Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 problems and owner complaints

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

18 owner complaints analyzed

9 distinct recall campaigns

6,600 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2021 model year. Data updated: . 2 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Engine is the most frequently named component, appearing in 5 of 18 complaints (27.8%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Electrical and battery issues527.8%
Engine operation15.6%
Braking behavior15.6%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Engine
5
Electrical System
4
Unknown Or Other
4
Fuel/Propulsion System
3
Back Over Prevention
2
Power Train
2
Tires
2
Engine And Engine Cooling
1
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Engine5
Electrical System4
Unknown Or Other4
Fuel/Propulsion System3
Back Over Prevention2
Power Train2
Tires2
Engine And Engine Cooling1

Engine: 5; Electrical System: 4; Unknown Or Other: 4; Fuel/Propulsion System: 3; Back Over Prevention: 2; Power Train: 2; Tires: 2; Engine And Engine Cooling: 1

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
2
25,000 to 49,999
0
50,000 to 74,999
0
75,000 to 99,999
0
100,000 to 149,999
0
150,000 and above
0
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,0002
25,000 to 49,9990
50,000 to 74,9990
75,000 to 99,9990
100,000 to 149,9990
150,000 and above0

Under 25,000: 2; 25,000 to 49,999: 0; 50,000 to 74,999: 0; 75,000 to 99,999: 0; 100,000 to 149,999: 0; 150,000 and above: 0

Under 25,000 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (2). 16 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2021
3
2022
4
2023
3
2024
2
2025
2
2026
4
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
20213
20224
20233
20242
20252
20264

2021: 3; 2022: 4; 2023: 3; 2024: 2; 2025: 2; 2026: 4

Pattern summary

Engine leads the component reports. Electrical and battery issues appears in 5 complaint narratives. Engine operation appears in 1 complaint narratives. Braking behavior appears in 1 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Complaint evidence

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 11431590 · 2021-09-03 (September 3, 2021)

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was not displaying on the display screen. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer could not activate the display screen and informed the contact that they were waiting for parts to arrive to perform the repair. The vehicle w…

Owner-reported narrative. 2,200 miles reported. Look up ODI 11431590 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11491304 · 2022-10-28 (October 28, 2022)

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11491304 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11661372 · 2025-05-16 (May 16, 2025)

I am reporting a potential safety and mechanical defect involving the cylinder head in the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. Many owners, including myself, have experienced premature cylinder head failure, often without warning, leading to loss of power, engine misfires, rough idling, and in some cases, sudden engine shutdown while driving. This issue appears to be widespread among GLA models equipped with the M260/M270 engine, often occurring well before 100,000 miles. It raises serious concerns about the design, durability, and safety of the engine’s t…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11661372 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11432715 · 2021-09-13 (September 13, 2021)

Car's brake system slammed on in light traffic with no nearby obstacles. Clear night, light traffic, road dry, moderate temperature. If there had been more traffic, or if the road had been slick, high probability of risk. Dealer has been notified, will not be able to pick up vehicle for a day or two. I did not see any warning lights, heard no warning sounds.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11432715 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

18 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

11.1%Usable mileage2 / 18 records
100.0%Valid incident date18 / 18 records
100.0%Valid filing date18 / 18 records
100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates18 / 18 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component2014201520162017201820192020202120222023202420252026
Engine
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

2728.7%
ODI 10811450

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES BENZ GLA250. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER AND REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE CHECK ENGINE WARING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT GO INTO REVERSE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK, IT JERKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AGAIN WHERE THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Look up ODI 10811450 at NHTSA ↗

1530.6%
ODI 10861236 · 3,800 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30-54 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD VIBRATE AND MADE A RUMBLING NOISE UNDER THE HOOD. ONCE THE VEHICLE REACHED 1,400 RPMS/55 MPH, THE FAILURE SEIZED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIBRATION COULD BE FELT THROUGH THE STEERING WHEEL AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE DEALER COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,800. ....UPDATED 07/05/16 *BF

Look up ODI 10861236 at NHTSA ↗

930.0%
ODI 10983230

TL* THE CONTACT WAS LOANED A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED A LOANER VEHICLE WHILE HIS VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED AT THE DEALER. AFTER PARKING THE VEHICLE IN A GARAGE, THE CONTACT BEGAN TO SMELL A BURNING ODOR. THE CONTACT THEN NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE GARAGE AND ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE IN ORDER TO MOVE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START DUE TO THE BATTERY HAVING A SHORT. THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE CONTACT'S GRANDDAUGHTER HAD TO BE HOSPITALIZED DUE TO SMOKE INHALATION. THE LOCAL FIRE …

Look up ODI 10983230 at NHTSA ↗

1020.4%
ODI 11040373 · 900 mi

THE PROBLEM IS WHEN TRAVELLING AT LOW SPEEDS OR STOP THE CAR TO HALT ABLE TO HEAR A NOISE FROM THE REAR END. LIKE A METAL HITTING ANOTHER METAL. IT HAS BEEN ONLY 1 MONTH I BOUGHT THE CAR AND 1300MILES ON IT. THE CAR IS MAKING REALLY LOUD NOISE WHEN STOPPED AND HEAR IT PROPERLY. IT IS MAKING CLING CLING NOISE. I REALLY WORRIED ABOUT THIS ISSUE. I ALMOST OBSERVE EVERYDAY.

