Problems owners report
Complaints filed with NHTSA about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, by the system named in each complaint. One complaint can name several.
- Vehicle speed control2
- Unknown or other2
- Fuel/propulsion system2
- Engine1
- Suspension1
- Power train1
- Forward collision avoidance1
- Exterior lighting1
NHTSA ODI complaints (public domain) · updated 23 Oct 2026 · 1 injuries and 0 deaths reported
Compared with other years
NHTSA ODI complaints by model year
Recalls
26V481000 · Latches/locks/linkages24 Jul 2026 · 310,667 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CLA, 2019-2022 A-Class, 2022-2023 C-Class, 2024 CLE, 2020-2026 GLA/GLB, and 2023-2024 GLC vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific model information. The micro-switch in the driver's door lock may corrode and fail to detect an open door, preventing the electronic parking brake or "Auto-Park" feature from engaging automatically. This may result in a vehicle rollaway.
22V365000 · Communication20 May 2022 · 242,722 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
21V354000 · Back over prevention14 May 2021 · 343,191 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
21V058000 · Electrical system5 Feb 2021 · 1,292,258 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
21V034000 · Child seat29 Jan 2021 · 231 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 A220, A35 AMG, and CLA250 vehicles. The child seat anchoring system (ISOFIX) may be missing the right-side anchoring bar from the ISOFIX bracket on the right-rear seat.
Whether a recall was fixed on a particular car is known only to the manufacturer: check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
NHTSA recalls · summaries in NHTSA's own words
Service bulletins
What Mercedes-Benz told its dealers about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250: known faults, fixes and updates.
| Bulletin | Summary |
|---|---|
| 11010970 | Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain MY21-25 C-Class, CLA, EQB, EQE, EQS, G-Class, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, GT, S-Class, and SL (206, 118, 243, 294, 296, 465, 247, 254, 167, 192, 223, and 232 platform) vehicles, the MBUX multimedia system does not correspond with the latest series production configuration. The MBUX multimedia system control unit will receive an OTA software update. MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. Remote software updates are automatically downloaded and installed in the customers vehicle free of charge and do n |
| 11010907 | Complaint The flap of the reversing camera opens and closes by itself during forward travel. This happens several times during the trip. The customer notices the sound of opening and closing. No camera image is displayed in the head unit. The reversing camera or the 360 system functions normally when activated manually or by engaging drive range "R". This behavior occurs again during each driving cycle. Cause This is not a malfunction, but an intended system behavior: Calibration of the reversing camera is in progress. For this, the cover on the camera is opened for max. 5 cumulative minutes i |
| 11010818 | Complaint Transmission control unit Y3/8n4 (fully integrated transmission control unit (VGS)) not listed in quick test and/or no communication possible with VGS. Cause Transmission control unit Y3/8n4 Remedy It is important that LI54.15-P-057373 is processed before replacing any component parts (transmission 722.9). After processing and complying with the above documents, perform a reset on the transmission control unit Y3/8n4 (VGS) (ignition reset), check that the transmission connector is seated correctly and inspect the PINs for concerns. If communication with the VGS cannot be established |
| 11010755 | Complaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved. In vehicles with "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)": The message "SOS - service not activated" permanently lights up in the instrument cluster AND the actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see |
| 11010438 | Complaint Customer complains about anti-theft alarm system triggering without obvious cause when the vehicle is parked and/or when entering the vehicle. All MFA2 and 167 derivates with code 882 may be affected. Cause This is caused by a sporadic loss of communication to the anti-theft alarm system [N26/6]. In many instances there are one or more FCs U110D87, U001988, U016787 stored in the control units anti-theft alarm system [N26/6] and/or signal acquisition and actuation module [N10] / [N10/6]. The alarm system memory may contain several alarm sources. Remedy Please process all following poi |
| 11009549 | Complaint Customer complains about anti-theft alarm system triggering without obvious cause when the vehicle is parked and/or when entering the vehicle. All MFA2 and 167 derivates with code 882 may be affected. Cause This is caused by a sporadic loss of communication to the anti-theft alarm system [N26/6]. In many instances there are one or more FCs U110D87, U001988, U016787 stored in the control units anti-theft alarm system [N26/6] and/or signal acquisition and actuation module [N10] / [N10/6]. The alarm system memory may contain several alarm sources. Remedy Please process all following poi |
| 11009122 | Complaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3. Washer fluid hose cannot be snapped into place on pump fitting. 3.4. Washer fluid hose will not stay on pump fitting, although connector OK. 4. Washer fluid line. 4.1 Connector will not stay on pump fitting because it is broken. 4.2 Sealing ring in connector missing. 4.3 Sealing ring in connector fitted, but deformed and therefore leaks. 4.4 Damage to washer l |
| 11009036 | Complaint "Active Emergency Stop Assist Currently Unavailable" and "Active Steering Assist Inoperative" instrument cluster messages along with Tire Pressure Light on in Instrument Cluster. Cause Both systems are temporarily unavailable due to low tire pressures. An active tire pressure monitor light may result in some assistance features being temporarily unavailable until tire pressures are corrected. Remedy Check/adjust tire pressures and reset monitoring through the instrument cluster. |
| 11008880 | Complaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved. In vehicles with "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)": The message "SOS - service not activated" permanently lights up in the instrument cluster AND the actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see |
| 11008712 | Complaint Check engine light on. One of the below fault codes is current in the engine control module (N3/10). P04DB29, P04DB31, P04DB79 Cause Open circuit or high resistance to crankcase vent line contact Remedy 1. Check the electrical connector for the relevant vent line contact switch noted below. Refer to attached photos of connection locations. 2. Ensure the bolted connection is secure and bolt can be torqued (9Nm). 3. Check continuity from vent line connection to ME control unit. Repair wire if damage is found. The circuit from ME provides 5V and is pulled to 0V when the ground connecti |
