Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 by year filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250
SUV, gasoline, FWD/Front-Wheel Drive, built in Germany. Owner complaints on file from Sep 8, 2026 to Sep 8, 2026.
Recall campaigns covering this model year110 vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints2Below the median 2026 suv
Severity index0.02026 suvs average 10.9
First 24 monthsOpenWindow has not closed yet
Components
50% of complaints about the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 name electrical system
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
One recall campaign covers the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26V-134 | Mar 6, 2026 | Bowden cable may have been incorrectly installed, which can prevent the door from opening from inside the vehicle | Latches and locks | 10 | Repair or modification |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
2 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Sep 8, 2026Failure Sep 1, 20261,600 milesScottsdale, AZLock
The contact owns a 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and groceries were being placed inside the trunk, the hatch unexpectedly closed. The hatch struck the contact on the head and failed to raise up. The contact moved out of the way before the hatch completely closed. The contact was traumatized by the failure and was taking aspirin for the pain. The dealer was contacted but the vehicle was not yet diagnosed. The manufacturer was contacted by phone and was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,600.
NHTSA complaint 11762883 - Filed Sep 8, 2026Failure Sep 4, 2026Chula Vista, CAElectrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system
I am writing to formally submit an urgent safety escalation and Lemon Law notice regarding my 2026 GLA 250, purchased brand new on February 26, 2026, as a replacement vehicle following the severe operational disruptions associated with the EQB 300 recall. As a parent of a family member with a disability, reliable and secure transportation is an absolute necessity. I selected the Mercedes-Benz brand based on its reputation for engineering integrity and safety. Regrettably, the vehicle delivered has proven to be mechanically hazardous and operationally compromised. Since taking delivery, the vehicle has experienced the following recurring, catastrophic failures: • Multiple recurrent check engine warnings. • Three separate instances of complete failure to shift while actively operating in traffic. • Four complete starting failures accompanied by a permanent black screen. • Two total blackouts of the entire instrument cluster, odometers, and operational systems while in motion, with the most recent occurrence taking place on September 4, 2026.
NHTSA complaint 11762814
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
57 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall.
- LI27.19-P-080869 Aug 29, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Temporary no start condition with check engine light and multiple warning messages. When performing a quick test, the following fault code is stored in Y3/14 ‑ Transmission control for 8‑speed dual‑clutch transmission (DKG): P24F100 The wake‑up li… - LI54.71-P-080349 Aug 26, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Frequent rear view camera flap actuations and/or noise associated. NOTE: Rear view camera functions are NOT affected and still perform in accordance with regulatory requirements. Cause Calibration of the reversing camera is in progress. This is no… - LI72.20-P-075746 Aug 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so… - PSL-NCU Return Parts 8/21 Aug 21, 2026 · Other
Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, September 10th, 2026. After … - LI54.65-P-080132 Aug 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics. Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached di… - LI82.62-P-078631 Aug 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Clanking noise from the area of the speakers in the doors. Cause Under analysis. Remedy To narrow down the cause, first of all remove the door trim. • If the noise continues to occur even with the door trim removed, then continue the diagnosis wor… - LI54.21-P-080326 Jul 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint CEL light on with no drivability concerns. Cause Signal timing error. Remedy 167, 465: SW has been released. Update the FSAM to the latest SW version. 290, 118, 243, 247: Software is still in development. This fault code does not cause a drivabili… - LI35.30-P-058566 Jul 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by exp… - LI82.60-P-080383 Jul 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause When a new station change request is triggered, a temporary glitch is causing the Head U… - LI54.21-P-080326 Jul 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint CEL light on with no drivability concerns. Cause Signal timing error. Remedy 167: SW has been released. Update the FSAM to the latest SW version. 465, 290, 118, 243, 247: Software is still in development. This fault code does not cause a drivabili… - PSL-NCU Return Parts 6/19 Jun 19, 2026 · Other
Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 9, 2026. After July 9th… - NCU - 2026050007 Jun 5, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Update Digital Operator's Manual. 1. Connect XENTRY Diagnosis. 2. Update Digital Operator's Manual. To do this, select menu item "Quick test view → A26/17 - MBUX multimedia system (head unit) → Adaptations → Control unit update → Update control unit softwar… - LI00.20-P-080703 Jun 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Service code B1 displayed in the customer menu does not match the workshop code displayed in the workshop menu, e.g., 505 or 550A, which includes a service A. Cause The root cause is currently being investigated. Remedy To determine the cause, the… - LI54.71-P-080349 Jun 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Frequent rear view camera flap actuations and/or noise associated. NOTE: Rear view camera functions are NOT affected and still perform in accordance with regulatory requirements. Cause Calibration of the reversing camera is in progress. This is no… - LI82.85-P-080507 May 26, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint After successful commissioning of the HERMES control unit (N112/9) with XENTRY Diagnosis DVD 03/2026, the message "SOS - service not activated" appears on the instrument cluster. In addition, the following two conditions are also met: • HERMES (N1… - LI46.15-P-070510 May 22, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Noises from the area of the steering column. - Creaking - Squeaking - Chattering - Humming - Grinding Cause At present, there are no known noise problems with the steering column. Remedy Check surrounding area of the steering column for possible n… - LI82.30-P-059239 May 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint There are several types of complaint about noises or poor windshield wiper wiping performance: A: Wiper blades squeaking, chattering, shuddering B: The windshield is not wiped completely (streaking) C: During the downward movement water is pulled … - LI32.25-P-070053 May 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint There may be creaking noises when steering while stationary or driving slowly. See Example Noise attachment Cause The vehicle level of the front axle may be too low. The noises when steering can be caused by continuous contact of the end stop buff… - LI67.10-P-071418 May 13, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Wind noises in area along the top of windshield at speeds above 60mph. Cause Insufficient sealing between the windshield lip seal and the body. Remedy Preliminary Check: Before beginning repairs, verify the source of the wind noise: 1. Mask off th… - LI54.65-P-080132 May 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI46.15-P-070510 May 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Cause At present, there are no known noise problems with the steering column. Remedy Check surrounding area of the steering column for possible noises. • Instrument panel support • Steering column switch module If noise only occurs when adjusting the steeri… - LI82.10-P-078301 Apr 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Headlamp, 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. If a pressure compensation diaphragm… - LI00.01-P-078887 Apr 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The intent of this document is to provide workshops with helpful technical reference language. • Commonly used acronyms in LI's and TIPS cases. • Control unit names, numbers, and how to identify. • Network/wiring architecture groups to baumuster q… - LI72.20-P-075746 Apr 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so… - LI82.60-P-080383 Apr 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause When a new station change request is triggered, a temporary glitch is causing the Head U… - LI01.30-P-072328 Mar 27, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint -Check engine light illuminated. -Engine runs rough. -Poor shifting or jerking when accelerating. -Fault codes stored related to mixture formation, injector quantity adjustment, or misfire. Note: One or more of the above symptoms can occur. It is … - LI00.01-P-078887 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The intent of this document is to provide workshops with helpful technical reference language. • Commonly used acronyms in LI's and TIPS cases. • Control unit names, numbers, and how to identify. • Network/wiring architecture groups to baumuster q… - LI54.71-P-080349 Mar 27, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Frequent rear view camera flap actuations and/or noise associated. NOTE: Rear view camera functions are NOT affected and still perform in accordance with regulatory requirements. Cause Calibration of the reversing camera is in progress. This is no… - LI54.71-P-080349 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Frequent rear view camera flap actuations and/or noise associated. NOTE: Rear view camera functions are NOT affected and still perform in accordance with regulatory requirements. Cause Calibration of the reversing camera is in progress. This is no… - LI82.60-P-080383 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause Root cause currently being investigated. Remedy Please do not replace any parts. Please … - LI54.65-P-080132 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI32.25-P-070053 Mar 10, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint There may be creaking noises when steering while stationary or driving slowly. See Example Noise attachment Cause The vehicle level of the front axle may be too low. The noises when steering can be caused by continuous contact of the end stop buff… - LI82.10-P-078301 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Headlamp, 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. If a pressure compensation diaphragm … - LI54.10-P-073164 Mar 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Yellow information message in driver display (instrument cluster): "Switch on motor to charge the 12V battery" Cause The state of charge (SOC) of the 12V battery has dropped to 45% or less. Remedy This warning message appears as soon as the state … - LI46.15-P-070510 Mar 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Noises