Our reliability guide for buying a used Mercedes CLA C117

Mercedes CLA C117 Reliability Guide: Models to Avoid and Models to Favor (2013–2019)

The Mercedes CLA C117 , produced between 2013 and 2019, is the 4-door coupe version of the A-Class W176.
With its spectacular lines, premium interior and modern engines, it has appealed to a wide audience in search of a high-end compact car with a strong style.

But beneath its attractive design, some versions hide mechanical or electronic weaknesses that are best known before purchase.
Here is our complete reliability guide for the Mercedes CLA C117 , to help you choose the most reliable version according to your needs.

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Reliability of petrol engines

CLA 180 / CLA 200 (1.6 turbo – M270 engine)

Overall reliability:
This engine, shared with the A-Class, offers good performance but suffers from some recurring defects on the early models.

Known problems:

• Fragile timing chain (metallic rattling on cold start).

• Intake valve fouling due to direct injection, especially in urban use.

• Oil consumption is sometimes excessive.

How to check before buying:

• Starting from cold: any metallic noise is suspicious.

• Check the invoices: the chain or tensioner must have been replaced after 100,000 km.

• Check for regular oil changes (every 15,000 km maximum).

• Examine the spark plugs: a black or oily color may indicate fouling or excessive oil consumption.

Recommendation :
Prefer models from after 2014 , whose distribution and engine management have been made more reliable.

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CLA 250 (2.0 turbo – M270 engine)

Overall reliability:
The 2.0 turbo engine is significantly more robust than the 1.6. It offers good performance while remaining reliable, provided that strict maintenance is carried out.

Known problems:

• Boost pressure sensor (MAP) sometimes fails.

• DCT7 dual-clutch gearbox: can generate jerking without regular oil changes.

• Risk of overheating if maintenance is neglected (coolant or oil).

How to check before buying:

• During testing, check the smoothness of gear changes (no jerking).

• Check the gearbox oil change invoices (every 60,000 km).

• Listen to the engine when warm: no excessive whistling from the turbo.

• Inspect the engine oil: it should not smell burnt or contain particles.

Recommendation :
A CLA 250 that has not been remapped and has been well maintained is a safe bet, combining enjoyment and longevity.

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CLA 45 AMG (2.0 turbo – M133 engine)

Overall reliability:
This AMG-branded engine is an engineering marvel. Its reliability is remarkable if maintenance is followed to the letter, but the costs are commensurate with its performance.

Known problems:

• Turbocharger under high stress, which can be damaged without sufficient cooling.

• Significant oil consumption.

• Risk of overheating if used intensively on the track.

How to check before buying:

• Verify that the service has been exclusively performed by Mercedes-AMG or a recognized specialist.

• Start from cold and let it run for 2 to 3 minutes before accelerating: any abnormal whistling noise is suspicious.

• Check the service booklet: 0W40 AMG engine oil required.

• Check that no reprogramming has been carried out.

Recommendation :
The M133 engine is reliable, but a cheaply maintained example will quickly become expensive.

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Reliability of diesel engines

CLA 180 CDI / CLA 200 CDI (1.5 dCi – Renault K9K engine)

Overall reliability:
This small diesel engine, of Renault origin, has helped to lower fuel consumption but is not the most robust in the range.

Known problems:

• The turbocharger is fragile, especially if oil changes have been spaced out.

• DPF and EGR valve are prone to rapid clogging in city driving.

• Fragile injectors.

How to check before buying:

• Cold start: any black or blue smoke is a sign of faulty injection.

• Check if the turbocharger has been replaced.

• Check that the DPF warning light is not illuminated.

• Require a complete history, ideally motorway use.

Recommendation :
An economical engine, but one to avoid for a long-term purchase.

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CLA 200 CDI / CLA 220 CDI / CLA 220d (2.1 diesel – OM651 engine)

Overall reliability:
Diesel is the preferred choice. This Mercedes engine is reliable, durable, and offers a good compromise between performance and fuel consumption.

Known problems:

• Noisy timing chain on some units.

• EGR valve and intake manifold fouling.

• Minor oil leaks (rocker cover).

How to check before buying:

• Cold start: absence of abnormal clicking = good sign.

• Check for the presence of Mercedes maintenance invoices (oil change every 15,000 km).

• During testing, no black smoke during acceleration = injectors OK.

• Ask if the timing chain has already been replaced after 200,000 km.

Recommendation :
The OM651 engine (A220 CDI/d) is the safest choice for high-mileage drivers.

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Electronic devices and equipment

• COMAND multimedia system / Audio 20 : some slowness, often corrected by update.

• ABS/ESP sensors : intermittent faults.

• Air conditioning : compressor sometimes fails after 100,000 km.

• DCT7 gearbox : oil change every 60,000 km is essential to avoid jerking.

• Reversing camera and radar : connectors sometimes oxidized.

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Verdict: Which Mercedes CLA C117 should you choose?

To be preferred

• CLA 200 petrol (1.6 T after 2014) : balanced, pleasant and reliable version.

• CLA 250 petrol (2.0 T) : robust and efficient engine.

• CLA 220 CDI / 220d (2.1 diesel) : reliable and durable, perfect for long journeys.

Avoid

• CLA 180 CDI (1.5 dCi Renault) : too fragile in the long term.

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Pre-purchase advice

• Demand a complete maintenance log and detailed invoices .

• Start the engine when cold to detect any suspicious noises (timing).

• Check the DCT7 gearbox : smooth gear changes.

• Test the on-board electronics: air conditioning, sensors, GPS, camera.

• Prefer a model from after 2015 , which is more reliable mechanically and electronically.

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