Look up ODI 11040373 at NHTSA ↗

310.3%
ODI 11429422

The vehicle with only 29,775 miles on it, and I bought it new, made a knocking noise in the brakes and the brake pedal jumped up and down at first stop sign when I left my house. I reapplied the brake to see if it would work. It did. I turned onto the highway and within two blocks the vehicle shifted itself into N, a message on dashboard said pull over, contact service immediately. I was able to coast then turn onto a side street. Upon stopping the vehicle, another warning came on the dashboard: Reversing Not Possible Service Required. This veh…

Look up ODI 11429422 at NHTSA ↗

222.2%
ODI 11575791

1. POWER STEERING: STEERING WHEEL WENT OUT ON A FREEWAY ALMOST CAUSING MASSIVE COLLISION (this has happened twice) 2. Car Jerkiness: reported this to MBZ of San Rafael for 2 years (went into shop 10+ times for same issue and not resolved. It lunges forward while driving. This also is a safety issue almost causing me to hit a pedestrian 3. Vehicle Not opening 4. Vehicle Overheating 5. Faulty Wiring 6. Screen Black out

Look up ODI 11575791 at NHTSA ↗

527.8%
ODI 11544109

I purchased this car approx 3 months after real issues began. My car would have issues idling where it would sometimes turn off at stop lights and require multiple reignition attempts before proceeding. This would also happen when the auto-start feature (anti-idle/gas saving) was engaged (which is the default in the system) and this posed major safety concerns. The unstable idling of the car would result in an initial acceleration after being stopped, shortly followed by the engine dying. There were multiple times I was at an intersection yi…

Look up ODI 11544109 at NHTSA ↗

250.0%
ODI 11532812

I find the design of the 2022 GLA Mercedes Benz to be flawed. Just the mere filling gas into the tank can cause the Charcoal Canister to go bad; causing the malfunction light to activate; unknown to consumers. A safety flap should be required over the gas hole to prevent any overflow. Although, the emission control system is covered under warranty - the dealership is trying to pass this on the consumers. If there is a conscious effort to prevent carbon poison of the environment this should be mandatory and not something that is allowed and pi…

Look up ODI 11532812 at NHTSA ↗

337.5%
ODI 11710522

In reference to Safety Recall N252494000 L87 Engine Loss of Propulsion... vehicle passed the recall test. But 2500 miles after the test the engine failed. Per dealership, awaiting new engine.

Look up ODI 11710522 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 11762814

I am writing to formally submit an urgent safety escalation and Lemon Law notice regarding my 2026 GLA 250, purchased brand new on February 26, 2026, as a replacement vehicle following the severe operational disruptions associated with the EQB 300 recall. As a parent of a family member with a disability, reliable and secure transportation is an absolute necessity. I selected the Mercedes-Benz brand based on its reputation for engineering integrity and safety. Regrettably, the vehicle delivered has proven to be mechanically hazardous and operati…

Look up ODI 11762814 at NHTSA ↗

Unknown Or Other
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1617.0%
ODI 10746776 · 9,400 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS ACTIVATED NOTIFYING THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS CARBON MONOXIDE PRESENT IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT BECAME ILL AND HAD TROUBLE BREATHING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,400.

Look up ODI 10746776 at NHTSA ↗

1734.7%
ODI 10954279 · 12,000 mi

DRIVING 70 MPH ON HIGHWAY, 12K MILES ON MY 2016 CAR AND THE SUNROOF EXPLODED OUT THE TOP OF MY CAR. SOUNDED LIKE A SHOTGUN BLAST, SHREDS OF GLASS EVERYWHERE. NO WARNINGS, SOUNDS, ANY IDEA ABOUT TO OCCUR.

Look up ODI 10954279 at NHTSA ↗

516.7%
ODI 11096415

RECEIVED LETTER NOV.17 FOR RECALL REF. TOO...."MAY HAVE INSUFFICIENT ELECTRICAL GROUNDING. WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE HOLD UP IS ON GETTING THIS TAKEN CARE OF.? ITS BEEN OVER 6 MOS. THIS IS SECOND RECALL ON MY GLA250...PLEASE TAKE CARE OF THIS EXPEDITIOUSLY.. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR WAITING THIS LONG FOR REPAIR ON MY VEHICLE. GET OFF YOUR BACK SIDE AND GET THIS DONE.

Look up ODI 11096415 at NHTSA ↗

1020.4%
ODI 11040373 · 900 mi

THE PROBLEM IS WHEN TRAVELLING AT LOW SPEEDS OR STOP THE CAR TO HALT ABLE TO HEAR A NOISE FROM THE REAR END. LIKE A METAL HITTING ANOTHER METAL. IT HAS BEEN ONLY 1 MONTH I BOUGHT THE CAR AND 1300MILES ON IT. THE CAR IS MAKING REALLY LOUD NOISE WHEN STOPPED AND HEAR IT PROPERLY. IT IS MAKING CLING CLING NOISE. I REALLY WORRIED ABOUT THIS ISSUE. I ALMOST OBSERVE EVERYDAY.

Look up ODI 11040373 at NHTSA ↗

620.7%
ODI 11448141

While driving at various speeds, my car suddenly and without warning goes into neutral. I have to them switch it into drive. It happens several times during a drive and at varying times and varying speeds.

Look up ODI 11448141 at NHTSA ↗

333.3%
ODI 11488566

Transmission problem. On several occasions while driving, the car has lurched to a stop because gear changed suddenly from Drive to Park. At other times, the engine revvs and slows when it suddenly switches from Drive to "M1." After stopping, it goes back to "D" on its own. Serious safety issue, as I can get rear ended in traffic, or cause an accident for stopping without notice. I have one photo of the sudden transmission switch to M1 (today). Car has been towed to Mercedes service department; no other inspection yet. No warning lamps. Only …

Look up ODI 11488566 at NHTSA ↗

422.2%
ODI 11418252

Please fix issue associated with my vin so I can Turo it

Look up ODI 11418252 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

225.0%
ODI 11703541

[XXX] we were driving to San Francisco. Traffic was very light because of the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday. We were about 1000 feet from the toll plaza, driving at 50-55 MPH. There was a car behind us about six car lengths back. There were no cars in front of us between us and the Toll Plaza. Nothing at all. There were no cars in lanes to our left nor right in our vicinity. Suddenly our car made a loud GROWLING noise and the car jammed on the brakes! My wife screamed but we did not come to a complete stop. A bright Red Triangle appeared in…

Look up ODI 11703541 at NHTSA ↗

150.0%
ODI 11622527

Car has been sent to dealership service center multiple times since we bought it in June 2024 for a sound created by rear camera. Dealership acknowledged sound made by camera. Last thing shop did was place a “foam padding” to help reduce sound. But it did not help with the noise. They claim that it is “usual” across all GLA250. It is consistently making a noise that it distracts the driver. I tried to reach out to dealersip Sales dept and they could not help us with the car and suggested we talk to corporate but they also just referred us back…

Look up ODI 11622527 at NHTSA ↗

133.3%
ODI 11704558

The back up camera makes a loud very distinct noise and attempts to cut on when not necessary. Pops up on screen going forward in addition to backwards like it is supposed to do. comes on when braking, turning, going over bumps, all reasons when not necessary and it is very distracting to the driver.

