Mercedes GLA X156 (2013–2020) Reliability Guide
The Mercedes GLA X156 , launched in 2013, is the brand's first compact SUV. Based on the platform of the A-Class W176 and the CLA C117, it combines comfort, design, and modern technologies in a versatile format, suitable for both city driving and long journeys.
However, as was often the case with Mercedes at that time, some engines and electronic components experienced teething problems . Here is our complete reliability guide for the GLA X156 , engine by engine, to help you choose the safest version to buy.
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Reliability of petrol engines
GLA 180 / GLA 200 (1.6 turbo – M270 engine)
Overall reliability:
This petrol engine, also used on the A-Class and CLA, is pleasant and efficient, but some examples have known issues with timing and fouling.
Known problems:
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Noisy timing chain on cold start (tensioner or stretched chain).
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Valve fouling (direct injection).
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Oil consumption in the early vintages.
How to check for problems before buying:
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Starting the engine when cold: any brief or repetitive metallic noise indicates chain wear.
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Check the invoices: the timing belt should have been replaced or checked around 100,000 km.
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Examine the spark plugs: fouling = poorly maintained engine.
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Check oil consumption (ask the seller how often to top up).
Recommendation :
Prefer the versions after 2014 , where the chain tensioner and engine management have been made more reliable.
GLA 250 (2.0 turbo – M270 engine)
Overall reliability:
This 2.0 turbo engine is robust and powerful. With proper maintenance, it can easily handle the miles.
Known problems:
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Pressure sensor (MAP) faulty.
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DCT7 gearbox: jerking when cold if oil change neglected.
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Risk of overheating if the coolant has not been replaced in time.
How to check for problems before buying:
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During testing, monitor gear changes: no jerking or slippage.
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Check the transmission fluid change invoices (every 60,000 km).
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Inspect the coolant: clean and pinkish, without deposits.
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Hot start: absence of whistling = healthy turbo.
Recommendation :
The GLA 250 is one of the best choices in the gasoline category. Avoid remapped or modified examples.
GLA 45 AMG (2.0 turbo – M133 engine)
Overall reliability:
This AMG-branded engine is a world benchmark: 360 to 381 hp, remarkable reliability for such performance, provided it is meticulously maintained.
Known problems:
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Significant oil consumption.
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Turbocharger under heavy load (risk of failure if used abruptly when cold).
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High maintenance costs.
How to check for problems before buying:
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Verify that maintenance has been performed exclusively at Mercedes or an AMG specialist.
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Examine the engine oil invoices (0W40 or 5W40 AMG).
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Cold start: no whistling or knocking noises.
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Look for traces of reprogramming (to be avoided).
Recommendation :
A properly maintained GLA 45 AMG remains a passionate, reliable and high-performing choice.
Reliability of diesel engines
GLA 180 CDI / GLA 200 CDI (1.5 dCi – Renault K9K engine)
Overall reliability:
This Renault-sourced engine is appealing due to its fuel efficiency, but its durability remains limited.
Known problems:
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Turbocharger is fragile (frequent breakage without rigorous maintenance).
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DPF and EGR valve quickly become clogged in city driving.
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Fuel quality sensitive injectors.
How to check for problems before buying:
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Cold start: monitor for smoke (black or blue = injection problem).
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Check if the turbocharger or EGR valve has been replaced.
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Examine the maintenance invoices (oil changes every 15,000 km max).
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Listen to the idle: an irregular clicking sound indicates a worn injector.
Recommendation :
An economical but fragile engine: not recommended for high-mileage drivers or long-term use.
GLA 200 CDI / 220 CDI / 220d (2.1 diesel – OM651 engine)
Overall reliability:
The 2.1 CDI engine is a pure Mercedes engine, renowned for its robustness and longevity.
Known problems:
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Distribution chain that can lengthen over time.
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Minor oil leaks at the cylinder head cover.
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EGR valve fouling.
How to check for problems before buying:
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Cold start: no metallic noise (otherwise the timing belt needs checking).
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Check for frequent oil changes (every 15,000 km).
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During testing, observe the power increase: regular and without jerks.
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Ask if the timing belt has already been replaced after 200,000 km.
Recommendation :
This is the most reliable diesel engine in the GLA X156 . The 220d remains the best compromise for those who want a durable and fuel-efficient SUV.
Electronic components and equipment
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DCT7 gearbox : very reliable if the oil is changed every 60,000 km.
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COMAND / Audio 20 system : software bugs, fixed by updates.
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Rearview camera : connectors sensitive to humidity.
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Parking sensors and proximity radar : occasional malfunctions.
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Air conditioning : compressor sometimes fails around 100,000 km.
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Start/Stop : auxiliary battery often the cause of malfunctions.
Verdict: Which version of the Mercedes GLA X156 should you choose?
To be preferred
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GLA 200 petrol (after 2014) : reliable engine and reasonable maintenance.
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GLA 250 petrol : efficient and durable, a good compromise.
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GLA 220 CDI / 220d : the diesel to recommend, reliable and torquey.
Avoid
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GLA 180 CDI (1.5 dCi Renault) : too fragile for intensive use.
Pre-purchase advice
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Demand a complete maintenance log and regular oil change invoices .
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Start the engine from cold to listen to the timing.
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Test the automatic gearbox when warm: the gears should shift smoothly.
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Check the camera, GPS and parking sensors .
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Opt for a model from after 2015 , which is better insulated and more reliable.
FAQ – Used Mercedes GLA X156
Is the Mercedes GLA X156 reliable?
Yes, particularly in its 2.0 petrol (GLA 250) and 2.1 diesel (GLA 220d) versions.
Which petrol engines should be avoided?
The 1.6 turbo models before 2014, due to the fragile timing system.
Which diesel engine is the most reliable?
The 2.1 CDI, a proven Mercedes engine.
Is the automatic transmission in the GLA reliable?
Yes, provided that you respect the oil change interval of every 60,000 km.
In summary
The Mercedes GLA X156 combines elegance, comfort and efficiency, while remaining a reliable vehicle when properly maintained.
The GLA 250 petrol and GLA 220d versions are the safest and most durable.
Before buying, a cold engine test and a maintenance check will prevent any unpleasant surprises.
Would you like me to now make the full version for the A-Class W176 (2012–2018) with the same format and the "how to check before buying" section integrated engine by engine?
