Last updated: 2026-04-20
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Report
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA scores 44/100 ("Mixed"). With 196 recalls and 523 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
196
Complaints
523
Complaint Rate
55.1per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$908
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,400–$2,550
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 (61)
- ENGINE (38)
- POWER TRAIN (32)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is the last model year of the First generation (C117; 2013).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 2 years after the last refresh (2017).
- 1st generation CLA (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2013: First generation (C117; 2013) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2017: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is the last model year of the First generation (C117; 2013).
Should You Buy the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
A 44/100 score puts the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2019 is the last model year of the First generation (C117; 2013).
Complaint volume sits above average at 523 owner complaints alongside 196 recalls. Issues in electrical system (81) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put electrical system (81) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA, which scored 12 points higher. See also the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
- +Well-established generation
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (61 complaints)
- −10 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
Compare 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA With
2019 BMW 3-Series
Reliability: 66/100
2019 Lexus IS
Reliability: 79/100
2019 Tesla Model 3
Reliability: 49/100
2019 Audi A5
Reliability: 73/100
2019 BMW 2-Series
Reliability: 73/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 196 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (61)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (53)
Recall Overview
196
recalls on record
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA has 196 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
55.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 18.3
Safety Incidents
26
Crashes
10
Fires
22
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA Recall Details
196 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 CLA250 and CLA250 4MATIC vehicles. The right side door locks may not have been properly manufactured. As a result, the right-side doors may not be able to be opened from outside of the vehicle.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, if the right side doors cannot be opened from the outside, it could increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door locks, free of charge. The recall began May 3, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019030020.
TIRES
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 E 400 Cabriolet, E 400 Coupe, 2019 E 450 Cabriolet, and E 450 Coupe vehicles. The tires were incorrectly marked with the wrong maximum inflation pressure and may not meet the strength requirements for the stated pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 139, "New Pneumatic Radial Tires for Light Vehicles."
Consequence
Tires inflated to an incorrect maximum pressure may have insufficient strength, allowing the tires to fail and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the tires as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2025010008.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLS 53 4MATIC, 2019-2023 E 53 4MATIC Cabriolet, E 53 4MATIC Coupe, E 53 4MATIC Sedan, 2021-2024 GT 43 4MATIC, and 2019-2025 GT 53 4MATIC vehicles. The transmission wiring harness connection might not have been correctly wired during a prior recall repair, and during production. 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 replace the two-part wiring harness and connector, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 9, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024100002/3. This recall supersedes recall 22V-533. Vehicles repaired under the prior recall will still need to have the new remedy performed.
Showing 10 of 71 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
196 recalls and a score of 44 — check any 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA before buying
With a below-average reliability score, a VIN check is especially important. Uncover hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that data alone can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.7%
Safety Technologies
Mercedes-Benz CLARepair 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.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA 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.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
27–29 MPG
Running cost: $3,300–$3,450/yr
Fuel + repair
24 city / 32–37 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLA250 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM7) | 24 | 37 | 29 | $2,400 |
| CLA250 4matic 2.0L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM7) | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,550 |
| CLA250 4matic 2.0L 4-cyl | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM7) | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,550 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA.
Inspect PCV valve for error code P052E
Test transmission for unexpected shifting into neutral
Check for electrical system warnings or malfunctions
Verify sunroof integrity for potential explosion risk
Inspect rims for cracks or deformation
Test brakes for proper engagement and response
Check for unintended acceleration during test drive
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA Common Problems by Component
523 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
61 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues related to the electrical system, with common problems including unintended acceleration and loss of motive power. Symptoms often described include warning messages such as "Malfunction" appearing on the display, vehicles accelerating by themselves, and instances where the vehicle fails to detect the key fob, leading to sudden power loss. Complaints also highlight issues with the instrument cluster, such as random shutdowns affecting visibility of critical driving information. Notably, five complaints involve vehicle fires, some occurring spontaneously while the car is parked, and two reports mention injuries. These issues are reported at various mileage points, with some occurring as early as 20,000 to 35,000 miles, indicating potential safety implications for prospective buyers.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
53 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues with the crankcase ventilation system, specifically citing error code P052E related to the PCV valve, which often occurs shortly after the warranty expires, around 50,000 to 58,000 miles. Complaints also commonly describe sudden sunroof explosions while driving, with no prior impact or warning, leading to shattered glass inside the vehicle. Additionally, unresolved recall notices and communication failures from dealerships are noted, with some owners experiencing difficulty in obtaining necessary repairs. Safety concerns are highlighted by reports of a vehicle malfunction leading to an inability to stop, resulting in a crash, and another incident involving a fire. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly regarding the sunroof and crankcase ventilation system, which appear frequently in owner reports.
ENGINE
38 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, as indicated by error code P052E71, leading to engine warning lights and potential emissions problems. Complaints also often mention engine stalling or loss of power during driving, with some instances of severe engine damage such as cracked pistons or faulty timing chains, typically occurring around 40,000 to 52,000 miles. Safety implications include sudden deceleration or loss of power at high speeds, posing a risk of collision. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring engine issues and the associated repair costs, which can be significant.
POWER TRAIN (32 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
32 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA's power train, notably involving the transmission unexpectedly shifting into neutral or failing to respond, often accompanied by check engine lights or warning indicators. Complaints frequently mention these problems occurring around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Some incidents involve sudden deceleration while driving at high speeds, posing potential safety risks, and two reports involve crashes and injuries. Additionally, several owners describe problems with the rear differential, including noise and the need for replacement, which may not be covered under warranty. These issues could result in loss of power or control, which prospective buyers should consider.
