Last updated: 2026-04-20

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA
RELIABILITY SCORE: 38/100 (RISKY)

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Report

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA scores 38/100 ("Risky"). With 76 recalls and 272 owner complaints, this model year has significant reliability concerns.

Recalls

76

Complaints

272

Complaint Rate

N/A

Est. Repair Cost

$908

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,400–$2,550

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint SeverityN/A

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact34/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue DiversityN/A

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Avoid

Significant reliability concerns — explore more reliable alternatives.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (40)
  • FUEL SYSTEM (26)
  • STEERING (21)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 4)

2022 is year 4 of the Second generation (C118; 2019).

  • Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • A refresh arrives in 2023.
  • 2nd generation CLA (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2019: Second generation (C118; 2019) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2022: This Model Year

2022 is year 4 of the Second generation (C118; 2019).

2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA?

Scoring 38/100 ("Risky"), the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA shows significant reliability concerns. 2022 is year 4 of the Second generation (C118; 2019).

Reports run heavy: 272 owner complaints and 76 recalls. Problem areas include electrical system (47).

Skip this one unless the price is well below market and a comprehensive warranty is included. If you do proceed, an independent mechanical inspection is essential.

Compared to the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA, which scored 6 points higher. See also the 2021 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 volume
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: 48-volt battery system, which frequently malfunctions and leads to engine... (40 complaints)
  • FUEL SYSTEM issues reported (26 complaints)
  • 4 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
  • Safety recall: park-it advisory issued

Compare 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 76 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (40)
  • FUEL SYSTEM (26)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

76

recalls on record

Park It

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA has 76 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

272

complaints
LowAvgHigh
High

Safety Incidents

16

Crashes

4

Fires

17

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA Recall Details

76 recalls have been issued for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V1160002025-02-24

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 S 500, Maybach S 580 4MATIC, 2021-2023 S 580 4MATIC, 2022 S 680 4MATIC, and 2023 S 580e 4MATIC vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.

Consequence

A brake fluid leak can extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2025030007.

24V2070002024-03-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2023-2024 GLE 350, 2020-2024 GLE 450, 2020-2023 GLS 580, GLE 580, 2019-2023 GLS 450, 2021-2023 Maybach GLS 600, AMG GLS 63, 2021-2024 AMG GLE 53, AMG GLE 53 Coupe, and AMG GLE 63 S vehicles. A 48-Volt ground connection under the passenger seat may not be secured properly, resulting in the ground connection overheating.

Consequence

An overheated ground connection can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and tighten the 48-Volt ground connection as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 3, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024040002.

24V1180002024-02-16

POWER TRAIN

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2023 GLE 450 and GLS 450 vehicles. The transmission may not fully downshift in certain conditions, causing the engine to stall.

Consequence

An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the transmission control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Showing 10 of 34 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →

VIN History Report

76 recalls and a score of 38 — check any 2022 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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 18.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso (Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Mercedes-Benz CLARepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5

Based 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.

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated 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

24–25 city / 33–36 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 2022 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
CLA250 2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM7)253629$2,400
CLA250 4matic 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM7)243327$2,550

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA.

  • Test steering for vibrations at moderate to high speeds

  • Inspect for any electrical system warning lights or malfunctions

  • Check forward collision avoidance system for unexpected braking

  • Verify recall repairs for fuel system issues are completed

  • Examine sunroof for any signs of stress or damage

  • Test brakes for responsiveness and any unusual noises

  • Ensure the vehicle does not unexpectedly accelerate or decelerate

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA Common Problems by Component

272 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

40
26
74
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (40)FUEL SYSTEM (26)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (24)STEERING (21)POWER TRAIN (18)ENGINE (18)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (16)SERVICE BRAKES (11)Other (74)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

40 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several recurring electrical issues with the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA, particularly involving the 48-volt battery system, which frequently malfunctions and leads to engine shutdowns while driving. These incidents often occur without warning and are sometimes accompanied by overheating warnings, impacting vehicles even with low mileage around 3,500 to 25,000 miles. Complaints frequently mention the car stalling or losing power unexpectedly, posing significant safety risks, especially on highways, and in some cases, these failures have resulted in crashes and fires. Additionally, multiple reports describe problems with fuel sensors inaccurately displaying fuel levels, leading to unexpected vehicle shutdowns. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues and the associated safety implications when considering this model.

40 complaints total2 crashes2 fires2 injuries

FUEL SYSTEM

26 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA report issues primarily related to delays in recall repairs, with a significant number of complaints indicating that parts for the fuel system recall are not yet available. Some owners mention experiencing a loss of power and engine stalling while driving, often accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard. These symptoms are sometimes noted at mileage as low as 11,500 miles. There is one reported incident involving a crash and injury, where the vehicle's steering unexpectedly lurched, resulting in a collision with a parked vehicle. Used car buyers should be aware of these reported issues, particularly the potential for unresolved recall repairs and the associated safety implications.

26 complaints total1 crash1 injury

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

24 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent issues with the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA's panoramic sunroof, which spontaneously explodes or shatters without impact, often while driving, leading to glass shards entering the cabin. Complaints typically describe a loud explosive sound followed by falling glass, with several incidents occurring at highway speeds. Mileage at the time of these incidents varies, with some vehicles having over 50,000 miles. Additionally, two reports involve vehicle fires, one leading to a car explosion, and two injuries are noted in connection with sunroof failures. These issues pose significant safety risks, including potential for driver distraction, injury from glass, and risk of collision due to sudden loss of vehicle control.