Look up ODI 11704558 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1111.7%
ODI 10870565 · 9,000 mi

VEHICLE ON SIDE STREET NEAR HOME...SUDDENLY CHUGS, AND SLOWS TO A CRAWL WILL NOT ACCELERATE...ALL LIGHTS COME ON DASHBOARD..ALSO ENGINE LIGHT... TOWED TO DEALERSHIP IN DAYTONA BEACH, FL...AFTER 3 WKS SERVICE DEPT CALLED TO SAY IT WAS FIXED... WIRING HARNESS AND A ME CONTROL UNIT REPLACED. 3 WKS LATER ON 5/10/16 SAME INCIDENT HAPPENED...LUCKILY IT WAS ON SIDE STREET SO WAS NO ACCIDENT OR DAMAGE....THIS APPEARS TO BE A RECURRING PROBLEM W/MERCEDES BENZ VEHICLES.... SERVICE DEPT CLAIMS FOUND FIX ONLINE..? RESET SOME KIND OF "PINS".....THIS CAR I…

Look up ODI 10870565 at NHTSA ↗

510.2%
ODI 11060972 · 6,800 mi

I HAVE A INFANT ON BOARD WITH ME, AND TRAVELS WITH ME, FROM FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA TO HAMPTON, VIRGINIA.WE CLOUD HAVE BEEN KILLED ON THE WAY HOME TO THANKS GIVING DINNER LAST MONTHIN HAMPTON. SO, MY GRANDDAUGHTER AND I LEFT LEFT FREDERICKSBURG, VI ALL OF A SUDDEN MY MERCEDES GLA 250 2016 SLAMMED IN PARK ON I-95 SOUTH, I THOUGH IT WAS THE AUTOMATIC SENSOR, THE GREEN A BUTTON. I WAS ALMOST STRUCK IN THE BACK. I THEN STARTED VEHICLE UP AND MOVED TO THE RIGHT IN THE SLOWER LANES. THEN THE AUTOMATIC SENSOR CAME ON " YOU KNOW THE GREEN A BUTTON,I T…

Look up ODI 11060972 at NHTSA ↗

826.7%
ODI 10983230

TL* THE CONTACT WAS LOANED A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED A LOANER VEHICLE WHILE HIS VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED AT THE DEALER. AFTER PARKING THE VEHICLE IN A GARAGE, THE CONTACT BEGAN TO SMELL A BURNING ODOR. THE CONTACT THEN NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE GARAGE AND ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE IN ORDER TO MOVE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START DUE TO THE BATTERY HAVING A SHORT. THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE CONTACT'S GRANDDAUGHTER HAD TO BE HOSPITALIZED DUE TO SMOKE INHALATION. THE LOCAL FIRE …

Look up ODI 10983230 at NHTSA ↗

1020.4%
ODI 11152194 · 11,100 mi

AT 1:10 AM THE 2018 MERCEDES BENZ GLA SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE. THE CAR WAS PARKED IN MY GARAGE AND HAD NOT BEEN USED IN OVER 6 HOURS. THE CAR HAD 11,000 MILES ON IT. IT WAS LAST SERVICED BY MB OF COCONUT CREEK ONE MONTH EARLIER FOR THE ROUTINE 10K SERVICE. THE ONLY PROBLEM WE HAD WITH THE CAR WAS ONCE THE AIR-CONDITIONING FAILED TO WORK. I BELIEVE THE MB DEALERSHIP SAID IT WAS A FAULTY RELAY. THE CAR WAS ONLY SERVICED BY MB AT THE DEALERSHIP WHERE WE BOUGHT THE CAR. THE ENSUING FIRE CONSUMED MY GARAGE AND DESTROYED MY HOUSE. EVENTUAL…

Look up ODI 11152194 at NHTSA ↗

26.9%
ODI 11676757

The ABS Sensor light, engine light, anti skid light and 4 matic malfunction, transmission malfunction all lit up on my dashboard on Tuesday July 22, 2025. The stearing would lock up and the brakes would not break it also shifted gears into neutral. The dashboard finally told me in bold red letters (transmission malfunction STOP). It would do this then all the lights would go away. I thought it may have just been the battery since I hardly drive the car. The shop cleared out all the malfunctions and re drove it and they said it appeared fin…

Look up ODI 11676757 at NHTSA ↗

222.2%
ODI 11302809 · 200 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START FROM THE CELL PHONE. THE CONTACT TRIED A COUPLE OF TIMES AND STARTED THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING AND MADE A STOP IN TRAFFIC, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE DASHBOARD ILLUMINATED ALL KINDS OF WARNING LIGHTS AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT MOVE. THE SOS SYSTEM ALERTED THE MANUFACTURER WHO SENT A TOW TRUCK. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE MERCEDES-BENZ OF ATLANTIC CITY DEALER, LOCATED AT 6623 BLACK HORSE PIKE, EGG HARBOR TOWN…

Look up ODI 11302809 at NHTSA ↗

422.2%
ODI 11431590 · 2,200 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was not displaying on the display screen. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer could not activate the display screen and informed the contact that they were waiting for parts to arrive to perform the repair. The vehicle w…

Look up ODI 11431590 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

112.5%
ODI 11746252

On 2 separate occasions (August 2025 & February 2026), the car has had a "transmission malfunction" light come on while driving on the highway around 65-70 mph. The light comes on and immediately loses ability to accelerate. Both times the car was towed to Greensboro Mercedes. The first time they did not do anything because they didn't know what to do and it had "reset" itself. The second time they discovered that it needed a software update. Mercedes does NOT have the update that is needed. We tried going through the lemon law process but Merc…

Look up ODI 11746252 at NHTSA ↗

150.0%
ODI 11630121

The engine light comes on constantly. The 1st incident happened 05/2024. I have reported this to the dealership and was told it was ok to drive. Then it kept happening, on 11/05/24 I took the vehicle in for repair. It was returned 11/08/24 and ilthe engine light turned on again. I was told to take the car to the dealership on 11/13/24 and the vehicle has been at the dealership until now 12/11/24. The vehicle stalled on an occasion while in motion. I had to press the start button to continue driving the car. Another occasion the dashboard turned…

