Motoring Today

Mercedes-Benz GLA MOT reliability

Reliability from 16 Mercedes-Benz GLA 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 GLA at MOT?

Across 5 Mercedes-Benz GLA cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 60%. 80% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 10 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are tyres, other and lighting & electrical, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
60%
Valid MOT
4 / 5
Median MOT left
10 mo
Top failure
Tyres

Motoring Today currently lists 2 Mercedes-Benz GLA models, with prices starting from £9,658 or a representative monthly payment of £235. Based on 65,484 real UK MOT tests, the GLA achieves a national DVSA MOT pass rate of 88.06%. This figure reflects how cars were presented for their annual inspection, not their overall lifetime reliability, as failures often correlate with a vehicle's age and general maintenance rather than the badge itself. The most common reasons for a GLA to fail its MOT are Tyres (31% of failures), Lighting & electrical (16%), and Brakes (15%). For prospective used-car buyers, this means paying close attention to tyre condition – checking tread depth across the whole tyre, looking for bulges or cracks – as this is the leading cause of MOT failure. Lighting issues can range from simple blown bulbs to more complex wiring problems, so verify all lights, including indicators and brake lights, are fully functional. Brake issues often relate to worn pads, discs, or calliper problems; a pre-purchase inspection should assess brake effectiveness and listen for any grinding noises. These areas are crucial to check thoroughly before purchasing a used GLA, as addressing them post-purchase can incur additional costs. Remember, every listing on Motoring Today includes a full MOT history, allowing you to review a car's past performance.

60First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
4 / 5
80% road-ready
Median MOT left
10 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Mercedes-Benz GLA

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 16 Mercedes-Benz GLA cars with DVSA test history in our stock (16 recorded failure items, 8 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Tyres744%
Other425%
Lighting & electrical319%
Suspension16%
Brakes16%

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 GLA 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 is the MOT pass rate for a used Mercedes-Benz GLA?
According to real national DVSA MOT tests across the UK, the Mercedes-Benz GLA has an overall pass rate of 88.06% based on 65,484 tests.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Mercedes-Benz GLA?
The top failure categories for the Mercedes-Benz GLA are Tyres at 31%, Lighting & electrical at 16%, Other at 16%, Brakes at 15%, and Visibility (windscreen & wipers) at 13%.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA reliable?
While the MOT pass rate of 88.06% reflects cars presented for their annual test, it does not fully encompass long-term reliability. Failures tend to cluster as vehicles age and if regular maintenance is neglected.
What should I check before buying a used Mercedes-Benz GLA?
When inspecting a used Mercedes-Benz GLA, pay close attention to the tyres, ensuring good tread depth and no damage, and check all lights, including brake lights and indicators. Also, inspect the brakes for wear and the windscreen and wipers for any chips or damage.
How many Mercedes-Benz GLA models are currently for sale and what's the cheapest price?
There are currently 4 Mercedes-Benz GLA models listed for sale, with the cheapest available from £9658. Alternatively, representative finance options start from £235 per month, subject to status.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Mercedes-Benz GLA?
Across 16 Mercedes-Benz GLA cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are tyres, other and lighting & electrical (tyres account for 44% of recorded failures).

More Mercedes-Benz GLA resources