2016 Mercedes-Benz Cla250UNDER FEDERAL INVESTIGATIONWARRANTY EXTENSION ON FILE

66 federal complaints (100 component records) · 8 recall campaigns on file · 2 federal investigations · 88 service bulletins
See all 15 model years of the Mercedes-Benz Cla250 →
Engine
2.0L 4-cyl
Fuel
Premium
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
26 city / 37 hwy
Federal complaints
66
Recall campaigns
8
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Other
20
Engine & cooling
16
Air bags
13
Body & structure
8
Electrical system
8
Fuel system
7
Steering
6
Power train
6
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Engine & cooling

16 complaint records
"My car has slipped into neutral twice while driving. Once while turning left from red light and once while sitting still at red light...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Air bags

13 complaint records4 crash reports
"UNKNOWN ACCELERATED OUT OF DRIVEWAY, TURNING LEFT. COLLISION WITH OBJECT DEEMED VEHICLE TOTAL LOSS. NO AIRBAG DEPLOYED, FRONT END COLLISION. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →

Body & structure

8 complaint records1 crash report
"There is a service recall campaign for my model car but dealer/mercedes usa doesn't have the recall linking my car to it from my VIN. Campaign number is P-RC-2021070010...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse body & structure parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
EA21002
opened Sep 2021
OPENAir BagsDesiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
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.
PE21001
opened Jan 2021
closed Oct 2021StructureFront Roof Panel Detachment - led to recall 21V197000
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...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
23V854000StructureMercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details.Normally free
21V197000StructureMercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016...Normally free
21V058000Electrical SystemMercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class,...Normally free
19V892000Air BagsMercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2018 CLA250 and CLA250 4MATIC, and 2017-2018 CLA45 AMG vehicles.Normally free
19V787000CommunicationMercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially...Normally free
17V627000Air BagsMercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling these vehicles: 2014-2018 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, CLA45 AMG 4Matic, 2015-2018 GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, GLA45 AMG 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C63S AMG, 2012-2014 C250, C350, C300...Normally free
17V177000Electrical SystemMercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350...Normally free
17V114000Engine And Engine CoolingMercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 C300 4Matic, C300, CLA250, CLA250 4Matic and CLA45 AMG vehicles, 2017 C300 4Matic Cabrio, C300 4Matic Coupe, C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, E300, E300 4Matic,...Normally free

