What 33 owners told NHTSA about the 2017 Mercedes-benz GLA

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, several unknown warning lights illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the warning lights turned off one after the other and the instrument cluster independently powered off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,669.

NHTSA ODI 11750673

Tire size 235/40 R20. Both front tires extremely worn in an uneven way with 1 having metal showing. Discout Tire in Lafayette, IN inpected and stated, "Lucky to be alive given how dangerous it is to drive on tires with metal exposed." Ordered new tires. Wouldn't even let us leave the parking lot due to safety. Used spare tire we carry to get home. Michelin denied the warranty claim due to improper servicing. No warning alerts. Vehicle was recently serviced by Mercedes of Lafayette on 3-34-26. Collected payment and handed my wife the key without volunteering ANY issue of ANY kind. Wife questioned if they even check the warning alert about brakes. Stated brake pads were in the yellow. Riding in the vehicle several days later, I noticed a loud road noise. Could not initially detect any obvious damage like a nail. Sound persisted. Stopped again. Turned steering wheel to expose the inner part of the tires. Zero tread and sharp metal exposed. Immediately took to Discount Tire. Confirmed OBVIOUS alignment issue causing uneven wear. Shocked Mercedes didn't fix the issue, and didn't alert us about the dangerous situation. Midas fixed alignment $122. Dealer & MB USA hq were notified. Neither made ANY effort to make things right in over 1mon. Dealer violated Indiana Code 9-19-18-3. Maker not doing proper quality control checks. Filing small claims court case about this issue as well.

NHTSA ODI 11738687

Tire size is 235/40 R20. Both front tires were extremely worn in an uneven way with 1 having metal showing. Discount Tire inspected the tires and stated that we were, "Lucky to be alive given how dangerous it is to drive on tires worn so badly with metal exposed." Discount Tire in Lafayette, IN inspected the tires. We ordered new tires that would take at least a day to be shipped. Wouldn't even let us leave their parking lot with the car in the condition it was in due to safety concerns. Luckily, we carry a spare, and were able to use that to get home. Michelin reviewed the warranty claim submitted by Discount Tire, and denied the claim due to improper servicing. No warning alerts. The main issue is that the vehicle was recently serviced by the Mercedes dealer in Lafayette, IN on 3-24-26. They collected the payment and handed my wife the key. They did not volunteer ANY issue of ANY kind. She questioned if they even checked the warning alert about the brakes. They stated that the brake pads were in the yellow, and needed to eventually be changed, but it could wait. Several days later, I was riding in the vehicle and noticed a loud road noise. Could not initially detect any damage to the outer/visible areas of the tires such as a nail. But the sound persisted. When we stopped again, I turned the steering wheel to expose the inner part of the tires. There was zero tread on the inside of the driver front tire with sharp metal exposes. Immediately took the car to Discount Tire. They confirmed it was an OBVIOUS alignment issue causing the uneven wear. Shocked Mercedes didn't fix the problem. Should have never given us the key back due to the high level of danger. Midas fixed the alignment $120. Both the dealer and MB USA hq were notified. Neither made any effort to make things right in over a month. Dealer clearly violated Indiana Code 9-19-18-3. The maker is not doing the proper quality control checks. Filing a small claims court case as well.

NHTSA ODI 11737726

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated that the warning light that the driver’s side air bag required service was illuminated. The contact stated that the warning light was constantly illuminated. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics, and the contact was informed that there might be a recall associated with the VIN. The contact stated that one of the independent mechanics retrieved a DTC that the "Squib to the Driver's Side Air Bag had an Open Circuit" and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called a local dealer and was advised that there was a recall for the year, make, and model vehicle; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online related to the failure of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V627000 (Air Bags). The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

NHTSA ODI 11684815

1. *Component Failure*: The sunroof/moonroof has stopped functioning correctly due to broken plastic rail guides/sliders, causing issues with opening and closing. Additionally, there's a potential risk of the sunroof detaching from the vehicle due to faulty bonding between the sunroof glass panel and the sliding roof frame. 2. *Safety Risk*: The safety risk is significant, as a detached sunroof can pose a hazard to other road users if it separates from the vehicle while driving at high speeds. This issue can lead to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. 3. *Problem Confirmation*: Yes, the problem has been confirmed by an Authorized Mercedes dealer, who has inspected the vehicle and acknowledged the issue. 4. *Inspection*: The vehicle has been inspected by the Authorized Mercedes Dealer. Given the recent recall notices from Mercedes-Benz regarding sunroof issues, it's possible that my vehicle might be affected by a similar problem. 5. *Warning Signs*: There were no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms before the failure, indicating a mechanical issue or part/component failure.

