Used Mercedes-Benz GLA200

What to know before buying: Mercedes-Benz GLA200

From 3 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• Owners rated the 2013–2019 GLA at 7.6/10, including 7.8 for reliability, 7.5 for comfort and 7.3 for the engine.[1]one source
• The source views the GLA's mechanical dependability positively but notes electronic gremlins and a 73/100 quality and reliability score, the lowest among the cited rivals.[3]one source
• The recall summary lists 35 GLA recalls, with 2016 and 2017 cars having the most listed categories at six each.[2]one source

Typical faults

• Over-sensitive collision-prevention sensors can trigger an error and disable automatic braking; a 2014 GLA 200 owner also reported safety systems cutting out.[1][3]
• Reported transmission faults include a “Reverse not possible” warning, power loss, skipped gears and some cars selecting neutral while moving because of control-module software.[3]one source
• Random parasitic battery drain is reported on the GLA; some owners had the auxiliary battery replaced as many as three times in under two years.[3]one source
• Several GLAs reportedly showed a check-engine light at about 35,631 km, after which workshops identified a defective cylinder head and some injectors requiring replacement.[3]one source

  35 631–35 631 km

• On first-generation 2014–2020 GLAs, a PCV-valve defect can send oil into the intake, degrade plastic parts and cause carbon buildup that harms performance and economy.[3]one sourceFirst generation

  2014–2020

• The sunroof's plastic rail guide can eventually break and compromise its watertight seal; a 2014 GLA 200 owner also reported a failed sliding roof.[1][3]
• On some GLAs, the electric fuel-door latch stops locking or releasing, potentially requiring the emergency release before the car can be refuelled.[3]one source
• Windscreens have reportedly cracked without an obvious cause; some dealers attributed this to poor installation that allowed the glass to contact the body.[3]one source

Which engine and version to take

• The sources do not justify singling out a GLA 200 engine: both petrol and diesel units are Mercedes-built, so favour a car with full history and completed recalls.[3]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Check every recall by VIN and obtain documentation that the required work was completed; the sources list 35 recalls for the GLA.[3][2]
• During the test drive, select reverse repeatedly and watch for warnings, power loss, skipped gears or an unexpected shift into neutral.[3]one source
• Fully open and close the sunroof, check the rail action and seal, and inspect the headlining for evidence of water ingress.[1][3]
• Test both batteries, review stored faults and confirm reliable starting after the car has stood; ask whether the relevant electronics update was installed.[3]one source
• With the engine cold and warm, check warning lights and diagnostic codes, and establish whether the cylinder head or fuel injectors were previously replaced.[3]one source
• Inspect the intake and service records for signs of PCV trouble, oil contamination or carbon buildup, particularly on a 2014–2020 car.[3]one sourceFirst generation
• Confirm that the fuel door locks and releases reliably and that its emergency-release mechanism is intact.[3]one source
• Closely inspect the windscreen edges and body contact areas for cracks or evidence of poor previous installation.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]autozine.nl — Forum Mercedes-Benz GLA (2013 - 2019) · press
2. [2]problemaserecalls.com — Problemas comuns dos carros Mercedes-Benz GLA por ano · press
3. [3]suvhelp.com — Mercedes GLA Problems: 12 Common Issues - SUV Help · press

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