2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA180

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA180 is a subcompact luxury crossover known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. While it offers a premium feel, some owners have reported certain issues. The GLA180 is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing approximately 122 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. Other engine options for the 2017 GLA include the GLA 250 with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and the AMG GLA 45 with a more powerful version of the same 2.0-liter engine. Transmission options typically include a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Common likes include the car’s nimble handling and upscale interior, while dislikes often center around the somewhat cramped rear seats and limited cargo space.

Engine

1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (GLA180)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from various engine seals and gaskets. This can lead to low oil levels, potential engine damage, and visible oil spots under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Faulty Spark Plugs
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Hesitation and Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates when accelerating from a stop or during gear changes. It may also exhibit jerky or abrupt shifts.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Software Update) - $3,000+ (Transmission Rebuild)
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs high but the car doesn’t accelerate properly.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps. Reduced handling precision.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per corner

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car is left unused for a few days. This can cause starting problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and fixing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly shut-off accessories). Replacing the battery if it’s old or damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Oxygen Sensors, Crankshaft Position Sensor)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor engine performance, reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per sensor

Exterior

• Malfunctioning Door Locks
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks may fail to operate properly, either not locking/unlocking with the key fob or the interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door

Interior

• Malfunctioning Infotainment Screen
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen may freeze, glitch, or not power on.
  • Solution: Software update, screen replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, makes noise, or leaks.
  • Solution: Lubricating the tracks, replacing the sunroof motor, or repairing/replacing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA180 can experience a range of issues, from relatively minor problems like spark plug failure to more serious concerns such as transmission issues. Electrical problems and suspension wear are also fairly common. The severity of these issues varies, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific problem. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, considering a pre-purchase inspection.