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
EW- ECU Software
Mar 2019
WARRANTY EXTENSIONEngineDaimler AG (“DAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on the various Model Year (“MY”) 2014 - 2018 Mercedes-Benz vehicles listed below, the engine control unit (ECU) software may not meet current specifications.
LI35.30-P-058566
Jul 2026
Power TrainSingle 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.
PSL-NCU Return Parts 6/19
Jun 2026
Visibility/WiperDear 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.
LI82.85-P-080507
May 2026
Electrical SystemComplaint 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.
LI82.30-P-059239
May 2026
Visibility/WiperComplaint There are several types of complaint about noises or poor windshield wiper wiping performance: A: Wiper blades squeaking, chattering, shuddering B: The windshield is not wiped completely (streaking) C: During the downward movement water is pulled back onto the...
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
LI54.65-P-080132
May 2026
Electrical SystemComplaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached diagnostic guide.
LI82.10-P-078301
Apr 2026
Exterior LightingComplaint 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.
LI54.65-P-080132
Mar 2026
Electrical SystemComplaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached diagnostic guide.
LI54.65-P-080132
Feb 2026
Electrical SystemComplaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached diagnostic guide.
LI82.10-P-078307
Feb 2026
Exterior LightingComplaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp.
LI82.10-P-078896
Feb 2026
Exterior LightingComplaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp.
NCU - 2025090001
Feb 2026
SERVICE CAMPAIGNUnknown Or OtherMercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain subject vehicles, the TIREFIT sealant bottle may not meet specifications. The possibility exists that the sealant bottle may leak or may have otherwise been removed from the vehicle.
LI54.65-P-080132
Jan 2026
Electrical SystemComplaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached diagnostic guide.
LI83.30-P-079850
Jan 2026
Visibility/WiperComplaint Customer states the AC either does not cool/has poor performance or heat is insufficient. Cause Many possible root causes Remedy *Note - This Li does not apply if there are other Li's that apply to your concern OR you have a fault and/or guided test that leads to a...
LI27.19-P-080155
Dec 2025
Power TrainComplaint Oil residue in connector of transmission control unit in dual-clutch transmission models 724.0 and 724.1. Cause As part of the production process, the electrohydraulic controller units are subjected to a function test in an oil bath.
LI54.65-P-080132
Dec 2025
Electrical SystemComplaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached diagnostic guide.
LI54.10-P-078888
Dec 2025
Electrical SystemComplaint The check engine light illuminates or the 48 V message is displayed in the instrument cluster Cause Fault code "P0A7F00" stored in the 48 V battery G1/3 and/or is current. Remedy 1.
LI33.30-P-056665
Nov 2025
Power TrainComplaint Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The clunk is heard once when changing from forward to reverse (and vice versa).
LI27.00-P-077141
Aug 2025
Power TrainComplaint Customer complaints regarding automatic transmission 724.1 (8FDCT & 8FDCT hybrid) For faster, more effective and more targeted diagnosis, Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) has been developed and integrated into XENTRY Diagnosis.
LI33.30-P-056665
May 2025
Power TrainComplaint Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The clunk is heard once when changing from forward to reverse (and vice versa).
NCU-2025040008
May 2025
SERVICE CAMPAIGNElectrical SystemMercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain subject vehicles, the SCN coding in the Belt-driven Starter Alternator (BSA) control unit does not correspond to the latest production specifications.
LI82.10-P-078301
Apr 2025
Exterior LightingComplaint 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.
LI82.10-P-078896
Apr 2025
Exterior LightingComplaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp.
LI82.85-P-079087
Apr 2025
Electrical SystemComplaint A popup is seen on the HU with the message "data connection temporarily not available". Potentially affected functionalities in NTG4.5, NTG5 1.Weather 2.Local Search 3.IP Radio 4.Send2Car 5.Speech Detection Service 6.E-Navigator 7.iHeartRadio 8.Traffic Cams Cause...
LI82.70-P-077433
Mar 2025
Electrical SystemComplaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A.
LI33.30-P-056665
Jan 2025
Power TrainComplaint Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The clunk is heard once when changing from forward to reverse (and vice versa).
LI82.85-P-078473
Nov 2024
Electrical SystemComplaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved.
LI27.19-P-072588
Nov 2024
Power TrainComplaint Transmission control unit Y3/8n4 (fully integrated transmission control unit (VGS)) not listed in quick test and/or no communication possible with VGS.
LI82.10-P-078069
Nov 2024
Exterior LightingComplaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps.
LI82.35-P-078467
Oct 2024
StructureComplaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3.
LI01.20-P-078446
Oct 2024
