EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
19 March 2025 Table of content
The 4MATIC all-wheel drive models such as the GLA 250 4MATIC or 220 CDI 4MATIC show typical differential problems at higher mileages. Symptoms include rattling noises when cornering, vibrations in the vehicle floor and uneven tire wear. Studies show that around 18% of affected vehicles require differential repairs between 80,000 and 120,000 km. The causes are often insufficient lubrication or defective ball bearings.
Professional maintenance is crucial for the reliability of the all-wheel drive system. The complex Mercedes GLA 4MATIC differentials require an oil change every 60,000 km with specific SAE 75W-85-GL5 oil. At the first sign of noise, an immediate inspection is recommended, as worn bearings can completely destroy the differential within 5,000-10,000 km. Regular checks prevent expensive consequential damage.
In the current H247 series, owners are complaining about sudden failures of the reversing camera. The problem usually occurs after 2-3 years or 25,000-40,000 km and manifests itself as a black screen or error messages such as "Rear view camera not available". The causes are often corroded plugs (especially at the trunk passage) or software conflicts after updates.
A systematic check is essential for troubleshooting. The sensitive Mercedes GLA camera modules require diagnostics via XENTRY with a focus on error codes such as B11DF29 (power supply) or B148B29 (CAN communication). In 70% of cases, it is sufficient to recalibrate the software or replace the 20-pin connector. As a preventive measure, the wiring should be checked for breaks every 20,000 km.
Models with an electric tailgate (standard equipment from GLA 250 e) often develop closing faults after 50,000 km. Typical symptoms include the closing process breaking off, beeps or error messages in the instrument cluster. Measurements show that 23% of defects are due to blocked guide rails or worn compression springs. In hybrid models, voltage fluctuations in the 48V battery can also cause the problem.
-50%
RIDEX Tyre pressure sensor (TPMS)
with valves
Article number: 2232W0084
compared to
RRP
£ 43,80
£ 21,77
Price per item
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BREMBO Brake disc
295x28mm, 5, perforated/vented
Article number: 09.B436.51
£ 41,27
Price per item
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
MOBIL Engine oil
0W-40, 4l
Article number: 153687
£ 50,98
£ 12,75 for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
330 mm, Flat wiper blade
Article number: 3 397 016 507
£ 10,67
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Bulb
12V 10W
Article number: 1 987 301 014
£ 1,93
Price per set of 2 pieces
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
An expert inspection is required to identify the cause. The precise Mercedes GLA tailgate actuators require regular cleaning of the rails and lubrication with silicone grease. In the case of error codes such as B167A87 (motor current exceeded), the drive motor usually needs to be replaced. An annual check of the Mercedes GLA tailgate lock prevents 80% of failures.
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission in the GLA 180 and GLA 200 models tends to jerky gear changes after 60,000 km, especially when shifting up from 2nd to 3rd gear. Technical analyses identify worn clutch plates (thickness less than 1.8 mm) as the cause in 34% of cases. In vehicles before 2018, software errors also occur that require an update.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the service life of the Mercedes GLA transmission. The sophisticated Mercedes GLA 7G-DCT control units require an adaptation reset via STAR diagnostics every 40,000 km. The oil change interval is 60,000 km with special DCTF oil. Immediate diagnosis is recommended at the first signs of jerking, as worn clutch components can completely block the transmission within 3,000-5,000 km.
The 2.1-liter diesel in the GLA 220 CDI 4MATIC shows frequent engine management faults from 100,000 km. Typical symptoms are a sudden drop in performance, increased consumption and black smoke. Error codes such as P0087 indicate problems with the high-pressure fuel pump control unit, which fails in 15% of vehicles before 2017. Measurements show pressure drops below 1,300 bar.
A systematic check is essential for diagnosis. The powerful 220 CDI engines require the Mercedes GLA fuel filter to be changed and the common rail lines to be inspected every 30,000 km. In the event of pressure losses, the high-pressure pump must be tested using an M14x1.5 test adapter (pressure measuring range 0-2,500 bar). Preventive maintenance reduces the risk of failure by 40%.
Brake problems were frequently reported, particularly in 2015, 2017 and 2018. These can lead to safety risks if they are not rectified in time. Symptoms include a soft brake pedal or uneven braking distance.
Regular maintenance is essential to detect these problems early. Mercedes GLA brakes require regular checks and, if necessary, replacement of defective components to ensure optimum safety. An expert inspection can help to identify and rectify such problems before they lead to major damage.
BOSCH Water Pump, parking heater
12V, without holder
Article number: 0 392 023 004
£ 53,49
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: MN7501-10
More
£ 30,93
£ 3,09 for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-28%
Article number: 15F7E5
compared to
RRP
£ 49,15
£ 34,99
£ 8,75 for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: A000989940213ALEE
More
£ 93,93
£ 18,79 for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: EK720
£ 120,46
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Based on user reports and workshop expertise, these problems also occur:
| Strengths | Weak points |
|---|---|
| Innovative MBUX infotainment | 4MATIC differential wear |
| Good road holding | Electronic tailgate malfunctions |
| Economical hybrid variants (250 e) | Susceptible reversing camera electronics |
| High-quality interior | Shifting problems 7G-DCT transmission |
| Good crash safety | AdBlue system problems with diesel models |
| Long service intervals | Expensive spare car parts costs for 4MATIC components |
The Mercedes GLA impresses with its modern design and technology, but requires consistent maintenance. Critical components such as the 4MATIC system or the electronics of the H247 series show weaknesses from higher mileages. However, preventive checks of the differentials, gearboxes and control units can avoid many problems. Hybrid and diesel owners should pay particular attention to battery management and exhaust aftertreatment.
MANNOL Engine oil
5W-30, 5l, Part Synthetic Oil
OPEL GM Engine oil
10W-40, 5l, Part Synthetic Oil
MANNOL Engine oil
5W-30, 20l
MOBIL Engine oil
5W-30, 5l
MANNOL Engine oil
5W-30, 4l
BOSCH Tyre pressure sensor (TPMS)
OPEL GM Engine oil
5W-30, 1l, Synthetic Oil
MOBIL Engine oil
5W-40, 5l
Mercedes-Benz Engine oil
5W-30, 1l
SWAG Antifreeze
G11-VW TL 774 C, 5l, Concentrate