Look up ODI 11630121 at NHTSA ↗

133.3%
ODI 11722491

I pulled into a parking space, cars on each side of me and car in front of me had pulled through the space to park. As I eased into the space, foot on brake, the car violently shook and surged forward, smashing into the rear of the car in front of me. The car continued to shake then moved to the left and crashed into the car in front of me to the left. The car that I hit in the rear was pushed into a car passing by them. So 4 cars involved due to this major malfunction. When the car stopped, I was able to put it in reverse and back up. I could …

Look up ODI 11722491 at NHTSA ↗

150.0%
ODI 11762814

I am writing to formally submit an urgent safety escalation and Lemon Law notice regarding my 2026 GLA 250, purchased brand new on February 26, 2026, as a replacement vehicle following the severe operational disruptions associated with the EQB 300 recall. As a parent of a family member with a disability, reliable and secure transportation is an absolute necessity. I selected the Mercedes-Benz brand based on its reputation for engineering integrity and safety. Regrettably, the vehicle delivered has proven to be mechanically hazardous and operati…

Look up ODI 11762814 at NHTSA ↗

Power Train
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1414.9%
ODI 10811450

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES BENZ GLA250. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER AND REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE CHECK ENGINE WARING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT GO INTO REVERSE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK, IT JERKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AGAIN WHERE THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Look up ODI 10811450 at NHTSA ↗

48.2%
ODI 11494864 · 101,000 mi

The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated while at a traffic light the vehicle stalled and shifted into neutral. The vehicle failed to shift into gear. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V627000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted but the contact was unable to schedule an appointment. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the…

Look up ODI 11494864 at NHTSA ↗

310.0%
ODI 11150118 · 13,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING ON FREEWAY AROUND 70 MPH, THE IP DISPLAY JUST SUDDENLY DISAPPEAR FOR 1 SPLIT SECOND, THEN THE CAR SHIFTED ITSELF INTO NEUTRAL AND DISPLAYED THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE: "TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTION STOP", THEN I COASTED TO THE RIGHT SHOULDER AREA OF THE FREEWAY, THEN I TURNED OFF THE ENGINE, WAITED FOR 1-2 MINUTES, THEN RESTARTED THE ENGINE AGAIN WITHOUT ANY ISSUE. IT HAPPENED 2 DAYS IN THE ROW-ONE IS YESTERDAY AFTERNOON; THE OTHER ONE THIS MORNING.

Look up ODI 11150118 at NHTSA ↗

612.2%
ODI 11475911 · 45,000 mi

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated while his wife was driving and the vehicle was stationary at a traffic light, the vehicle shifted independently into neutral(N). The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver restarted the vehicle and was able to continue driving to her destination. The contact towed the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the battery replaced. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience failure. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact stat…

Look up ODI 11475911 at NHTSA ↗

1034.5%
ODI 11429422

The vehicle with only 29,775 miles on it, and I bought it new, made a knocking noise in the brakes and the brake pedal jumped up and down at first stop sign when I left my house. I reapplied the brake to see if it would work. It did. I turned onto the highway and within two blocks the vehicle shifted itself into N, a message on dashboard said pull over, contact service immediately. I was able to coast then turn onto a side street. Upon stopping the vehicle, another warning came on the dashboard: Reversing Not Possible Service Required. This veh…

Look up ODI 11429422 at NHTSA ↗

222.2%
ODI 11302809 · 200 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START FROM THE CELL PHONE. THE CONTACT TRIED A COUPLE OF TIMES AND STARTED THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING AND MADE A STOP IN TRAFFIC, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE DASHBOARD ILLUMINATED ALL KINDS OF WARNING LIGHTS AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT MOVE. THE SOS SYSTEM ALERTED THE MANUFACTURER WHO SENT A TOW TRUCK. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE MERCEDES-BENZ OF ATLANTIC CITY DEALER, LOCATED AT 6623 BLACK HORSE PIKE, EGG HARBOR TOWN…

Look up ODI 11302809 at NHTSA ↗

211.1%
ODI 11464869

I was parked in a lot and turned the ignition on and selected "DRIVE" but when I started to pull away the vehicle went backwards instead of forwards (as though "REVERSE" had been selected). I switched back to PARK, then selected DRIVE again and the vehicle once again went backwards. I then turned the engine off altogether and restarted it and this seemed to clear up the problem as now the vehicle went forwards when in DRIVE. No damage, or injuries, but of course very concerning from a safety point of view which is why I am reporting this. Merce…

Look up ODI 11464869 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

112.5%
ODI 11718290

unkown available for inspection cylinder misfiring ,stalling loss of power while driving, jerking during accelerations rough unstable idle intense vehicle vibrations yes took in for service A and D no other lights appeared beside service A and D

Look up ODI 11718290 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

266.7%
ODI 11722491

I pulled into a parking space, cars on each side of me and car in front of me had pulled through the space to park. As I eased into the space, foot on brake, the car violently shook and surged forward, smashing into the rear of the car in front of me. The car continued to shake then moved to the left and crashed into the car in front of me to the left. The car that I hit in the rear was pushed into a car passing by them. So 4 cars involved due to this major malfunction. When the car stopped, I was able to put it in reverse and back up. I could …

Look up ODI 11722491 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Air Bags
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1111.7%
ODI 10874019 · 8,000 mi

I HAD TWO MVA ACCIDENTS (FEBRUARY 1 AND MARCH 16, 2016) IN THIS VEHICLE WITHIN~ 3 MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP. THE ACCIDENTS OCCURRED WHEN I SLOWED DOWN THIS VEHICLE UNDER 10-15MPH. UPON PURCHASE, I NOTICED UNLIKE OTHER CARS I HAVE OWNED, AT A STOP THIS MBGLA 250 VEHICLE ENGINE WOULD CUT OFF COMPLETELY AND START BACK WHEN THE GAS PEDAL WAS PRESSED. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP THIS WAS NORMAL. HOWEVER, I NOTICED WHEN I RECEIVED THE CAR BACK FROM PARK PLACE BODYWERKS IN MARCH, 2016, (AFTER ~ 5 WEEK REPAIR PERIOD FROM THE FIRST ACCIDENT THAT OCCURRED …

Look up ODI 10874019 at NHTSA ↗

816.3%
ODI 11044216

"TAKATA RECALL" WHAT PURPOSE DOES THIS RECALL SERVE IF THE MANUFACTURER STILL DOES NOT HAVE A "REMEDY" AVAILABLE? I HAVE 3 BENZ'S, ALL AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL AND FOR OVER 1 YEAR THE DEALER CANNOT REPAIR DUE TO "NO REMEDY YET AVAIL". SO IN THE MEANTIME, WE SHOULD DRIVE AND PRAY THAT SOMETHING TRAGIC DOES NOT OCCUR?