Electrical SystemComplaint Check engine light on. One of the below fault codes is current in the engine control module (N3/10). P04DB29, P04DB31, P04DB79 Cause Open circuit or high resistance to crankcase vent line contact Remedy 1.
LI82.85-P-078473
Oct 2024
Electrical SystemComplaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved.
LI82.70-P-077433
Sep 2024
Electrical SystemComplaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A.
LI82.10-P-078307
Sep 2024
Exterior LightingComplaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp.
LI82.10-P-078301
Sep 2024
Exterior LightingComplaint Headlamp or 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. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards.
LI82.10-P-078302
Sep 2024
Exterior LightingComplaint Headlamps fogged or droplets forming. Cause Due to its outlet openings, the headlamp is an "open system". This means that acidic gases, moisture, dirt and exhaust gases can penetrate into the headlamp.
LI82.10-P-078304
Sep 2024
Exterior LightingComplaint Headlamps fogged or droplets forming. Cause Due to the housing cover with pressure compensation diaphragm, the headlamps are a "closed system". This means that the headlamps are protected against acid gases, dirt and exhaust gas.
LI82.10-P-078069
Jul 2024
Exterior LightingComplaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps.
LI91.18-P-077075
Dec 2023
SeatsCrease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage • Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). • Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat belt buckle).
LI07.70-P-070763
Nov 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingFault code P06DA00 is found current or stored in engine control unit. Check engine light may be activated. Various causes Up to Model year 2018 Fault code P06DA00 can be disregarded if not activating the check engine light, unless otherwise specified in the guided test.
LI82.85-P-076799
Aug 2023
EquipmentThe Mercedes me connect services cannot be activated. The remote status data does not update. Error in N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES).
LI09.00-P-074093
Dec 2021
Engine And Engine Cooling"MY15+ M278 and M157 Equipped Vehicles with Fault Code ""P023400 – Boost Pressure is Too High"" "
NCU2021090006
Sep 2021
WheelsSpare wheel.
LI35.00-P-072963
Jul 2021
SuspensionVibrations/ humming when moving off or maneuvering with the wheels turned
Launch NCU - 202
Jan 2021
Electrical SystemMercedes-Benz AG (?MBAG?), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz, has determined that on certain Model Year (?MY?) 2013-2017 B-Class, C-Class, CLA-Class, CLS-Class, E-Class, G-Class, GL-Class, GLA-Class, GLC-Class, GLE-Class, GLK-Class, GLS-Class, GT-Class, M-Class, S-Class,...
LI00.20-P-070791
Aug 2020
Electrical SystemImplausible "service due" instrument cluster message, head unit pop-up, or Mmc message
LI20.10-P-060902
Aug 2020
Lane DepartureEngine diagnosis warning lamp activated - Fault code P012800
LI82.85-P-071453
Jul 2020
EquipmentIncorrect time and/or instrument cluster message "SOS, service not activated" and/or Mercedes Me connect services nonfunctional
LI82.10-P-064766
Jun 2020
Exterior LightingLamp unit fogged or droplets forming. Due to the vent openings, the lamp unit is an "open system". This means that acidic gases, moisture, dirt and exhaust gases can penetrate it. This can result in deposits on the diffuser and lens.
LI82.10-P-062049
Jun 2020
Exterior LightingHeadlamps fogged
NCU - HVAC Warra
May 2020
EquipmentTo enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a settlement regarding claims relating to alleged mold and mildew type odors originating from the HVAC system...
P-SC-2020020001
Feb 2020
EquipmentInformation Label on Tire Sealant
LI82.20-P-070189
Jan 2020
StructureRetrofitted front door exit lamps with logo projection flicker
LI49.10-P-064655
Nov 2019
Back Over PreventionSqueaking Noise from Exhaust Gas Flap
SC-2019080019
Nov 2019
SteeringReplace Steering Gear Bolts
LI33 30-P-056665
Aug 2019
SuspensionThrottle lift-off clunking noises at drive shafts of front axle
SC-2018110008
Apr 2019
Electrical SystemUpdate restraint system control unit software
CL- Outside Temp EW
Mar 2019
EngineThe purpose of this letter is to advise you of additional benefits that Mercedes-Benz is providing to you regarding your vehicle ownership.
LI54-18-P-069309
Feb 2019
EquipmentFault message "SRS - Service Required" displayed in instrument cluster and SRS lamp active
LI8285P069318v2
Jan 2019
EquipmentAudio 20: Apple CarPlay displays pixelated image

Showing 60 of 88 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  2. Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
  3. Walk the body slowly in daylight.Panel gaps, rust at the rockers and wheel arches, and cracked trim are this vehicle's structure complaints. Open and close the liftgate or trunk and look at the latch area.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 8 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask the dealer whether the warranty extension on file still applies to this VIN.The manufacturer issued 1 warranty extension for this vehicle (see the service bulletins section). Extended coverage often runs by years or miles from the original sale, and a repair the seller paid for may have been free.
  6. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Mercedes-Benz Cla250 →