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 75%. 80% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 8 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
75%
Valid MOT
4 / 5
Median MOT left
8 mo
Top failure
Tyres

Motoring Today currently lists 6 Mercedes-Benz GLA models, with prices starting from £8,699, or a representative monthly finance example of £225. Based on 65,484 real UK MOT tests, the GLA achieves an 88.06% national MOT pass rate. While this figure reflects cars presented for testing and not necessarily lifetime reliability, it offers insight into common maintenance areas. The most frequent reasons for failure, according to DVSA data, include tyres (31% share), lighting and electrical issues (16%), and brakes (15%). For a used car buyer, this means paying close attention to tyre tread depth and condition, checking all lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators, and registration plate illumination), and testing brake effectiveness and disc/pad wear during a pre-purchase inspection or test drive. Visibility issues, often relating to windscreen damage or wiper performance, account for a further 13% of failures. It's important to remember that MOT pass rates are influenced by a car's age, mileage, and maintenance history, not just the badge. Failures tend to cluster around neglected items or typical wear-and-tear components. Checking the full MOT history for any prospective GLA on Motoring Today can highlight recurring issues and inform your purchase decision.

75First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
4 / 5
80% road-ready
Median MOT left
8 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
1
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?
Based on 65484 national DVSA MOT tests, the Mercedes-Benz GLA has an average MOT pass rate of 88.06%. This figure reflects cars presented for their MOT test, not necessarily their overall long-term reliability.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Mercedes-Benz GLA?
The top MOT failure categories for the Mercedes-Benz GLA are Tyres (31% of failures), Lighting & electrical (16%), Other (16%), Brakes (15%), and Visibility (windscreen & wipers) (13%).
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA reliable?
An MOT pass rate of 88.06% suggests a good pass rate for the GLA when presented for its test. However, MOT results reflect a car's condition at a specific point in time, and issues like age and maintenance can impact long-term reliability. We cannot provide a definitive reliability score.
What should I check before buying a used Mercedes-Benz GLA?
Before buying, pay close attention to the tyres, ensuring good tread depth and no damage. Thoroughly check all lights and electrical systems, the braking system for wear, and the windscreen and wipers for any cracks or damage, as these are common MOT failure areas for the GLA.
How many Mercedes-Benz GLAs are currently for sale and what is the cheapest monthly price?
As of 4 September 2026, there are 5 Mercedes-Benz GLAs for sale. The cheapest available model has a monthly representative finance price of £235. Finance is 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).