2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

On January 8, 2021, after ongoing review with Mercedes Benz, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-001 to assess allegations of front roof panel detachments while driving at highway speeds in certain 2015 Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes) C-Class vehicles.The subject front roof panel is a stationary panel composed of polycarbonate and is attached to the vehicle via adhesive at the time of manufacture. The panel is found on subject vehicles equipped with panoramic sunroofs. Over time, the subject panels may exhibit cosmetic degradation leading to replacement of the panel, a procedure which entails: removal of the old panel and adhesive, site preparation, and installation of a replacement panel with new adhesive.The consumer complaints that prompted the opening of PE21-001 all described detachments of front roof panels that had been replaced after the vehicle was put into service.Mercedes' internal investigation identified a broader scope of affected vehicles (2014-2020 CLA, GLA, C, S, GLC, and GLE class) and found the following potential service procedure- related causes of front roof panel detachments:- Improper surface pretreatments such as the use of the wrong primer or cleaner or scoring of the surface; or - Use of the incorrect adhesive.These conditions lead to a front roof panel bond that, even if sound at the time of repair, cannot maintain its strength over time and environmental exposure.Mercedes updated its service and parts ordering systems to reinforce the proper use of specified kits and procedures via webinars, shop foreman meetings, and explicit reference to the risks incurred by diverging from the repair procedures. Mercedes is also furnishing parts ordering assistance, and will hold dealerships accountable for improper repairs.ODI's analysis of the ten complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and MBUSA's complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for PE21-001 identified a total of 57 non-duplicative reports alleging incidents in which the front roof panel detached from the vehicle while in motion. Included within the 57 reports are incidents where consumers state the panel detached ...and flew off into traffic.On March 19, 2021, Mercedes notified NHTSA that it would recall subject vehicles with front roof panels known to have been replaced after the original sale of the vehicle. In total, the recall (designated as Recall 21V197) covers 15,099 vehicles that were ever registered in the United States. Based on Recall 21V197 and the remedy implemented by Mercedes, further investigation does not appear to be warranted at this time.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.nhtsa.gov under the following ODI identification numbers: 11376425, 11352686, 11351629, 11349158, 11341541, 11337594, 11324100, 11311591, 11222127, 11404183

Sunroof glass exploded without warning while driving at highway speed. Glass shards poured throughout the vehicle including on the driver, potentially putting the vehicle and other vehicles in danger.

NHTSA ID

11748081

Incident

Jul 2, 2026

I am filing a complaint regarding my 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. My vehicle recently triggered a check engine light and was diagnosed by an independent mechanic with code P052E, related to the positive crankcase ventilation regulator valve / crankcase ventilation system. My mechanic advised that this issue appears to be similar to a known Mercedes-Benz issue affecting other model years and/or related Mercedes models. Mercedes-Benz has issued an emissions extended warranty/service coverage for a similar crankcase ventilation / intake line assembly issue on other vehicles, including fault code P052E71. However, my vehicle does not appear to be included despite having the same or very similar failure code and system issue. I am concerned that this may be a broader defect affecting additional Mercedes vehicles beyond the models currently covered. The issue involves the crankcase ventilation/PCV system and may require repair of related intake line, valve cover, oil separator, or ventilation valve components. I believe this should be reviewed because owners of vehicles with the same failure pattern may be responsible for costly repairs even though the issue appears similar to one Mercedes has already acknowledged on other models. I am requesting that NHTSA review whether 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vehicles should be included in any related recall, defect investigation, emissions warranty extension, or service campaign related to code P052E / P052E71 and the crankcase ventilation regulator valve system.

NHTSA ID

11745674

Incident

May 27, 2026

The vehicle experienced a sudden, total communication network crash on [XXX] the vehicle simultaneously triggered cascading critical safety system faults including “ inoperable” messages for the SOS system, Supplemental Restraint System ( SRS) and antilock brake system(ABS) along with check engine light on dashboard. The car locked itself in park and completely refuses to engage any drive gears. I took it to the dealer in Henderson, NV and they reported to me on Dec 24, 2025 that it will be a $1200 diagnostic and the repairs can be thousands of dollars. Since then I have taken it to 5 European and independent shops and have spent thousands of dollars for guess work. This happens sporadically I have been broken down where tow trucks have to retrieve my car and take to a shop where they have no clue of the issue. I am scared to drive it if it stalls on the streets and have a major accident. No problem has been resolved INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11741006

Incident

Dec 20, 2025

Why is the Crankcase Ventilation System P052E Code (PCV) covered in most Mercedes models, but not the GLA? This is an expensive repair that seems to cover other cars but penalizes GLA owners just to have a safe car to drive like the other models. I strongly believe GLA should be on the recall list for the matter, as it is dangerous to drive on the road, especially for those who cannot afford to fix it for upwards of $1,500 to $2000.

NHTSA ID

11720771

Incident

Feb 1, 2026

My vehicle has been taken to the Mercedes dealership multiple times from 2/24/25 -12/14/25 (10 Mths) for the following issues and still no resolution to the problem. Each time they say they've fixed the issues we get the car home and end up bringing it back a couple days later for the exact same issue. The issues being the Instrument Cluster/Panel failure (check engine light, multiple warning lights on display while driving, dash display is blacking out and unresponsive). The speedometer, fuel amount and mileage is also blacked out and unresponsive. The headlights, and tail lights also go off and are unresponsive while driving. We've also experienced the vehicle not going in reverse or drive and had to return it multiple times for this as well. These incidents are very serious safety hazards to the driver of the vehicle, other drivers and pedestrians. On several occasions we've addressed these problems with the dealership and still no resolve. However, we are paying very expensive labor fees only to return it with the same problems repeatedly and no explanation as to why the problem keeps recurring. We have receipts, photos and videos of this problem because the dealership kept stating they weren't seeing the issues we were seeing. However, after we presented the evidence and confirmation we have, they stated that they would conduct a diagnostic test and take a look, but the issues still have not been resolved after several times picking it up after they stated that they had changed the instrumental cluster. The last time after we returned it they discovered they had put the wrong part in the vehicle, however the same issues occurred with that part as well which is the reason we returned it to be looked at again. They changed it and still the same issue has repeated again. This is concerning and alarming that we were trusting them to work on the vehicle and driving the vehicle home thinking it is fixed and then discovering that they had put a wrong part in the car.

NHTSA ID

11705978

Incident

Feb 24, 2025

Dear NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, I am submitting a safety complaint regarding my 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 (VIN: [XXX] ). On October 28, 2025, while driving southbound on Interstate 5 near the Zamora Exit in California at approximately 8:15 a.m., the fully closed moonroof of my vehicle spontaneously shattered. There was no impact, debris, or external cause, and the vehicle was operated under normal conditions. The incident was extremely frightening and created a serious safety hazard while driving at freeway speed. I began shaking uncontrollably and immediately called my manager to report that I could not come into work due to shock. I also contacted my mother to help calm me down. Vehicle Details: VIN: [XXX] Mileage: 90,XXX miles Purchase: Approximately 5 years ago at Fairfield Mercedes-Benz dealership Condition: No prior repairs to the moonroof, no aftermarket modifications I have documented the incident with photos and video. I have reported this to Mercedes-Benz Customer Care and my insurance provider (USAA). Additionally, I have reached out to Washington Law Offices, who are currently handling a class action lawsuit regarding this issue. I am submitting this complaint to formally notify NHTSA of the dangerous defect and to request that the agency investigate this potential safety issue affecting Mercedes-Benz vehicles with panoramic or sunroof systems. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please confirm receipt of this complaint and advise on any additional steps I should take. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11696092

Incident

Oct 28, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, various warning lights, including the check engine, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), oil, and other warning lights, were intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for a diagnostic test; however, no faults were found with the vehicle. The contact stated that the sunroof failed to completely close; because of the failure, water was leaking inside the vehicle during inclement weather. In addition, the air bag warning light had also become illuminated. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was promised a call back. The failure mileage was 45,695.

NHTSA ID

11694586

Incident

Jun 1, 2021

Mileage

45,695 mi

This vehicle has a transmission control module defect. While driving, the car cuts off unexpectedly and prevents shifting gears, creating a serious safety risk that could easily cause an accident. A certified Mercedes-Benz dealer diagnosed the problem and confirmed it is an internal defect—one that cannot be prevented by regular maintenance or proper care of the vehicle. Because this is an internal issue, Mercedes-Benz should take immediate responsibility to repair it, rather than delaying or shifting accountability.

NHTSA ID

11687218

Incident

Jun 6, 2025

Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by experimentally loosening the outboard collar nut (by 1 turn), the problem is due to cracking of the microweld between the wheel bearing inner race and the joint housing of the side shaft. Note: The collar nut must always be replaced after being loosened. See also LI33.20-P-078406 Remedy Coat contact surface of side shaft with wheel bearing with Molykote paint. To do this, proceed as follows: 1. Remove side shafts 2. Clean contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing before") before coating with Molykote, using "spirit" (free of dust and grease) 3. Coat contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing after") with Molykote and leave to dry for "one hour" in removed condition 4. Reinstall side shafts Note: Before using the antifriction coating (Molykote), stir it or shake it thoroughly for (at least 1 minute).

Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 9, 2026. After July 9th, returns of these parts will no longer be accepted. These parts should be returned via ZSR Special Return, using item category SCM Authorized Part Return. Please include a copy of this NCU as your authorization to return these parts. This procedure will not affect your return allowance. All returned parts will be replaced in accordance with the chart provided below.

Complaint After successful commissioning of the HERMES control unit (N112/9) with XENTRY Diagnosis DVD 03/2026, the message "SOS - service not activated" appears on the instrument cluster. In addition, the following two conditions are also met: • HERMES (N112/9) control unit: event code B15CE00 is ACTIVE and STORED (A+S) • Vehicle Documentation System: For the HERMES control unit, the EID1, EID2, ICCID, IMEI, IMSI, TELNR fields in the "Identification/Serial number" column have the value "-" Cause Still under analysis Remedy Recommission the HERMES control unit (N112/9) with XENTRY Diagnosis 03/2026 and add-on 33399 installed or carry out the procedure with a newer version of XENTRY Diagnosis: XENTRY→ "N112/9 - Control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" -> "Adaptations" -> "Control unit commissioning" -> "Commissioning of previously installed control unit"

Complaint The customer requests deactivation of the N112/9 HERMES communication module Note: Deactivation of the HERMES control unit (N112/9) is not supported for gray-market vehicles. Cause Before deactivating the HERMES control unit (N112/9), it must be clarified by the legal department of the respective MPC whether and under what conditions deactivation may be carried out. If deactivation is not permissible under applicable law, the HERMES control unit (N112/9) must not be deactivated. Remedy Please inform the customer that, following deactivation, the vehicle will no longer be able to place an automatic emergency call, nor will the customer be able to place a manual emergency call. After deactivation, the Mercedes-Benz Digital Extras will also no longer be available. Please have the attached sample form checked by your market's legal department, adapted to local requirements if necessary, and approved. Furthermore, after informing the customer about the effects of deactivation, please have the workshop complete and sign the approved form together with the customer, and send it to the MPC via a TIPS case for audit-compliant documentation. Furthermore, the workshop must affix a sticker to the emergency call button cover on the overhead control panel and to the emergency call button itself. After affixing, pictures of the overhead control panel need to be attached to the TIPS case for audit-proof documentation. After deactivation, the HERMES control unit (N112/9) is in the "Out of Service" operating status, and the display "SOS NOT READY" appears in the Audio/COMAND system. This display message tells the customer that the emergency call function is not available. In detail, the following steps must be carried out 1. The workshop must inform the customer about the effects of deactivation (see above) 2. Legal review by the MPC Legal department to determine whether deactivation is permissible for the vehicle and provision of a market-specific customer form based on the examples (see "Example - Deactivation communication module HERMES customer declaration English V3.0.pdf") 3. Completion of the market-specific customer form by the workshop and obtaining the customer’s signature 4. Creation of a XSS ticket by the workshop for the MPC with the signed customer form attached 5. Written confirmation of legally reviewed and approved deactivation by the MPC in the TIPS case (see attachment How+to+request+adding+Code+09o+via+XSS+v2.pdf, point 1) 6. Creation of an XSS ticket for documentation of the SA code "09o" (zero nine oh) in the Vehicle Documentation System (see attachment How+to+request+adding+Code+09o+via+XSS+v2.pdf, steps 2–7) 7. Ordering of stickers (part number A9078172900), quantity: 2 8. Affixing of the sticker (part number A9078172900) to the cover of the emergency call button on the overhead control panel (see attachment HERMES-Deactivation_+pictures+of+sticker.png) 9. Affixing of the sticker (part number A9078172900) to the emergency call button on the overhead control panel (see attachment HERMES-Deactivation_+pictures+of+sticker.png) 10. Taking photos of the applied stickers and attaching them to the TIPS case 11. After the XSS ticket has been successfully processed, the communication module must be deactivated using XENTRY: • Connect XENTRY Diagnosis • Access the HERMES control unit (N112/9) • "Adaptation" tab, menu item "Teach-in processes" -> "Deactivation" • Follow the instructions

Complaint Headlamp, front fog lamp leaky or fogged. Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4 °F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing of fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps on electric vehicles: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4°F). 2. Connect battery backup via a charger. 3. Open the front-end flap and ensure sufficient ventilation. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4°F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in condensation, check the headlamp for malfunctions. (see Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Note: Only implement Remedy 1 for model series 463 (from model year 2018) and model series 465. Remedy 2 A defective headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness according to LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. Note: With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. • Open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078302 • Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304

Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause When a new station change request is triggered, a temporary glitch is causing the Head Unit application to fail to overwrite the previous request. This glitch is causing the cover art mismatch in the Radio application. Remedy Please do not replace any parts. The robustness measure has been identified and is planned for implementation in the A26/17 E505.9 software. The E505.9 software is expected to be available in XENTRY Q3 2026.