Look up ODI 11044216 at NHTSA ↗

413.3%
ODI 11053466

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V627000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. MERCEDES-BENZ OF MARIN (540 FRANCISCO BLVD W, SAN RAFAEL, CA 9490[phone removed]) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL C…

Look up ODI 11053466 at NHTSA ↗

612.2%
ODI 11083398

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V627000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER (LOEBER MOTORS, 4255 W TOUHY AVE, LINCOLNWOOD, IL 60712) AND WAS ADVISED THAT THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VI…

Look up ODI 11083398 at NHTSA ↗

413.8%
ODI 11348431 · 11,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT WAS LEASING THE 2019 MERCEDES BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED SHE ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT TO PARK HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO REVERSE AS SHE CRASHED INTO AN UNKNOWN OBJECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE THEN WENT INTO DRIVE AT CRASHED INTO A TRUCK. THE SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED BUT NOT THE AIR BAG IN THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BRUISING TO THE CHEST THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED FIRST AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED …

Look up ODI 11348431 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

112.5%
ODI 11612953

Incident on [XXX] 1450 GLA 250 approx 6 months old ? Est car was doing 40 mph impacted back of car my GLA 250 (other car was 1955 chevy - driver stated to police and on report he had a brake failure - no brakes ) as she was at the stop light it pushed her car about 4-5 feet almost hitting car in front of her which was also stopped at light - Police and ambulance was on site since it was 3 min from my house and car still on which dashboard was lighted with the airbag failures •The GLA 250 car was stopped at stop light and not moving when it w…

Look up ODI 11612953 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Fuel/Propulsion System
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1212.8%
ODI 11010985 · 37,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ABNORMAL FUEL ODOR ENTERING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER MERCEDES-BENZ OF MANCHESTER (LOCATED AT 875 GOLD STREET, MANCHESTER, NH 03103 [phone removed]) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINE LEAK AND THE INTAKE LINE, SEALS, RINGS, AND FILTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,0…

Look up ODI 11010985 at NHTSA ↗

510.2%
ODI 11373880 · 43,313 mi

I WAS DRIVING MY CAR IN MOTION AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING, THE CAR DECELERATED AND SUBSEQUENTLY STALLED WHILE I WAS TRAVELING ON I-85 IN GAFFNEY SOUTH CAROLINA. IT WENT FROM 50 TO 0 LEAVING ME STRANDED ON THE HIGHWAY. IT WAS TOWED TO MERCEDES BENZ OF SOUTH CHARLOTTE WHERE I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE

Look up ODI 11373880 at NHTSA ↗

310.0%
ODI 11563803

Car smells strongly of gasoline.

Look up ODI 11563803 at NHTSA ↗

510.2%
ODI 11510211

Strong fuel smell when starting under below freezing conditions.

Look up ODI 11510211 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

111.1%
ODI 11664899

Problem has been confirmed by dealer that the rear differential assembly needs to be replaced. This is a very common defect with gla250’s. It been recalled in the past and Mercedes Benz is putting many drivers at risk. The estimated to replace is $6100! Mercedes Benz corporation refuses to replace the part only offering $1300. That is submission that they are aware something is wrong. I don’t feel safe driving a 2020 car. There have been many class action suits but there needs to be another investigation and recall which MB knows there i…

Look up ODI 11664899 at NHTSA ↗

316.7%
ODI 11544109

I purchased this car approx 3 months after real issues began. My car would have issues idling where it would sometimes turn off at stop lights and require multiple reignition attempts before proceeding. This would also happen when the auto-start feature (anti-idle/gas saving) was engaged (which is the default in the system) and this posed major safety concerns. The unstable idling of the car would result in an initial acceleration after being stopped, shortly followed by the engine dying. There were multiple times I was at an intersection yi…

Look up ODI 11544109 at NHTSA ↗

125.0%
ODI 11532812

I find the design of the 2022 GLA Mercedes Benz to be flawed. Just the mere filling gas into the tank can cause the Charcoal Canister to go bad; causing the malfunction light to activate; unknown to consumers. A safety flap should be required over the gas hole to prevent any overflow. Although, the emission control system is covered under warranty - the dealership is trying to pass this on the consumers. If there is a conscious effort to prevent carbon poison of the environment this should be mandatory and not something that is allowed and pi…

Look up ODI 11532812 at NHTSA ↗

225.0%
ODI 11746252

On 2 separate occasions (August 2025 & February 2026), the car has had a "transmission malfunction" light come on while driving on the highway around 65-70 mph. The light comes on and immediately loses ability to accelerate. Both times the car was towed to Greensboro Mercedes. The first time they did not do anything because they didn't know what to do and it had "reset" itself. The second time they discovered that it needed a software update. Mercedes does NOT have the update that is needed. We tried going through the lemon law process but Merc…

Look up ODI 11746252 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 11762814

I am writing to formally submit an urgent safety escalation and Lemon Law notice regarding my 2026 GLA 250, purchased brand new on February 26, 2026, as a replacement vehicle following the severe operational disruptions associated with the EQB 300 recall. As a parent of a family member with a disability, reliable and secure transportation is an absolute necessity. I selected the Mercedes-Benz brand based on its reputation for engineering integrity and safety. Regrettably, the vehicle delivered has proven to be mechanically hazardous and operati…

Look up ODI 11762814 at NHTSA ↗

Structure:Body
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

99.6%
ODI 10780803 · 68 mi

THE DOOR HANDLES BECOME IN STUCK POSITION AND DOES NOT CLOSE FULLY AND DOES NOT LATCH TO A LOCKED POSITION. ALSO AFTER REMOVING THE DRIVER SIDE CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 STICKER INTERACTS WITH THE WINDOW CLOSING MECHANISM.

