Mercedes-Benz GLA 180
Modular four-cylinder turbo of the first compact platform generation. Known for timing chain stretch and thermostat issues. Adequate power up to 156 hp.
GLA Entry Level
90 kW in the GLA X156 — the SUV weight slows the small engine noticeably. Fine in town, tight on the open road.
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 6
On GLA X156 build years 2016–2018 the eCall emergency system could malfunction when Mercedes me services were active in transport mode. Automatic and manual emergency calls were not transmitted correctly. Fixed via OTA software update.
MOT reports cite brake lines and parking brake as typical weak points on the GLA X156. Brake lines are prone to corrosion.
In cold weather the electric door mirrors on the GLA X156 often fail to fold in. The optional sunroof does not fully open or close at low temperatures. Cause is cold sensitivity of the drive motors and control units.
At motorway speeds above 120 km/h distinct wind noise is reported in the area of the door seals and bonnet. The bonnet vibrates measurably, indicating insufficient body sealing.
Many GLA X156 owners report annoying wind noise at higher speeds from around 120 km/h. The bonnet also vibrates at higher speed.
Owners report creaking and rattling noises from the interior. Seat belt guides and seats rattle frequently. Typical at higher mileages.
Reports & Tests
1 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2013–2020). Most reported: Lane Departure (1).