Mercedes-Benz

GLA-Class (X156)

2015-2019 · Compact SUV · 1 engine
Best Engine ⚠️ Caution (2.7)
254 NHTSA Complaints
0 Recalls
3 Fire Reports
10 Crash Reports
Includes data from: AMG GLA45GLA-CLASS
View all 2 generations of the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class → 📋 Inspection checklist

Engine Reliability Ratings

270

2.0L 4-cyl Turbo / 208 hp
⚠️ Caution (2.7)
156 complaints 31.2 per year Gasoline
1 fire report
View details

Complaint Breakdown

engine
46
transmission
32
safety systems
28
other
22
electrical
20

Known Issues

Engine Issues (46 complaints)
Typical onset: 43,448–96,000 mi Est. repair: $1,750–$2,400 (7 reports)
Transmission Issues (32 complaints)
Typical onset: 44,953–74,096 mi
Safety Systems Issues (28 complaints)

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class regardless of engine variant.

Engine Issues (46 complaints)
engine serious
Transmission Issues (32 complaints)
transmission serious
Safety Systems Issues (28 complaints)
safety_systems serious
Electrical System Issues (20 complaints)
electrical critical
Fuel System Issues (17 complaints)
fuel_system critical

Alternatives in Compact SUV

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class problems?

The 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has accumulated 254 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Transmission, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class engine is most reliable?

The 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.0L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class a good used car?

The 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 254 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class have?

The 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has 254 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?

There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?

Before buying a used Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Transmission, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

Does the GLA-Class have NHTSA crash test ratings?

NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2015-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 254 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.

© 2026 The Weekly Driver