| 11008323 | Complaint Headlamps fogged or droplets forming. Cause Due to its outlet openings, the headlamp is an "open system". This means that acidic gases, moisture, dirt and exhaust gases can penetrate into the headlamp. This can lead to the formation of condensation on the lens of the headlamp. The headlamps comply with all applicable US standards and regulations. Remedy Check housing cover of lamp unit for natural fogging or condensation as per LI82.10-P-078301. If a reduction in the degree of fogging is visible, the desiccant packs can be used once the condensation has completely evaporated. Note: O |
| 11008093 | Complaint After clicking on the "Radio" selection function, the radio does not start and instead a permanent loading wheel is displayed. See attached picture for example. Cause Software version Remedy A26/17 - MBUX multimedia system (Head unit) unit must be replaced. When the head unit is in this condition, a software update will not remedy the situation. NOTE: The information contained in this document is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge to properly and safely perform diagnosis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, using Mercedes-Benz approved tools a |
| 11008091 | Complaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A. Seating of the microphones in the headliner. Side edges are covered by the textile cover (see picture "1") B. Assembly of microphones (B25/20 or B25/21) in the headliner. C. Dirt inside the microphone housing Remedy 1. Press finger on rear of microphone (on adhesive tape) 2. Remove microphone cap from the front 3. Eliminate protrudin |
| 11008056 | Complaint Check engine light on. Fault code P207273 - "Throttle actuator valve is blocked due to ice" stored. Engine may crank and not start. Fault code P210185 may also be stored. Cause Moisture freezing on throttle actuator during extreme low ambient temperatures. Remedy Update software of engine control module. Software increases throttle valve flapping after engine turned off to prevent moisture buildup. |
| 11007974 | Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamps or Front Fog Lamps Leaking or Fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for cor |
| 11007972 | Complaint After clicking on the "Radio" selection function, the radio does not start and instead a permanent loading wheel is displayed. See attached picture for example. Cause Software version Remedy A26/17 - MBUX multimedia system (Head unit) unit must be replaced. When the head unit is in this condition, a software update will not remedy the situation. |
| 11007796 | Complaint Individual functions such as sliding sunroof or roller sunblind can no longer be operated using the gesture recognition system. Cause Gesture recognition system control unit software N168 Remedy For vehicles before modification year 23/2: A remedy is currently being developed. Replacing parts will have no effect. For vehicles as of modification year 23/2: Considered to be a series production configuration. A change will not be possible in future. |
| 11007753 | Complaint Headlamp or front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an eng |
| 11006700 | Complaint Once the head unit A26/17 is updated to the FUP4 software release E445.0, it may be the case that online connectivity is no longer available Cause E445.0 FUP4 software release Remedy Update the A26/17 - MBUX multimedia system (Head unit) software to E445.2 FUP4 Optimized or newer version to resolve the complaint. |
| 11005334 | Complaint Hand detection system not operating correctly / vehicles with code 266 Fault message in instrument cluster: "Active Emergency Stop Assist not available" "Active Lane Keeping Assist not available" Cause Possible causes: the hand detection mat, the hand detection control unit, the contacts and the steering wheel harness. Remedy Test Procedure: Perform an initial quick test with freeze frame data. Save the N179 - Hand detection system (HE) and N62/4 - Driver assistance system (SG-FAS) control unit logs. Note the fault frequency of fault codes set. Delete the N179 and N62/4 fault memory. |
| 11005313 | Complaint Check engine light on and fault code P019185 current or stored in MED41 control unit. Adaptation and misfire faults may also be stored. Vehicle may enter limp home mode. Cause False detection of rail pressure sensor out of range. Remedy Update software of engine control module N3/10. Reset mixture adaptation and clear fault codes. |
| 11005294 | Complaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps. Remedy Rear lamp: Remedy 1: Clearing fogged/condensed rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) Note: Do not wash the vehicle or subject it to high-pressure cleaning before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the trunk. 4. Switch on the exterior lighting. 5. Leave the ve |
| 11005288 | Complaint Instrument cluster message "4MATIC inoperative". The following fault code may be present in all-wheel drive control unit N15/17: P147354 - Erroneous adaptation of the transfer case. The calibration is missing. P14759A - The coupling of the transfer case has malfunctioned. The operating conditions for the component or the system have not been fulfilled. Cause Coupling of the rear axle differential has reached the wear limit or a coupling defect is present. Remedy Please read off the installed part number of the rear axle differential. For model designations (flat model series and not |
| 11000596 | Instrument cluster message "4MATIC inoperative". The following fault code may be present in all-wheel drive control unit N15/17: P147354 - Erroneous adaptation of the transfer case. The calibration is missing. P14759A - The coupling of the transfer case has malfunctioned. The operating conditions for the component or the system have not been fulfilled. Coupling of the rear axle differential has reached the wear limit or a coupling defect is present. Remedy Please read off the installed part number of the rear axle differential. For model designations (flat model series and not AMG 35 variant |
| 11000541 | Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain MY21-24 C-Class, CLA, EQB, EQE, EQS, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, GT, S-Class, and SL (118, 167, 192, 206, 223, 232, 243, 247, 254, 290, 294, 295, 296 and 297 platform) vehicles, the MBUX system software does not correspond with the latest series production configuration. The MBUX system will receive an OTA update that includes general product improvements and robustness enhancements for a better entertainment experience. MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. Remote software updates are automatically |
NHTSA manufacturer communications (public domain)