Mercedes CLA C117 (2013–2019) (2013 – 2019)

Reliability score : 8.0/10

The Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117 generation) is a compact '4-door coupé' based on the MFA platform of the A-Class (W176). Launched in 2013, it stands out with its spectacular design, record aerodynamics (Cd of 0.22), and frameless doors. A shooting brake variant (Shooting Brake - X117) was introduced in 2015. The model received a facelift in mid-2016, bringing aesthetic touches (LED headlights), an infotainment system update (smartphone integration), and, most importantly, an improvement in interior assembly quality, a weak point of the early model years. Although very appealing, the CLA sacrifices rear passenger space and suspension comfort for the sake of style. In terms of reliability, the gasoline engines (M270 family) are generally robust, provided they receive rigorous maintenance, partic

✅ Strengths

Spectacular and timeless exterior design
Exceptional aerodynamics (quiet on highways, reduced fuel consumption)
Very reliable and powerful M270 gasoline engines (1.6 and 2.0)
Secure road holding and dynamic behavior
Aesthetically very successful and more practical Shooting Brake version

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very limited rear passenger space (critical headroom for adults)
Firm suspension comfort (especially with 18/19-inch wheels and sport chassis)
Plastic quality and parasitic noises on pre-facelift models (2013-2015)
Poor rear visibility (reversing camera essential)
7G-DCT gearbox management sometimes hesitant at low speeds

🎯 Verdict

The Mercedes CLA C117 is an 'emotional purchase'. If you prioritize style over practicality, it's an excellent choice. The gasoline engines (CLA 180, 200, 250) are to be preferred for their overall high reliability and their suitability for the vehicle's premium character. Absolutely prioritize a facelifted model (from mid-2016 onwards) to benefit from an interior finish worthy of the star and a better-managed DCT gearbox. Avoid examples with a non-existent or unclear automatic gearbox oil change history.

Common issues

Problèmes de transmission 7G-DCT (boîte automatique à double embrayage) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 2 000 – 4 000 €

Tester la boîte à froid et à chaud, vérifier l'historique d'entretien et les vidanges de boîte.

Fuites d'huile moteur (M270/M274) au niveau du couvre-culasse ou du support de filtre Medium

🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 800 €

Inspecter régulièrement le moteur pour des traces d'huile, surtout autour du haut moteur.

Défaillance du turbocompresseur ou de son actionneur Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 200 – 2 500 €

Écouter les bruits anormaux (sifflement excessif), vérifier la perte de puissance.

Usure prématurée des silentblocs de suspension ou des bras de suspension Low

🔧 60 000 – 100 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Vérifier les bruits de claquement ou grincement sur routes dégradées.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 150
Timing chain	£750 – 1 400 (si remplacement nécessaire)
Complete brakes	£350 – 650
Estimated annual budget	£700 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.