24 complaints total2 fires2 injuries
STEERING (21 complaints)

STEERING

21 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent steering wheel vibrations in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA, particularly when driving over road irregularities at speeds ranging from 45 to 90 mph. These vibrations are often described as lasting several seconds and can occur when encountering potholes, bumps, or uneven surfaces. Some complaints also mention a total loss of steering control at highway speeds, leading to crashes, including one with an injury. Incidents of steering issues have been noted at mileages as low as 3,100 miles, and multiple attempts to resolve these issues with dealership interventions, such as software updates, have not consistently resolved the problems. These patterns suggest potential safety risks, especially at high speeds or during adverse road conditions.

21 complaints total3 crashes1 injury
POWER TRAIN (18 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

18 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report power train issues, particularly involving unexpected deceleration and loss of power. Typical symptoms include the vehicle failing to accelerate, stalling, or getting stuck in lower gears, with some instances of the car shifting to neutral unexpectedly. These issues often occur without warning lights, although some reports mention check engine lights or other warnings. Complaints generally arise at varying mileages, but some note problems around 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with two reports involving crashes due to sudden loss of power, highlighting potential hazards in traffic or on highways.

18 complaints total2 crashes
ENGINE (18 complaints)

ENGINE

18 complaints

Owners report recurring issues with the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA's engine, particularly involving misfires and cylinder head failures. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as loss of power, stalling, and illuminated check engine lights. These issues often arise around 10,000 to 70,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with reports of vehicles stalling in traffic and one injury mentioned. Used car buyers should be aware of these patterns, as repairs can be costly and may impact vehicle reliability.

18 complaints total1 injury
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (16 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

16 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, particularly involving unexpected activation of the emergency braking system. Complaints often describe the vehicle braking abruptly without any apparent obstacles, with some incidents occurring at highway speeds, posing a risk of rear-end collisions. These braking issues are noted at various mileages, including as low as 1,500 miles and up to 8,000 miles. Additionally, some owners mention problems with the vehicle's sensors and cameras, such as messages indicating "sensors are dirty" or "camera view restricted," which disable safety features until the vehicle is restarted. One report includes a crash attributed to a failure of the Active Brake Assist system. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns, as they suggest possible safety concerns and the need for thorough inspection before purchase.

16 complaints total1 crash
SERVICE BRAKES (11 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

11 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA report several issues with the service brakes, with complaints frequently mentioning sudden, unintended braking and brake failures. Symptoms described include the vehicle stopping independently without driver input, brakes feeling "squishy" or unresponsive, and instances where the car fails to stop despite full brake pedal depression. These issues occur at various mileage points, with some reports at as low as 1,000 miles and others around 20,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, with one report of a crash resulting in minor injuries due to brake failure. Additionally, problems with brakes seizing after exposure to moisture and automatic braking engaging without cause are noted, posing potential risks of rear-end collisions.

11 complaints total1 crash1 injury
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (10 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

10 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report issues with the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA's vehicle speed control, with complaints frequently mentioning unintended acceleration and abrupt deceleration. Common symptoms include the vehicle accelerating without input, failing to accelerate properly, and incorrect speed limit readings causing sudden braking or speeding. These issues often occur at various speeds, including highway conditions, and involve both mechanical and software-related factors. One complaint involves a crash with an injury, highlighting potential safety risks. The problems are reported across different mileage ranges, with some occurring as early as 5,000 miles, suggesting potential concerns for used car buyers regarding reliability and safety.

10 complaints total1 crash1 injury
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)

AIR BAGS

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA report issues with airbags not deploying during collisions. Complaints frequently mention that airbags fail to activate in severe crashes, including both frontal and side impacts, resulting in injuries such as neck, shoulder, and head trauma. Most reports involve vehicles with low mileage, ranging from 200 to 1,192 miles. These incidents involve significant safety implications, as all reported cases include crashes and injuries, with some vehicles being destroyed. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported airbag deployment failures in crash situations.

3 complaints total3 crashes4 injuries

When Do 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

3,000–19,000 milesSteering vibrations
3,500–25,000 milesElectrical system failures
1,500–8,000 milesForward collision avoidance issues

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

The 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.

38
Risky

2022

(Current Model)

76Recalls
272Complaints

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.

Mercedes-Benz CLA reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201846/100Mixed
201944/100Mixed
202056/100Mixed
202145/100Mixed
202238/100Risky
202444/100Mixed

Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202642/100 (predicted)Predicted00
202444/100+6Mixed823
2022(selected)38/100-7Risky76272
202145/100-11Mixed149318
202056/100+12Mixed62110
201944/100-2Mixed196523
201846/100Mixed115529

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA Common Questions

10 questions from 2022 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.

VisitorApr 7, 2026

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

VisitorApr 5, 2026

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

Mar 26, 2026

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

VisitorMar 26, 2026

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

VisitorMar 20, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA reliable?
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA has a "Risky" reliability rating of just 38/100. With 76 recalls and 272 complaints, it falls below average. An extended warranty is recommended.
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (40 complaints), FUEL SYSTEM (26 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (24 complaints), STEERING (21 complaints), POWER TRAIN (18 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA have?
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA has 76 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA expensive to maintain?
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA may have above-average maintenance costs. Its reliability score of 38/100 and 272 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely.

Don’t buy a 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA 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.

Look Up a VIN →

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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