Mercedes-Benz CLA 200
Modular four-cylinder turbo of the first compact platform generation. Known for timing chain stretch and thermostat issues. Adequate power up to 156 hp.
Estate with Flair
DCT and 115 kW in the Shooting Brake: stylish daily driving, adequately brisk, but not exciting.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The sealing ring on the camshaft adjuster solenoid fails. Oil creeps by capillary action through the wiring harness and destroys lambda sensors and the ECU. Repair €1,700–€4,000.
Symptoms: Lambda sensor fault codes, engine stumbling, CEL. In later stages multiple electrical faults simultaneously, ECU coated with oil
M270 engines with manufacturing date July–September 2015 have a defective weld seam on the camshaft lobe. Camshaft can break → engine damage. Recall with free replacement.
Symptoms: Sudden engine noise, power loss up to engine stall. Only vehicles with production date July–September 2015 affected
The electrically-controlled thermostat on the M270 fails frequently and is difficult to access at the rear of the engine. Replacement costs 800–1,300 EUR at Mercedes workshops.
Symptoms: Engine does not reach operating temperature of 80°C, coolant temperature fluctuates, fault code P0128
M270 camshaft adjusters wear from 100,000–130,000 km and generate rattling noises on cold start. Revised adjusters fitted from 2014 onward.
Symptoms: Brief rattling or clattering after cold start from engine bay, disappears after warm-up
The electronically controlled thermostat on the M270DE16 fails frequently and throws fault code P0128. Engine fails to reach operating temperature or overheats sporadically. Repair at Mercedes €800–€1,000.
Symptoms: Temperature gauge stays low or fluctuates, CEL, increased fuel consumption, fault code P0128
Direct injection without port injection causes carbon deposits on the M270 intake valves. Cleaning by walnut shell blasting required.
Symptoms: Hesitation at part throttle, rough idle, slight power loss, elevated fuel consumption
Ignition coils on the M270DE16 fail sporadically and cause misfires in individual cylinders. Engine runs roughly, CEL illuminates.
Symptoms: Stumbling and rough engine at low revs, CEL flashing or permanently lit, cylinder-specific misfire fault codes
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
Multiple recall actions on the CLA C117 concerned cracked fuel lines in the engine bay as well as brake booster deficiencies and faulty airbag cable routing. Affected vehicles should be checked for open recalls at the KBA.
The 7-speed dual clutch gearbox in the CLA C117 tends toward juddering gear changes, especially when pulling away and in traffic. Clutch packs wear prematurely with intensive urban use. Software updates help temporarily; at high mileages a gearbox oil change is needed.
Defective cable guides on door locks cause central locking to fail. Moisture ingress into the footwell trim puts additional strain on the electrics.
Water enters the footwells through sealing defects, which can lead to electrical damage and corrosion. Vehicles with panoramic roof are particularly affected.
According to ADAC breakdown statistics, the starter battery is the most common breakdown cause on the CLA C117. The high quiescent current draw from numerous control units drains the battery quickly during short-distance use or extended standing.
Despite its premium positioning, the CLA C117 showed sub-optimal panel gaps at door trim panels and self-releasing trim strips. Owners report squeaking and rattling noises from the interior that worsen with vehicle age.
CLA C117 owners report comparatively early brake disc wear on the front axle. Brake pads and discs often due from 40,000–50,000 km. Sporty driving style and AMG Line models more severely affected.