2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA200
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA200 is a compact SUV that combines the practicality of a hatchback with the style and sophistication expected from the Mercedes-Benz brand. The GLA200 is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing around 154 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available included the GLA250 with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. Both were typically paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. People often praise the GLA for its fuel efficiency, stylish design, and comfortable ride. However, some criticisms include its relatively small cargo space and the sometimes-hesitant nature of the dual-clutch transmission.
Engine
1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, leading to oil consumption and potential damage if not addressed. Common leak areas include the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking seals or gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of turbocharger failure or reduced performance. This may manifest as a loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, or an engine check light.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause of the turbocharger issue and replacement of the turbocharger if necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ for turbocharger replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic
- Hesitation and Jerky Shifts
- Description/Symptoms: The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is known for sometimes exhibiting hesitation when accelerating from a stop or during low-speed maneuvers. It can also produce jerky or abrupt shifts, especially in lower gears.
- Solution: Some owners have reported improvements after a transmission control module (TCM) software update or transmission adaptation reset performed by a Mercedes-Benz dealership. In more severe cases, clutch replacement or mechatronic unit repair may be needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for software updates or adaptation resets. Clutch replacement or mechatronic unit repair could be $2000 - $5000+.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after it has been sitting for a few days. This is due to some electrical components that may draw too much power when the vehicle is turned off.
- Solution: Diagnostic testing to isolate the parasitic drain. Repairing or replacing the faulty component causing the drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the source of the drain.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as the oxygen sensors or mass airflow sensor, may fail prematurely, leading to engine performance issues, error messages, and illumination of the check engine light.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including sticking, failing to open or close properly, or producing unusual noises. The sunroof motor or tracks may be faulty.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or entire sunroof assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the damage and parts required.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA200 can present owners with a range of issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems can lead to expensive repairs. The dual-clutch transmission can also exhibit some hesitant or jerky behaviour that owners may find concerning. Electrical issues such as battery drain and sensor malfunctions are also common. Sunroof malfunctions also need to be fixed. While some issues are minor, others can be quite costly to repair, so buyers should be aware of these potential problems.