IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2013–2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2013–2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

7G-DCT Gearbox Judder

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The dual-clutch automatic can feel rough or hesitant at parking speeds if clutch wear or calibration issues are developing.

Most affected: CLA 180, CLA 200, CLA 220 d

Estimated cost: £500–£1,800Affects: 2013–2019Often appears around: 35k-90k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Shudder pulling away
  • •Delay selecting reverse
  • •Snatchy low-speed shifts

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive it in traffic
  • ✓Test repeated reverse and hill-start manoeuvres
  • ✓Check for gearbox software or clutch work

Front Suspension Arm and Top-mount Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Big wheels and rough roads wear bushes and mounts, leaving a crashy ride and knocking noises.

Most affected: AMG Line, Sport, CLA 45

Estimated cost: £250–£700Affects: 2013–2019Often appears around: 40k-90k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Front-end knocking
  • •Uneven tyre wear
  • •Steering feels unsettled on B-roads

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive over potholes with the windows down
  • ✓Inspect front tyres for inner-edge wear
  • ✓Check MOT history for repeated suspension advisories

Infotainment Screen and Trim Faults

MinorInterior & Trim

Dash-top screens, controller inputs and interior trim can creak or glitch, especially on higher-mileage cars.

Most affected: Sport, AMG Line, Premium

Estimated cost: £100–£500Affects: 2013–2019Often appears around: Age-related rather than mileage-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Screen freezes
  • •Rattly dashboard trim
  • •Bluetooth or media control faults

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test phone, nav and media functions
  • ✓Listen for trim noises on rough roads
  • ✓Check that the screen powers up immediately

Buying Tips for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117)

  • ✓Check the 7G-DCT gearbox from cold and in stop-start traffic because hesitation and clutch shunt are common complaints.
  • ✓Inspect the low-profile tyres and front suspension carefully; CLA buyers often choose big wheels that punish UK roads.
  • ✓Make sure the frameless doors, window seals and interior trim all feel solid because cosmetic fixes can be costly on a premium small car.

Browse 2013–2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2013–2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117) vehicles.

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Other Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117) Year Periods

2013–2019

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