NHTSA ODI 11683685

To Whom It May Concern at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), I am submitting this complaint regarding the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vehicles equipped with the M274 engine, which have been unfairly excluded from recent recall campaigns affecting this engine family. The same engine (M274) in other models — including the C-Class (C300), E-Class, and GLC-Class from the same model years — has been recalled due to serious issues affecting engine reliability and safety. The specific issue I (and many other GLA owners) have encountered is the activation of the Check Engine Light, accompanied by diagnostic trouble code P052E71, which refers to a malfunction in the crankcase ventilation valve. This is a well-documented failure associated with the M274 engine and has been a primary reason for recalls in other Mercedes-Benz models. The malfunction leads to engine performance problems, potential stalling, increased emissions, and poses long-term mechanical risks if not promptly addressed. My Mercedes-Benz GLA, which shares the exact engine platform (M274) and falls within the same production period as the affected C-, E-, and GLC-Class models, is experiencing this identical issue. Yet, Mercedes-Benz has excluded the GLA model from the recall, despite no technical justification for this omission. This selective treatment is concerning, especially given the safety and environmental implications of the defect. By failing to include the GLA-Class in the recall, Mercedes-Benz is leaving affected owners to bear the cost of repairs for what is clearly a manufacturer defect — one they have already acknowledged in other platforms. I urge NHTSA to: Investigate the exclusion of GLA-Class vehicles from the M274 engine-related recall; Require Mercedes-Benz to expand the recall to include all models sharing this engine, especially those exhibiting the P052E71 crankcase ventilation valve failure; Ensure affected GLA owners receive the same safety protections and

NHTSA ODI 11675140

Stearing wheel began to make a clicking sound and would hardly turn. The Front Left Malfunction Service required light came on and when I took it to the dealership they informed me that the clock spring and airbag are broken and need to be replaced. He stated the vehicale is drivable but the airbag does not work. In 2017/2018 there was a recall for this exact issue and it shows my car was impacted and the recall repair was completed but that was prior to me purchasing the vehicle. Because the recall has been closed they will not honor repairing it and the vehicle now does not have a airbag that works properly.

NHTSA ODI 11643708

Check engine light received a diagnosis from Mercedes dealership that the crankcase ventilator line is malfunctioning and it’s a very common issue with this model. The transmission stalls during driving, the gears do not jump properly and the car cannot reverse, extremely dangerous at intersections and on the highway. Car needs to be turned off, cooled and restarted. This issue first appeared within a month of owning the vehicle from a certified Mercedes dealership. Refused to help during COVID, and by the time they were taking appointments again (two to three months after warranty expiration), warranty expired, would not honor and refusing to offer any help currently, expensive repair.

NHTSA ODI 11634299

LIGHTS ALL CAME ON AND SAID YOUR CAR WILL NOT GO INTO REVERSE

NHTSA ODI 11610503

A few times a week I will go to start my car and the smell of gas is too much to bear inside the vehicle! You can smell it for hours and is hard to drive with the windows up!

NHTSA ODI 11573829

I have a 2017 GLA-250 with 90k miles and check engine light is on. My mechanic told me it was engine code P052E-71 crankcase ventilation valve and was a very known problem with 4 cylinder turbo engine and mercedes benz has extended emissions warranty for this issue. Called Mercedes dealership and they told me my model was NOT covered. Only models 2015-2020 C/E/CLC/SLC/SLK. What a bunch of crap! All these models have the same engine. Cost of repair $2,300. I will never buy another Mercedes again. Company doesn't stand by their product when they know they have a known problem. My model should be covered. This is an emissions problem that they should recall for all models with 4 cylinder turbo engine

NHTSA ODI 11573413

Smelling gas in the inside of vehicle when starting the engine. The smell of gas while driving dizzy and headache have drive with windows down until smell is no longer in the inside of vehicle. Took vehicle in and was charged $1500 no smell for about a week then called to let them know issue is still there took car back and was told the couldn’t smell anything. Started February 2023 as of today one year later still have the gas smell in vehicle repair shop is just taking my money and want me to keep bring in vehicle but issues still exist.