Look up ODI 10780803 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

48.2%
ODI 11155898 · 2,256 mi

YOU WOULD ALWAYS NEED TO THINK AND SEARCH WHERE YOU ARE GOING TO INVEST YOUR MONEY REGARDLESS OF CAR BRAND NAME... YES, NON OF THE (8) AIRBAGS EQUIPPED IN MY BRAND NEW 2018 CAR, AS CLAIMED BY MERCEDES BENZ (DISTRIBUTED IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS WITHIN THE CAR), ALONG WITH THE MODERN SOPHISTICATED SAFETY TECHNOLOGY AS CLAIMED, HAS BEEN ACTIVATED/DEPLOYED DURING THAT CAR ACCIDENT TO PREVENT SEVERE PAIN FOR MY WIFE WHO WAS RUSHED THAT DAY TO A HOSPITAL FOR INTENSIVE MEDICAL CARE. AFTER THEIR ENGINEERING CREW INVESTIGATIONS, MB USA COMPANY PROVIDES RIDI…

Look up ODI 11155898 at NHTSA ↗

26.9%
ODI 11476212

I was involved in an auto accident on 3/1/22 I no longer have confidence or feel safe driving the 2019 Mercedes GLA250 after having a minor" accident and repairs totaling $15,008.53. The steering wheel locked and the left tire was knocked out of place. According to Mercedes, repairs were required to the suspension system, new struts, new knuckles, steering gear. I am terrified to continue driving the GLA250 model and am anxious and fearful off having another accident which could very well result in a fatality. The first estimate for repairs to…

Look up ODI 11476212 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

15.6%
ODI 11743847

Cowl vent grille openings allowed normal environmental debris to accumulate, plug drainage and divert water onto electrical components and potentially result in a fire if not addressed. Some of the debris passes through into the hvac system and cannot be cleaned without dealer removal/repair of the hvac motor, which costs the customer more than $500 in repairs and disincentivizes mitigation. Furthermore, Mercedes is aware of the problem, has not issued a customer satisfaction recall, and instead, is charging customers more than $1,000 to ins…

Look up ODI 11743847 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Service Brakes
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

44.3%
ODI 10787316 · 1,450 mi

THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE GAS PEDAL ARE TOO CLOSE TOGETHER. I AM CONSTANTLY FEELING THE SLIGHT TOUCH OF THE BRAKE PEDAL WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS. I HAVE HAD MULTIPLE CARS AND SUV'S IN THE PAST AND I CANNOT EVERY RECALL TOUCHING THE BRAKE WHEN GASSING. I AM VERY CONSCIOUS OF THE PROXIMITY OF THE 2 PEDALS AND TRY TO NOT TOUCH THE BRAKE. IT STILL HAPPENS FROM TIME TO TIME.

Look up ODI 10787316 at NHTSA ↗

24.1%
ODI 11003181 · 3,065 mi

THE REAR AUTOMATIC PARKING BRAKES SOMETIMES DO NOT RELEASE AFTER DRIVING IN THE RAIN OR THROUGH PUDDLES. THIS HAPPENS AFTER THE CAR IS PARKED FOR A FEW HOURS. SO FAR, THE BRAKES HAVE BROKEN FREE AFTER APPLYING AN EXTRA AMOUNT OF GAS. THEN, A LOUD BANG IS HEARD WHEN THE BRAKES LET GO. THIS CONCERNS ME BECAUSE WHAT IF THIS HAPPENS IN A TIGHT PARKING SPOT, WITH CARS IN FRONT AND IN BACK? WITH THE SUDDEN RELEASE OF THE BRAKES, THE CAR MAY LURCH INTO EITHER OF THE CARS. I HAVE COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER TWICE. THE FIRST TIME THEY COULDN'T FIND …

Look up ODI 11003181 at NHTSA ↗

13.3%
ODI 11437902

Car was driving two separate times and it turned on an auto magic braking system Or engine stopped on freeway

Look up ODI 11437902 at NHTSA ↗

12.0%
ODI 11506704

I was getting a warning sign on my screen in car. Is said safety problem. I tried to tell Mercedes’ but they did not want to see the car . They told me to go to the mechanic who did a small job fixing the car due from a small collision. I did take it back and mechanic said he didn’t touch that. When I was going through all of this I told Mercedes’ financial to hold on my account . I did not want to pay for an unsafe car. The financial dept. agreed and I asked them to note it that I called about this issue. Because of not paying they repossessed…

Look up ODI 11506704 at NHTSA ↗

26.9%
ODI 11348431 · 11,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT WAS LEASING THE 2019 MERCEDES BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED SHE ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT TO PARK HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO REVERSE AS SHE CRASHED INTO AN UNKNOWN OBJECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE THEN WENT INTO DRIVE AT CRASHED INTO A TRUCK. THE SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED BUT NOT THE AIR BAG IN THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BRUISING TO THE CHEST THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED FIRST AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED …

Look up ODI 11348431 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

15.6%
ODI 11432715

Car's brake system slammed on in light traffic with no nearby obstacles. Clear night, light traffic, road dry, moderate temperature. If there had been more traffic, or if the road had been slick, high probability of risk. Dealer has been notified, will not be able to pick up vehicle for a day or two. I did not see any warning lights, heard no warning sounds.

