2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA250

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is a subcompact luxury SUV known for its sporty handling and upscale interior. It comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its fuel efficiency and stylish design, while others find the rear seat space and cargo capacity limited compared to competitors. Common criticisms also include a sometimes-harsh ride quality and complicated infotainment system.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M260)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may appear around the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing gasket can resolve the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on location and severity of leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may occur from hoses or the water pump. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and a sweet smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hose or the water pump is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the source of the leak and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (7G-DCT)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly at lower speeds. This can feel like a hesitation or a clunk when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Software updates or transmission fluid changes may improve the issue. In some cases, replacement of valve body components or the entire transmission may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping can cause the vehicle to lose power or rev excessively without accelerating properly.
  • Solution: Requires inspection and repair of the transmission, possibly involving replacing worn clutch packs or valve body components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with sensors related to systems like the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), parking sensors, or oxygen sensors. Symptoms include warning lights on the dashboard and potentially degraded performance.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, depending on the type and location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identifying and fixing the parasitic drain, possibly involving replacing a faulty module or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or updating the software may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacing the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $2,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, make unusual noises, or leak.
  • Solution: Lubricating the tracks, repairing or replacing the motor, or replacing the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 has some notable issues. Owners should pay close attention to the engine for oil and coolant leaks and the transmission for rough shifting. Electrical issues with sensors and the infotainment system are also common. Sunroofs may exhibit problems. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, like transmission repairs or complete replacements, can be quite costly. The severity of these issues varies, but potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase.