2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic recalls and problems

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic has 1 safety recall and 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
3
Crashes / fires
0 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic recalls

Recall 26V-481: Latches/Locks/Linkages

Reported Jul 24, 2026 · 310,667 vehicles affected · Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CLA, 2019-2022 A-Class, 2022-2023 C-Class, 2024 CLE, 2020-2026 GLA/GLB, and 2023-2024 GLC vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific model information. The micro-switch in the driver's door lock may corrode and fail to detect an open door, preventing the electronic parking brake or "Auto-Park" feature from engaging automatically. This may result in a vehicle rollaway.

Risk: A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix: Dealers will replace the driver's door lock, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 18, 2026. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning July 31, 2026.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine3
Service Brakes1

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · reported Sep 19, 2026
On 7/17/26, while driving at highway speed, the check engine light illuminated and the vehicle lost power and shut off. I safely pulled over. It would not restart; a red battery warning displayed. Towed to Mercedes-Benz of Wilkes-Barre, RO #8388432. Dealer found battery severely discharged, replaced it, then found engine would not turn by hand. Diagnosis: internal engine damage/seized; recommended full engine replacement, est. $20,128, on a 2021 GLA 250 with 82,137 miles. MBUSA TSB MC-10241534-0001 (8/4/2023) extends the emission warranty on the exhaust valve assembly (cylinder head, exhaust…
Engine · reported Apr 8, 2026
I recently purchased my vehicle with under 30k miles in July of 2026. Not long after my purchase my car began roughly idling with a blinking check engine light, and soon after the engine began misfiring. This also cause loss of power when attempting to accelerate creating dangerous conditions in high traffic/fast paced areas. After lots of research I found several reports of owners with cylinder failures. The dealership only responded to fixing the issue after calling them out directly on the issue.
Engine · reported Feb 5, 2026
Component/System: Engine cooling and lubrication system. Coolant was found mixing with engine oil (milky oil), indicating internal engine failure (I was informed it could be oil cooler/housing, thermostat, head gasket, or related components). Vehicle is currently at an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership and available for inspection. The front left inner lining of my front break pad also "failed" inspection and the other 3 front break pads say "caution" and I never received a notification or warning about my breaks. Safety Risk: Coolant contamination of engine oil can cause sudden engine…

Other Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic years

Compare all Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic years · All Mercedes-Benz models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic: 26V-481 (latches/locks/linkages). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic?

Owners report engine problems most often (3 reports), followed by service brakes (1).

Are Mercedes-Benz recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.