Look up ODI 11432715 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

112.5%
ODI 11703541

[XXX] we were driving to San Francisco. Traffic was very light because of the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday. We were about 1000 feet from the toll plaza, driving at 50-55 MPH. There was a car behind us about six car lengths back. There were no cars in front of us between us and the Toll Plaza. Nothing at all. There were no cars in lanes to our left nor right in our vicinity. Suddenly our car made a loud GROWLING noise and the car jammed on the brakes! My wife screamed but we did not come to a complete stop. A bright Red Triangle appeared in…

Look up ODI 11703541 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

133.3%
ODI 11722491

I pulled into a parking space, cars on each side of me and car in front of me had pulled through the space to park. As I eased into the space, foot on brake, the car violently shook and surged forward, smashing into the rear of the car in front of me. The car continued to shake then moved to the left and crashed into the car in front of me to the left. The car that I hit in the rear was pushed into a car passing by them. So 4 cars involved due to this major malfunction. When the car stopped, I was able to put it in reverse and back up. I could …

Look up ODI 11722491 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Electrical SystemToo few reports for a range2,200 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11431590 · 2,200 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was not displaying on the display screen. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer could not activate the display screen and informed the contact that they were waiting for parts to arrive to perform the repair. The vehicle w…

Look up ODI 11431590 at NHTSA ↗

Back Over PreventionToo few reports for a range2,200 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11431590 · 2,200 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was not displaying on the display screen. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer could not activate the display screen and informed the contact that they were waiting for parts to arrive to perform the repair. The vehicle w…

Look up ODI 11431590 at NHTSA ↗

TiresToo few reports for a range11,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11469173 · 11,000 mi

The contact called on behalf of his client who owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 equipped with Continual tires, Tire Line: Procontact GXSSR, Tire Size: 235/55r/18, and DOT 6y3lwxx43220. The contact stated while driving at 30 MPH on a local road and attempting to get into the right lane, the driver crashed into a pole where the vehicle came to a stop. The contact suffered injuries to the face from the air bag deploying and hurt her leg. No medical attention was needed. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an impound lo…

Look up ODI 11469173 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

26V481000 · 2026-07-241 reports2024-112026-10

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-121None
ODI 11632215

Twice now, my husband is putting groceries in the back of the vehicle and the top closes on him and this last time, hit him hard in the head. This is a safety issue, what can we do??

Look up ODI 11632215 at NHTSA ↗

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-051None
ODI 11661372

I am reporting a potential safety and mechanical defect involving the cylinder head in the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. Many owners, including myself, have experienced premature cylinder head failure, often without warning, leading to loss of power, engine misfires, rough idling, and in some cases, sudden engine shutdown while driving. This issue appears to be widespread among GLA models equipped with the M260/M270 engine, often occurring well before 100,000 miles. It raises serious concerns about the design, durability, and safety of the engine’s t…

Look up ODI 11661372 at NHTSA ↗

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-081None
ODI 11677929

When coming to a full stop at a red light (or any need to idle at a stop), the car frequently begins to hesitate as if it is about to cut off. I assume it has something to do with the ‘fuel saving feature’ which comes on in the form of a green symbol in the lower left of the odometer display (the engine is still running the AC) . When you start to drive again the car always jerks before moving , on at least 3 occasions it has actually cut off completely and must be restarted (everything goes off) - it is big problem, especially in heavy traff…

Look up ODI 11677929 at NHTSA ↗

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-011None
ODI 11713295

The Gas Door did not open in order to pump gasoline. There is no mechanical device for the driver, passenger, owner of the vehicle to manually open the gas door from the inside. There was no electronic warning within the Mercedes Benz to alert driver about malfunction of gas door not working. Driver took vehicle to local Firestone mechanic who said the "gas door actuator" needed to be replaced. Accordingly, vehicle with the remaining gasoline was taken to local Mercedes Dealer who after the vehicle being looked at, "confirmed gas door to not op…

Look up ODI 11713295 at NHTSA ↗

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-061None
ODI 11743847

Cowl vent grille openings allowed normal environmental debris to accumulate, plug drainage and divert water onto electrical components and potentially result in a fire if not addressed. Some of the debris passes through into the hvac system and cannot be cleaned without dealer removal/repair of the hvac motor, which costs the customer more than $500 in repairs and disincentivizes mitigation. Furthermore, Mercedes is aware of the problem, has not issued a customer satisfaction recall, and instead, is charging customers more than $1,000 to ins…

Look up ODI 11743847 at NHTSA ↗

2026-07026V481000

No examples available for this selection.

2026-081None
ODI 11758450

See attached document for complaint

Look up ODI 11758450 at NHTSA ↗

2026-091None
ODI 11766452

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V481000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted by the manufacturer. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Look up ODI 11766452 at NHTSA ↗

2026-10 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 24 reports

2022: 3 complaints · 2023: 4 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2022133
2023124
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
2022400
2023800

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentEngineElectrical SystemUnknown Or OtherFuel/Propulsion SystemBack Over PreventionPower TrainTiresEngine And Engine Cooling
Engine—
1
ODI 11743847

Cowl vent grille openings allowed normal environmental debris to accumulate, plug drainage and divert water onto electrical components and potentially result in a fire if not addressed. Some of the debris passes through into the hvac system and cannot be cleaned without dealer removal/repair of the hvac motor, which costs the customer more than $500 in repairs and disincentivizes mitigation. Furthermore, Mercedes is aware of the problem, has not issued a customer satisfaction recall, and instead, is charging customers more than $1,000 to ins…

Look up ODI 11743847 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 11661372

I am reporting a potential safety and mechanical defect involving the cylinder head in the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. Many owners, including myself, have experienced premature cylinder head failure, often without warning, leading to loss of power, engine misfires, rough idling, and in some cases, sudden engine shutdown while driving. This issue appears to be widespread among GLA models equipped with the M260/M270 engine, often occurring well before 100,000 miles. It raises serious concerns about the design, durability, and safety of the engine’s t…

Look up ODI 11661372 at NHTSA ↗

2
ODI 11544109

I purchased this car approx 3 months after real issues began. My car would have issues idling where it would sometimes turn off at stop lights and require multiple reignition attempts before proceeding. This would also happen when the auto-start feature (anti-idle/gas saving) was engaged (which is the default in the system) and this posed major safety concerns. The unstable idling of the car would result in an initial acceleration after being stopped, shortly followed by the engine dying. There were multiple times I was at an intersection yi…

Look up ODI 11544109 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11677929

When coming to a full stop at a red light (or any need to idle at a stop), the car frequently begins to hesitate as if it is about to cut off. I assume it has something to do with the ‘fuel saving feature’ which comes on in the form of a green symbol in the lower left of the odometer display (the engine is still running the AC) . When you start to drive again the car always jerks before moving , on at least 3 occasions it has actually cut off completely and must be restarted (everything goes off) - it is big problem, especially in heavy traff…

