Last updated: 2026-04-09
2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Reliability Report
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class scores 58/100 ("Mixed"). With 15 recalls and 11 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
15
Complaints
11
Complaint Rate
13.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$908
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- POWER TRAIN (2)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (1)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is year 3 of the Fourth generation (W177).
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 4th generation A-Class (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2019: Fourth generation (W177) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2021: This Model Year
2021 is year 3 of the Fourth generation (W177).
Should You Buy the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
A 58/100 score puts the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2021 is year 3 of the Fourth generation (W177).
Complaint volume sits above average at 11 owner complaints alongside 15 recalls. Issues in electrical system (4) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put electrical system (4) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which scored 7 points higher. See also the 2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
- +Well-established generation
- +Only 11 complaints reported
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (4 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (2 complaints)
Compare 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class With
2021 Audi A4
Reliability: 71/100
2021 BMW 3-Series
Reliability: 67/100
2021 Lexus IS
Reliability: 83/100
2021 Audi A5
Reliability: 71/100
2021 Tesla Model 3
Reliability: 48/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 15 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- POWER TRAIN (2)
Recall Overview
15
recalls on record
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has 15 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
13.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 16.9
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Recall Details
15 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 CLS450, E450, E450 All-Terrain, AMG E53, AMG GT43, AMG GT53, and 2021 AMG CLS53 vehicles. The 48-volt ground cable connection located in the engine compartment may not be tightened properly and may result in the ground cable overheating.
Consequence
An overheated ground cable increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the 48-volt ground cable connection and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 22, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024MMNNNN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2024 GLE, GLS, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, GLC, CLS, AMG GT, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, causing a loss of drive power.
Consequence
A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 28, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on February 23, 2024, April 19, 2024, June 28, 2024, August 9, 2024, October 1, 2024, and December 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 23V-445.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AMG GT43, 2019-2022 AMG E53, E53 Coupe, E53 Cabriolet, AMG GT53, and 2019-2021 AMG CLS53 vehicles. The transmission wiring harness may be misrouted, which can expose the electrical connector to corrosion, and result in an electrical short-circuit.
Consequence
An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and repair the electrical connector, as necessary. Dealers will also reroute the harness and install an additional bracket. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 14, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022080010.
Showing 10 of 13 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
Buying a used 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class? Check its history first
Every 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Mercedes-Benz A-ClassRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$908
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| No Start Diagnosis | $198 – $291 |
| Purge Valve Replacement | $187 – $229 |
| AC Compressor Clutch Replacement | $1,321 – $1,452 |
| Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recover | $61 – $90 |
| Washer Fluid Level Sensor Replacement | $226 – $326 |
| Engine Mount Replacement | $2,560 – $3,400 |
| Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing | $198 – $291 |
| Ignition Coil Replacement | $237 – $294 |
| Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement | $639 – $704 |
| Pinion Seal Replacement | $209 – $259 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
Test rearview camera for blank screen when reversing
Verify recall repairs have been completed, especially for electrical system
Check for sudden loss of power or inability to shift gears
Inspect for any dashboard fault lights related to active rear wing
Ensure vehicle can shift into neutral and restart after shutdown
2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Common Problems by Component
11 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class frequently report issues related to recall repairs not being completed due to unavailable parts. Common symptoms include a blank rearview camera screen while reversing, with no warning lights to indicate the issue. These problems are often linked to specific recall campaigns, and owners typically note that repairs are pending due to parts distribution delays. Complaints often occur around the 10,000-mile mark, with no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control associated with these electrical system issues. This information may be relevant for potential buyers considering the vehicle's maintenance history and recall status.
POWER TRAIN
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class frequently report issues with the vehicle's powertrain, specifically involving sudden loss of power and inability to shift gears. Complaints describe symptoms such as the accelerator ceasing to function, the vehicle becoming immobile, and engine shutdowns accompanied by mechanical odors and ticking noises. These incidents occur both shortly after purchase and during regular driving conditions, with one report detailing failures within the first year of ownership. Safety implications include the vehicle becoming stuck in traffic, creating hazardous situations with oncoming traffic and the inability to manually override and move the car to safety. Potential buyers should be aware of these reliability issues and the associated risks of unexpected powertrain failures.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report issues related to the vehicle's active rear wing, specifically actuator failures that prevent the wing from providing necessary downforce. This malfunction is described as occurring at varying speeds and during braking, with the fault light appearing on the dashboard. Some owners indicate that replacements are frequently requested, but the same part is used, and availability is limited. Safety implications are noted, as the non-responsive wing could potentially lead to dangerous driving conditions. Additionally, one owner mentions a recall with uncertain timelines for resolution, suggesting possible delays in addressing these issues.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintRear view camera says it is inoperative when I put it in reverse. I understand that a number of Mercedes models have been recalled due to a software issue but the dealer tells me my car is not on the list. The problem I have is identical to the other models. My car should be on the list
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe driver’s seatbelt failed to properly engage during a high-speed rear-end collision allowing his head and face to strike the steering wheel causing a loss of consciousness and other symptoms of traumatic brain injury. Thus far the problem has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer but it is believed the seat belt was inspected by EMTs responding to the scene. Additional documentation will be provided when received. There were no warnings or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. This report is filed on behalf of the owner and driver by their attorney.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintTraveling at 65 MPH in the right-hand lane * Driving Assistance ON * Traffic Sign Assist ON * Speed Limit Adoption ON Staying in the right-hand lane, I pass by an offramp Sudden deceleration to 20 MPH – Phantom braking This has happened twice traveling past the same offramp. Since, I have turned the Speed Limit Adoption OFF Note that this particular off ramp has more than one speed limit sign (yellow) visible from the freeway. My guess is that the Mercedes is reading the off ramp signs and interpreting them to be for the freeway and not for the off ramp. I consider the sudden deceleration to be dangerous
When Do 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Mercedes-Benz A-Class year is 2022 with a reliability score of 65/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2026 (64/100) and 2020 (59/100).
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years to Avoid
The worst Mercedes-Benz A-Class year is 2018 with a score of 48/100, primarily due to power train (10) issues. Also avoid 2024 (50/100).
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Reliability Score Trend
Mercedes-Benz A-Class reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 57/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 48/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 55/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 50/100 | Mixed |
| 2026 | 64/100 | Good |
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
How many recalls does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class have?
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
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
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.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
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.
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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Mercedes-Benz Models
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Score: 82/100
Mercedes-Benz CLA
Score: 64/100
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Score: 76/100
Mercedes-Benz EQE
Score: 61/100
Mercedes-Benz EQS
Score: 61/100
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Score: 77/100
Browse More 2021 Vehicles
2021 Lexus ES
Score: 88/100
2021 KIA Sedona
Score: 88/100
2021 Lexus RX
Score: 86/100
2021 Honda HR-V
Score: 86/100
2021 Nissan Frontier
Score: 84/100
2021 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue