Motoring Today

Mercedes-Benz CLA MOT reliability

Reliability from 4 Mercedes-Benz CLA cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons, and how much MOT life is left.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Mercedes-Benz CLA at MOT?

Across 5 Mercedes-Benz CLA cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 68%. 100% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 9 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are visibility (windscreen & wipers), tyres and brakes, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
68%
Valid MOT
5 / 5
Median MOT left
9 mo
Top failure
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)

Starting from £10,480, the Mercedes-Benz CLA is a popular choice for those seeking a stylish executive compact. While no national MOT pass rate or test volume figures are available for this specific model, understanding how MOT results generally reflect car condition is crucial. Motoring Today currently lists 3 Mercedes-Benz CLA models, with representative finance options starting from £244 per month (subject to status). When purchasing any used vehicle, it is important to remember that an MOT pass rate reflects the condition of cars *as presented* for test, not necessarily their lifetime reliability. Failures frequently cluster with a vehicle's age and how well it has been maintained, rather than being an inherent flaw of the badge itself. Therefore, a comprehensive inspection is always advised. Although specific failure categories for the CLA are not available, common MOT issues across all makes typically involve lighting, tyres, brakes, and suspension components. A pre-purchase check should focus on these areas, alongside reviewing the full MOT history available on every Motoring Today listing to spot any recurring advisories or failure trends.

68First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
5 / 5
100% road-ready
Median MOT left
9 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Mercedes-Benz CLA

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 4 Mercedes-Benz CLA cars with DVSA test history in our stock (14 recorded failure items, 6 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)643%
Tyres429%
Brakes214%
Lighting & electrical214%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Mercedes-Benz CLA cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What to check before buying a used Mercedes-Benz CLA?
Always arrange a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. Focus checks on tyres, lights, and suspension components, as these are common MOT failure points across many models.
How many used Mercedes-Benz CLA cars are currently for sale on Motoring Today?
There are 3 used Mercedes-Benz CLA cars currently listed for sale on Motoring Today, as of 17 August 2026. The cheapest model is priced from £10,480.
What is the cheapest monthly price for a used Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The cheapest Mercedes-Benz CLA currently listed on Motoring Today can be financed from £244 per month. This is a representative example, and finance is subject to status.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
Across 4 Mercedes-Benz CLA cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are visibility (windscreen & wipers), tyres and brakes (visibility (windscreen & wipers) account for 43% of recorded failures).

More Mercedes-Benz CLA resources