Look up ODI 11677929 at NHTSA ↗

0000
Electrical System
1
ODI 11743847

Cowl vent grille openings allowed normal environmental debris to accumulate, plug drainage and divert water onto electrical components and potentially result in a fire if not addressed. Some of the debris passes through into the hvac system and cannot be cleaned without dealer removal/repair of the hvac motor, which costs the customer more than $500 in repairs and disincentivizes mitigation. Furthermore, Mercedes is aware of the problem, has not issued a customer satisfaction recall, and instead, is charging customers more than $1,000 to ins…

Look up ODI 11743847 at NHTSA ↗

—00
2
ODI 11431590 · 2,200 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was not displaying on the display screen. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer could not activate the display screen and informed the contact that they were waiting for parts to arrive to perform the repair. The vehicle w…

Look up ODI 11431590 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11491304

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Look up ODI 11491304 at NHTSA ↗

000
Unknown Or Other
1
ODI 11661372

I am reporting a potential safety and mechanical defect involving the cylinder head in the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. Many owners, including myself, have experienced premature cylinder head failure, often without warning, leading to loss of power, engine misfires, rough idling, and in some cases, sudden engine shutdown while driving. This issue appears to be widespread among GLA models equipped with the M260/M270 engine, often occurring well before 100,000 miles. It raises serious concerns about the design, durability, and safety of the engine’s t…

Look up ODI 11661372 at NHTSA ↗

0—
1
ODI 11713295

The Gas Door did not open in order to pump gasoline. There is no mechanical device for the driver, passenger, owner of the vehicle to manually open the gas door from the inside. There was no electronic warning within the Mercedes Benz to alert driver about malfunction of gas door not working. Driver took vehicle to local Firestone mechanic who said the "gas door actuator" needed to be replaced. Accordingly, vehicle with the remaining gasoline was taken to local Mercedes Dealer who after the vehicle being looked at, "confirmed gas door to not op…

Look up ODI 11713295 at NHTSA ↗

0000
Fuel/Propulsion System
2
ODI 11544109

I purchased this car approx 3 months after real issues began. My car would have issues idling where it would sometimes turn off at stop lights and require multiple reignition attempts before proceeding. This would also happen when the auto-start feature (anti-idle/gas saving) was engaged (which is the default in the system) and this posed major safety concerns. The unstable idling of the car would result in an initial acceleration after being stopped, shortly followed by the engine dying. There were multiple times I was at an intersection yi…

Look up ODI 11544109 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11677929

When coming to a full stop at a red light (or any need to idle at a stop), the car frequently begins to hesitate as if it is about to cut off. I assume it has something to do with the ‘fuel saving feature’ which comes on in the form of a green symbol in the lower left of the odometer display (the engine is still running the AC) . When you start to drive again the car always jerks before moving , on at least 3 occasions it has actually cut off completely and must be restarted (everything goes off) - it is big problem, especially in heavy traff…

Look up ODI 11677929 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 11713295

The Gas Door did not open in order to pump gasoline. There is no mechanical device for the driver, passenger, owner of the vehicle to manually open the gas door from the inside. There was no electronic warning within the Mercedes Benz to alert driver about malfunction of gas door not working. Driver took vehicle to local Firestone mechanic who said the "gas door actuator" needed to be replaced. Accordingly, vehicle with the remaining gasoline was taken to local Mercedes Dealer who after the vehicle being looked at, "confirmed gas door to not op…

Look up ODI 11713295 at NHTSA ↗

—0000
Back Over Prevention0
2
ODI 11431590 · 2,200 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was not displaying on the display screen. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer could not activate the display screen and informed the contact that they were waiting for parts to arrive to perform the repair. The vehicle w…

Look up ODI 11431590 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11491304

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Look up ODI 11491304 at NHTSA ↗

00—000
Power Train00000—0
1
ODI 11758450

See attached document for complaint

Look up ODI 11758450 at NHTSA ↗

Tires000000—0
Engine And Engine Cooling00000
1
ODI 11758450

See attached document for complaint

Look up ODI 11758450 at NHTSA ↗

0—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

3 patterns with matching reports.

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

3 mentions · 16.7% of complaints

Median mileage: 11,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 11432715

Car's brake system slammed on in light traffic with no nearby obstacles. Clear night, light traffic, road dry, moderate temperature. If there had been more traffic, or if the road had been slick, high probability of risk. Dealer has been notified, will not be able to pick up vehicle for a day or two. I did not see any warning lights, heard no warning sounds.

Look up ODI 11432715 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11469173 · 11,000 mi

The contact called on behalf of his client who owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 equipped with Continual tires, Tire Line: Procontact GXSSR, Tire Size: 235/55r/18, and DOT 6y3lwxx43220. The contact stated while driving at 30 MPH on a local road and attempting to get into the right lane, the driver crashed into a pole where the vehicle came to a stop. The contact suffered injuries to the face from the air bag deploying and hurt her leg. No medical attention was needed. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an impound lo…

Look up ODI 11469173 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11547873

Engine misfired in operation requiring an emergency stop while on a mountain road. Severe check engine light turned on (Mercedes has a two stage check engine light). Vehicle was parked for 20 minutes and battery was disconnected. This appeared to fix the issue. Vehicle was brought to dealer. Dealer stated the cylinder head for early 2021 GLA 250 engines had a casting flaw that result in hot gases escaping and damaging engine. Engine and turbo rebuilt under warranty at 17000 miles.

Look up ODI 11547873 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Hard or delayed shifting

1 mentions · 5.6% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 11677929

When coming to a full stop at a red light (or any need to idle at a stop), the car frequently begins to hesitate as if it is about to cut off. I assume it has something to do with the ‘fuel saving feature’ which comes on in the form of a green symbol in the lower left of the odometer display (the engine is still running the AC) . When you start to drive again the car always jerks before moving , on at least 3 occasions it has actually cut off completely and must be restarted (everything goes off) - it is big problem, especially in heavy traff…

Look up ODI 11677929 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b

Stalling or loss of power

1 mentions · 5.6% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 11661372

I am reporting a potential safety and mechanical defect involving the cylinder head in the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. Many owners, including myself, have experienced premature cylinder head failure, often without warning, leading to loss of power, engine misfires, rough idling, and in some cases, sudden engine shutdown while driving. This issue appears to be widespread among GLA models equipped with the M260/M270 engine, often occurring well before 100,000 miles. It raises serious concerns about the design, durability, and safety of the engine’s t…

Look up ODI 11661372 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b