Mercedes-Benz GLA 250
Powerful two-litre turbo from the new compact platform. 7G-DCT or 8G-DCT standard. Strong everyday engine with few known weaknesses.
GLA 250 4MATIC — Best GLA Package
165 kW M260 and all-wheel drive: this is the most convincing GLA without an AMG badge. Quick, precise and very dynamic for an SUV.
Engine Weaknesses 5
Known production deficiency: exhaust valve seat inserts and valve guides wear prematurely, leading to leaking combustion chambers. Mercedes extended warranty to 15 years / 241,000 km for model years 2019–2022.
Symptoms: Rough engine running, misfires (faults P0300–P0304), check engine light, power loss, vibration
On the M260 timing chain and tensioner can wear prematurely, especially with long oil change intervals. Affected vehicles show rattling on cold start.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling after cold start, check engine light, camshaft position fault codes
The wastegate actuator on the M260 can open prematurely from spring wear, leading to underboost. Diagnosis possible by pressure-testing the actuator.
Symptoms: Power deficiency under load, P0299 fault code, whistling on acceleration
On the M260 coolant lines and the thermostat housing cover can develop leaks. Mercedes carried out a service campaign (1204P59A93).
Symptoms: Dropping coolant level, coolant smell in engine bay, temperature rise, coolant level fault message
Direct injection without port injection causes carbon deposits on intake valves. Regular walnut blasting every 60,000–80,000 km necessary.
Symptoms: Power drop at part throttle, rough idle, slight hesitation on acceleration
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
The 8-speed DCT in the GLA H247 occasionally shows jerky gear changes and delayed response when pulling away, particularly on cold starts in the GLA 180 and GLA 200. Problems increase from 50,000–100,000 km.
The reversing camera on the GLA H247 fails from around 30,000 km due to software errors or defective cable connections. Image appears with a delay, flickers or stays black.
On GLA H247 with power tailgate, sensors or actuators fail from around 50,000 km. Tailgate no longer opens or closes automatically.
Rear camera failures reported after 2–3 years or 25,000–40,000 km. Cause is often software errors or faulty cable connections.
GLA H247 with power tailgate shows sensor or drive motor failures from approx. 50,000 km. The tailgate can then no longer be opened or closed electrically.
In the GLA H247 the MBUX system occasionally restarts twice at the start of a journey. Additionally the brake assist and high-beam assist can deactivate themselves.
Like the predecessor X156, H247 owners report annoying wind noise at motorway speeds. Seals at the A-pillar or doors are usually the cause.
Reports & Tests
3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2020–2025). Most reported: Brakes (2), Powertrain (2), Hydraulic (1).