes-Benz CLA
STEERING24.8High2.3Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM0.3Very Low6.2Average
UNKNOWN OR OTHER0.7Very Low4.8Average
ENGINE—None4.5Average
POWER TRAIN0.2Very Low3Low
SERVICE BRAKES0.2Very Low1.1Low
AIR BAGS0.2Very Low1Very Low
FUEL SYSTEM—None1Very Low
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL—None0.9Very Low
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE0.4Very Low0.4Very Low
STRUCTURE—None0.8Very Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION—None0.2Very Low
SUSPENSION—None0.2Very Low
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM—None0.2Very Low
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING—None0.2Very Low
VISIBILITY—None0.1Very Low
SEAT BELTS—None0.1Very Low
SEATS—None0.1Very Low
WHEELS—None0.1Very Low

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Acura Integra or Mercedes-Benz CLA?

Independent repair cost data indicates that the Acura Integra has an annual repair cost of $801 with an average of 0.7 repair visits per year. This implies a relatively low frequency of repairs, which suggests reliability. Unfortunately, specific data for the Mercedes-Benz CLA's annual repair cost and frequency is unavailable, making direct comparisons challenging. However, luxury vehicles like the CLA typically incur higher repair costs due to premium parts and service requirements. For cost-conscious buyers, the Acura Integra stands out as a more economical choice. Its predictable maintenance expenses and lower repair frequency suggest fewer unexpected costs, offering better value over time compared to the potentially higher and more unpredictable expenses associated with the Mercedes-Benz CLA.

How Does Acura Integra vs Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Compare by Year?

Acura Integra vs Mercedes-Benz CLA year-by-year reliability scores
YearAcura IntegraMercedes-Benz CLAEdge
202468/1005R / 61C44/1008R / 23CAcura Integra
2026(predicted)68/100(predicted)42/100(predicted)Acura Integra

Best years to cross-shop: The 2024 Acura Integra scored 68/100 and the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA scored 44/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Acura Integra vs the Mercedes-Benz CLA?

If you prioritize reliability and lower running costs, the Acura Integra is the better choice for you. With a reliability score of 68/100, it outperforms the Mercedes-Benz CLA, which has a score of only 46/100. The Integra's estimated annual repair cost is $801, and it has a repair frequency of 0.7 times per year, suggesting fewer visits to the mechanic. Despite having 9 recalls, the Integra still presents a more dependable option, with fewer owner complaints per 10,000 sold at 28 compared to the CLA’s 46. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the prestige and features typically associated with luxury brands, the Mercedes-Benz CLA might catch your eye. However, you should be prepared for potential challenges, as it has a significantly higher number of recalls at 606. This indicates a higher likelihood of encountering issues, especially with its electrical system and engine. If you choose the CLA, ensure you have a robust warranty or maintenance plan to mitigate unexpected repair costs.

Acura Integra vs Mercedes-Benz CLA: Common Questions

Is the Acura Integra more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
Based on our data, the Acura Integra is more reliable with an average score of 68/100 compared to 46/100. That's a significant difference worth considering.
Which has more recalls, the Acura Integra or the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The Mercedes-Benz CLA has more recalls (606) compared to the Acura Integra (9). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Acura Integra or the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Acura Integra has a lower complaint rate at 28 per 10,000 vehicles sold versus 46 for the Mercedes-Benz CLA. Normalizing by sales gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Related Reliability Comparisons

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How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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