Motoring Today

Mercedes-Benz CLA MOT reliability

Reliability from 9 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 4 Mercedes-Benz CLA cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 70%. 100% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 12 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are visibility (windscreen & wipers), tyres and lighting & electrical, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
70%
Valid MOT
4 / 4
Median MOT left
12 mo
Top failure
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)

There are currently 3 Mercedes-Benz CLA models available on Motoring Today, with prices starting from £9,780, or a representative monthly finance payment of £227. All listings include an FCA-style finance quote, ULEZ status, and full MOT history, allowing buyers to thoroughly check a vehicle's past. It's important to remember that a vehicle's MOT pass rate reflects the condition of cars presented for test, not necessarily the lifetime reliability of the model. Failures are often more indicative of a car's age, mileage, and maintenance history than the specific badge on the bonnet. Regular servicing and preventative maintenance can significantly impact a car's ability to pass its annual MOT.

70First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
4 / 4
100% road-ready
Median MOT left
12 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 9 Mercedes-Benz CLA cars with DVSA test history in our stock (15 recorded failure items, 6 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)640%
Tyres427%
Lighting & electrical320%
Brakes213%

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?
Before purchasing a used Mercedes-Benz CLA, it's advisable to check the overall condition, service history, and look for any warning lights. Pay close attention to tyres, brakes, and lights, as these are common MOT failure points for many vehicles.
How many Mercedes-Benz CLA models are for sale now?
According to Motoring Today's live stock data updated on 19 September 2026, there are 4 Mercedes-Benz CLA models currently for sale.
What is the cheapest Mercedes-Benz CLA available?
The cheapest Mercedes-Benz CLA currently listed for sale costs £9780, with a representative finance example available from £227 per month, subject to status.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
Across 9 Mercedes-Benz CLA cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are visibility (windscreen & wipers), tyres and lighting & electrical (visibility (windscreen & wipers) account for 40% of recorded failures).

More Mercedes-Benz CLA resources