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2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA: common problems and reliability
One of the better CLA years.
7 owner complaints, most about fuel/propulsion system. No recalls.
Should I buy a 2021 CLA?The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA has 7 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are fuel/propulsion system and vehicle speed control. Owners most often flag serious engine failures in 2021+ models: complete engine replacements required under warranty for cla 35 amg and other mercedes models, with concerns about issues arising just after warranty expiration.
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other CLA years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the CLA?
Across the 14 CLA model years we track, complaint volume runs from 5 (2022) to 195 (2014). With 7 complaints, the 2021 CLA sits below the model's median of 24.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year, powertrain, and owner expectations.
- RecurrentSerious engine failures in 2021+ models
Complete engine replacements required under warranty for CLA 35 AMG and other Mercedes models, with concerns about issues arising just after warranty expiration.
Owner insights cover all generations of the CLA. See the full CLA owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used CLA listings typically run $14,675–$29,581.
Other CLA model years
Compare every CLA year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the CLA against its rivals
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