NHTSA ODI 11573477

Car smells strongly of gasoline.

NHTSA ODI 11563803

car engine turned off by itself in the traffic. It has happened a few times when I was waiting at the traffic light or waiting in lane to make turn. The engine suddenly turned off completely and I was caught in the traffic.

NHTSA ODI 11549737

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the sunroof button was depressed, but the sunroof failed to close as intended. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 64,000.

NHTSA ODI 11545468

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the computer software needed to be updated. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer again and the contact was informed that the instrument cluster needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 74,000.

NHTSA ODI 11544751

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The sunroof/moonroof stopped functioning correctly. The plastic rail guides/sliders broke and the sunroof stopped closing and opening correctly. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The sunroof is not properly attached to the broken parts and could be a hazard if it separates from the roof while driving at highway speed. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? yes, the problem is confirmed by the Authorized Mercedes dealer. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? It was inspected by the Authorized Mercedes Dealer. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No warnings, it's a mechanical issue and a failure of the part/component

NHTSA ODI 11541996

When turning, I hear a thumping, grinding or chatter noise from the rear differential and the car slows. Mechanic changed the differential oil and found metal shavings/particals. Noise was not there for about 80 miles but has returned. I have to get a new right differential. I checked on the forums and this seems to be a common problem, one owner has had to replace his differential 4 times.

NHTSA ODI 11535960

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact then stated that the horn and the speedometer failed to operate. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the steering column was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number; however, the contact was still awaiting a call back. The failure mileage was 69,605. The contact stated that they took the vehicle to two dealers and eventually paid out of pocket for the repairs. Unlike other vehicles with the same defects, the contact's vehicle is not a part of the recall.

NHTSA ODI 11496732

On a few occasions, the car shifted into neutral on its own after being in the drive gear. This is quite dangerous and unsafe. There are no warning lights or indications. I noticed this problem a few months ago and it has happened a handful of times. I have don’t extensive research on similar problems and have only found forums with other gla drivers experiencing the same problems. There is no recall that I can find regarding this issue. The dealer is also unaware of this issue.

NHTSA ODI 11486245

The command screen has completely went out, similar to the same active recall on newer models.

NHTSA ODI 11474119

The sunroof doesn't close. Wind and rain is getting into the car. I took the car to the dealer this morning. Problem was verified. There were no warning lamps or messages. I understand there are numerous problems with this sunroof.

NHTSA ODI 11469228

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

NHTSA ODI 11437902

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V058000 (COMMUNICATION, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. MERCEDES-BENZ OF DES MOINES (9993 HICKMAN RD, URBANDALE, IA 50322) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL BUT INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO ABOUT THE OVER THE AIR UPDATE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND FIRST INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE OVER THE AIR UPDATE WOULD BE DONE OVER THE WEEKEND IF THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED ON FOR 10-20 MINUTES. SOMETIME LATER, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO GUARANTEE AS TO WHEN THE OVER THE AIR UPDATE WOULD BE PERFORMED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

NHTSA ODI 11415168

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA250. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL CRACKING SOUND AND FELT WATER DRIPPING ON TOP OF HER. THE CONTACT THEN REALIZED THAT WATER HAD BEEN LEAKING IN THE VEHICLE BETWEEN THE WINDSHIELD AND A CRACK THAT HAD FORMED ON THE SUN ROOF. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF HOUSTON GREENWAY (3900 SOUTHWEST FWY, HOUSTON, TX 77027) WHERE SHE WAS INFORMED THAT AN OBJECT HAD MADE IMPACT WITH THE SUN ROOF CAUSING THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT DISPUTED THE CLAIM. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,544.

NHTSA ODI 11361174