Last updated: 2026-04-20
Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability by Year
The Mercedes-Benz CLA averages 46/100 across 6 model years, rated mixed.
Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Overview
The Mercedes-Benz CLA, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 48/100, indicating a mixed reliability reputation. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the electrical system, engine, and panoramic sunroof, with notable safety implications such as crashes and fires across various model years. With repair costs rated at 2/5, potential buyers should consider these factors when evaluating the vehicle's suitability for their needs.
Current generation: 2nd gen (2019–2023), facelifted 2023.
Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz CLA Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Mercedes-Benz CLA Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Mercedes-Benz CLA year is 2020 with a reliability score of 56/100, rated mixed. Other strong picks include 2018 (46/100) and 2021 (45/100).
Mercedes-Benz CLA Years to Avoid
The worst Mercedes-Benz CLA year is 2022 with a score of 38/100, primarily due to electrical system (47) issues.
Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Score Trend
Mercedes-Benz CLA reliability has declined in recent years, with newer models averaging 42/100 compared to 49/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 46/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 44/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 45/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 38/100 | Risky |
| 2024 | 44/100 | Mixed |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA
0 recalls · 0 complaints
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 0 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA.
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA
8 recalls · 23 complaints
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA has mixed reliability. There are 8 recalls and 23 owner complaints on file for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (6), Unknown Or Other (5), Seats (2).
2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA
76 recalls · 272 complaints
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA has poor reliability. There are 76 recalls and 272 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Severity signals include 16 crash-related complaints and 4 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (47), Fuel System, Gasoline (28), Unknown Or Other (22).
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA
149 recalls · 318 complaints
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA has mixed reliability. There are 149 recalls and 318 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Severity signals include 12 crash-related complaints and 8 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (80), Engine (52), Unknown Or Other (41).
2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA
62 recalls · 110 complaints
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA has mixed reliability. There are 62 recalls and 110 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Severity signals include 8 crash-related complaints and 5 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (15), Unknown Or Other (14), Engine (12).
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA
196 recalls · 523 complaints
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA has mixed reliability. There are 196 recalls and 523 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Severity signals include 26 crash-related complaints and 10 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (81), Unknown Or Other (65), Engine (52).
2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA
115 recalls · 529 complaints
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA has mixed reliability. There are 115 recalls and 529 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Severity signals include 25 crash-related complaints and 14 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (79), Electrical System (75), Unknown Or Other (73).
Found Your Mercedes-Benz CLA? Check Its History
Every Mercedes-Benz CLA has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Mercedes-Benz CLA Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
2/5
Mercedes-Benz CLA Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models
Compare all Mercedes-Benz models by reliability
Compare Mercedes-Benz CLA With Similar Sedans
The Mercedes-Benz CLA competes with other compact sedans such as Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, and Lexus IS.
Audi A4 reliability
6 years tracked · 180 complaints
BMW 3-Series reliability
9 years tracked · 183 complaints
Lexus IS reliability
9 years tracked · 44 complaints
Tesla Model 3 reliability
9 years tracked · 3948 complaints
Acura Integra reliability
4 years tracked · 268 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA reliable?
- The Mercedes-Benz CLA has mixed reliability with an average score of 46/100. Buyers should research specific model years carefully and consider an extended warranty.
- What is the best year for the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
- The best year for the Mercedes-Benz CLA is 2020 with a reliability score of 56/100, rated mixed. It has 62 recalls and 110 owner complaints on record. See full 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLAanalysis →
- What are the Mercedes-Benz CLA years to avoid?
- The Mercedes-Benz CLA years to avoid include 2022 (38/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Mercedes-Benz CLA?
- Annual maintenance cost estimates are not available for the Mercedes-Benz CLA. Based on its reliability score and complaint patterns, check individual year pages for repair cost details when available.
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.
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