from the area of the steering column. - Creaking - Squeaking - Chattering - Humming - Grinding Cause At present, there are no known noise problems with the steering column. Remedy Check surrounding area of the steering column for possible n… - LI54.65-P-080132 Feb 28, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI72.20-P-075746 Feb 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. E.g. when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so tha… - LI82.10-P-078301 Feb 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Headlamp, 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. If a pressure compensation diaphragm … - LI54.65-P-080132 Feb 13, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI01.30-P-072328 Feb 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint -Check engine light illuminated. -Engine runs rough. -Poor shifting or jerking when accelerating. -Fault codes stored related to mixture formation, injector quantity adjustment, or misfire. Note: One or more of the above symptoms can occur. It is … - LI54.65-P-080132 Jan 30, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI00.01-P-078887 Jan 21, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The intent of this document is to provide workshops with helpful technical reference language. • Commonly used acronyms in LI's and TIPS cases. • Control unit names, numbers, and how to identify. • Network/wiring architecture groups to baumuster q… - LI83.30-P-079850 Jan 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Customer states the AC either does not cool/has poor performance or heat is insufficient. Cause Many possible root causes Remedy *Note - This Li does not apply if there are other Li's that apply to your concern OR you have a fault and/or guided te… - LI83.30-P-079850 Jan 15, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Customer states the AC either does not cool/has poor performance or heat is insufficient. Cause Many possible root causes Remedy AC Diagnosis (General) Initial Steps Verify Customer Concern • Confirm the issue reported by the customer. Compare to … - LI83.30-P-079850 Jan 7, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Customer states the AC either does not cool/has poor performance or heat is insufficient. Cause Many possible root causes Remedy AC Diagnosis (General) Initial Steps Verify Customer Concern • Confirm the issue reported by the customer. Compare to … - LI54.65-P-066284 Dec 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The flap of the reversing camera opens and closes by itself during forward travel several times during the trip. No camera image is displayed in the head unit. The reversing camera or the 360° system functions normally when activated manually or … - LI27.19-P-080155 Dec 19, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Oil residue in connector of transmission control unit in dual-clutch transmission models 724.0 and 724.1. Cause As part of the production process, the electrohydraulic controller units are subjected to a function test in an oil bath. Any oil resid… - LI54.65-P-080132 Dec 11, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI82.00-P-080103 Dec 4, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint <p>A finger is permanently detected although none is present, but it is not identified (ghost function).</p><p>The result is a constant beep tone because no valid finger is detected and therefore no corresponding user profile can be assigned. </p>… - LI82.85-P-080094 Dec 3, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Displayed Message: “Driver camera not functioning, see Operator’s Manual” Cause Interior temperature too high due to: • Summer heat • Direct sunlight • Lack of air conditioning or ventilation Camera enters self-protection mode to prevent overheati… - LI54.10-P-078888 Dec 3, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The check engine light illuminates or the 48 V message is displayed in the instrument cluster Cause Fault code "P0A7F00" stored in the 48 V battery G1/3 and/or is current. Remedy 1. Perform software update: In the given problem case, update the so… - LI33.30-P-056665 Nov 15, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The clunk is heard once when changing from forward to reverse (and vice versa). Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eli… - LI68.20-P-080012 Nov 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint USB port not functioning properly. Cause Most reported USB port issues are due to improper use or contamination. Note: Any repair costs must be discussed with the customer beforehand. Common external factors identified include: • Fluid intrusion •… - LI68.20-P-080012 Nov 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint USB port not functioning properly. Cause Most reported USB port issues are due to improper use or contamination. Note: Any repair costs must be discussed with the customer beforehand. Common external factors identified include: • Fluid intrusion •… - NCU - 2025100004 Oct 31, 2025 · Service Campaign
Issue Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain subject vehicles, the 48-V on-board electrical system battery software might not meet current production specifications. A communication error may occur when … - LI35.31-P-077429 Oct 29, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 transfe… - LI42.10-P-079904 Oct 20, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint At low speeds and light brake pressure, brakes will make a groaning or honking noise. Cause Frictional vibrations with very light brake pressure/modulations. Remedy This condition can be duplicated on most vehicles. To validate, use a like for lik…
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.