STEERING (31 complaints)
STEERING
31 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several steering-related issues with the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA, with common complaints involving steering wheel malfunction and loss of power steering. Symptoms frequently mentioned include the steering wheel locking during turns, shaking or vibrating, and a grinding or knocking noise when turning. Some owners experience these issues at mileage as low as 15,000 to 52,000 miles. Safety implications are notable, as two complaints involve crashes and one mentions a fire risk. Buyers should be aware of potential steering rack failures and the associated safety risks when considering this vehicle.
AIR BAGS (14 complaints)
AIR BAGS
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues with airbag deployment and seatbelt functionality. Common symptoms include airbags failing to deploy during crashes, as noted in four incidents, and spontaneous airbag deployment while driving, leading to injuries in some cases. Complaints also highlight seatbelt malfunctions, such as failure to adjust or restrain properly, with some reports indicating these issues occur intermittently. Several owners mention warning lights for airbag malfunctions, with some experiencing these problems around 50,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of injuries and vehicle damage due to airbag and seatbelt failures, making these issues pertinent for potential buyers to consider.
FUEL SYSTEM (14 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues related to fuel system failures, with common symptoms including strong gasoline odors inside and outside the vehicle, and sudden loss of motive power. Multiple complaints mention failures of fuel injectors, fuel rails, and fuel pumps, often occurring around 50,000 to 76,000 miles. Some owners also describe inaccurate fuel gauge readings and vehicle stalling. A crash resulting in two injuries is reported, highlighting potential safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly the recurring fuel odor and power loss, as they consider purchasing this model.
SERVICE BRAKES (10 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues with the service brakes, including problems with the brake system failing to engage properly, brake assist activating without cause, and electronic parking brakes sticking. Common symptoms described include brake pedals going to the floor, unexpected activation of the brake assist, and the electronic parking brake not releasing unless the accelerator is pressed, causing the car to jerk. Complaints often mention these issues occurring at low mileage, with some reports noting problems as early as 750 miles. Safety implications are evident, with two reports involving crashes due to brake failures. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential brake-related issues and consider inspecting the brake system thoroughly before purchase.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (6 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA report issues primarily related to engine components such as camshaft adjusters, crankshaft position sensors, and engine oil pump control solenoids. Symptoms often include the illumination of the check engine light, vehicle shuddering or hesitating, and loss of motive power. These issues typically arise around 31,000 to 100,000 miles. Notably, one complaint involves a fire while driving, though no injuries were reported. Buyers considering a used model should be aware of these common engine issues and the potential for severe outcomes.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (6 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA related to unintended acceleration and hesitation during acceleration. Complaints frequently mention unexpected surges in speed at low speeds, such as when maneuvering in parking lots or driveways, with some incidents resulting in crashes and injuries. The unintended acceleration is described as occurring without warning and too quickly to react, often leading to collisions with stationary objects like planters and garage doors. Additionally, some owners describe hesitation when accelerating from a stop, which can pose a safety risk in traffic. These issues are reported at various mileages, with some incidents occurring around 20,000 to 48,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple reports involve crashes and injuries.
When Do 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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. Current year highlighted.
| 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 |
Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Compared to Other Years
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA Common Questions
10 questions from 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA owners.
Disconnecting the Rack and pinion from the steering
Hello, I'm trying to disconnect the Rack and pinion from the steering as I have found a leak on the line that connects the 2 parts of it and need to remove it to look into it further, my issue is that even though I have unbolted all the bolts I don't understand how it will come off the steering shaft, do I just need to pull or do I need to unbolt something specific.
2000 mb E320 car will not crank with key fob
Ok car ignition switch operates,lights on dash and key fob locks and unlocks opens trunk but will not crank the car we have checked and manually operated start relay but no crank and while cranking no spark what gives alarm works tried locking and unlocking all tried leaving key on for 20 minutes nothing changed More than a week
No crank no start
My car was running fine until it got down to freezing point outside and then I went out to start the next day and my dash lights came on and my windows work but I have to jump the starter relay to start the car but it won’t shift outta 1st gear and my brake lights are staying on until I turn the ignition switch off but everything was fine b for the battery went dead and I changed the starter relay and still no crank no start….. Jumping the relay for the starter starts it but don’t shift outta 1st gear More than a month
Tumping Noise back right side
When driving slow and coming to a stop, my car make tumping noises, but when you drive at normal speed, it drives like a baby
New battery
My car won’t start when i turn the key over it don’t do nothing don’t make a sound but if i jump the starter relay with the car in the on position it’ll start but then when u drive it it won’t shift outta 1st gear my break lights stay on until i turn the car off all my dash lights come on like there supposed to and i got a check engine light on a abs lights stay comes on a bsa or something like that light comes on my srs light comes on and none of them turn off until i turn the key off all my windows work radio works seat memory still works and i haven’t had a battery on it in about a month a good one I’ve tried a couple diferent ones on it and none of the had enough juice to do anything but turn ones on it my dash lights and then it would die out i even tried jump starting the batterys but it still wouldn’t start the car the only way i can start it is by jumping the starter relay and i never had any of these problems until i changed the battery ooooo and my key fob isn’t working right When i jump start the starter relay makes it better but don’t shift outta 1st gear More than a month
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
How many recalls does the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA have?
Is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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
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 CLA.
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