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Mercedes-Benz CLA250 loss of power problems

30 of the 453 owner complaints about the Mercedes-Benz CLA250 describe sudden loss of power, most of them for the 2014 model year.

owner complaints
30
worst model year
2014
typical mileage
24,000
Is there a fix? There is 1 recall for this area of the car. See below

By model year

  • 2021
    3
  • 2019
    1
  • 2018
    2
  • 2017
    2
  • 2016
    6
  • 2015
    2
  • 2014
    13
  • 2012
    1

Often reported together

Check engine light 9Stalling 5

Trouble codes mentioned

P052E 1

What owners say

Filed Aug 29, 2026 · Fuel system · TX

Vehicle would unexpectedly stall out while driving at slow speeds or stopped. Car was brought to an independent car shop and it was determined the Fuel pump had started to come apart sending debris into the fuel tank/system causing low fuel pressure. The fuel tank with fuel level sensor and suction jet pump was replaced along with, fuel injectors and other fuel system components. This looks very similar to other Mercedes Fuel system recalls that does not seem to cover the GLA250 but has the same manufacturer parts. the federal safety agency campaign numbers 23V880 and 23V881 represent a massive safety recall issued by Mercedes-Benz USA due to a defective fuel pump The problem: A component inside the fuel pump was made from faulty materials and may fail prematurely. If this happens, the vehicle’s engine may shut off while driving, and the car may lose power.

Filed Mar 11, 2026 · Fuel system · DC

To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to file a formal safety complaint regarding my 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 involving a leaking fuel rail that caused the vehicle to shut down and become unsafe to operate. The failure of the fuel rail resulted in a fuel leak and engine shutdown. A failure within the fuel delivery system presents a serious safety concern, as it can cause sudden loss of power while driving and poses a potential fire hazard if fuel comes into contact with hot engine components. During the repair process, I was informed that the necessary replacement component, Fuel Rail Part Number 2700701995, is no longer being produced by Mercedes-Benz. Because this critical component is unavailable, the vehicle cannot currently be repaired and is therefore undrivable. It is deeply concerning that a safety-related fuel system component for a 2019 vehicle is no longer available. Without access to this essential part, the vehicle is effectively disabled. Additionally, based on the nature of this failure, I believe this fuel rail defect should be included in the recall list for this vehicle. A leaking fuel rail capable of shutting down the engine represents a significant safety risk that may affect other vehicles of the same model. I have attempted to contact Mercedes-Benz Customer Care at [XXX] on seven separate occasions and have left messages requesting assistance, but I have not received a return call. Because this issue involves both a serious fuel system failure and the inability to obtain a critical replacement part, I respectfully request that the federal safety agency investigate whether this defect affects other 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 vehicles and determine whether a recall is warranted. Vehicle Information: Year: 2019 Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: CLA250 VIN: [XXX] Part in Question: Fuel Rail – Part No. 2700701995 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Mar 8, 2026 · Engine · PA

Corrosion of the fuel system (on a Flex Fuel rated vehicle that had used E85 blend regularly) causing sudden loss of power, misfires, lack of acceleration The vehicle experience sudden loss of power, multiple misfires, and potential damage to the engine. Had the vehicle been on the highway or attempting to merge with traffic this could have resulted in an accident See attached dealer diagnosis and replacement of multiple fuel injectors, fuel pump, and fuel rail. The dealer service manager stated (but did not document) that this was probably caused by using E85, despite the fact that the vehicle is rated for E85/flex fuel There were no warnings or indications prior to the incident

Filed Nov 17, 2025 · Engine · PA

I own a 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 with the 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder M270 engine. The check-engine light came on and an OBD-II scan showed fault code P052E / P052E71, which indicates that the valve for crankcase ventilation (PCV / crankcase ventilation valve integrated into the valve cover) has a malfunction and the actuator is blocked. The vehicle is available for inspection and, if the repair is performed, the failed part can be retained. This appears to be the same failure that has been documented by other owners and by Mercedes-Benz on the related M274 engine used in other models (same 2.0L turbo engine family and PCV / crankcase ventilation design, but in a longitudinal layout). For those vehicles, Mercedes has issued technical service bulletins and extended emissions-related warranty coverage for the crankcase ventilation / PCV system, but vehicles like my CLA with the M270 engine are excluded even though they show the same DTCs and failure. In my case, the problem has so far shown up as a check-engine light and stored fault codes, without obvious drivability symptoms yet. However, a blocked or failed crankcase ventilation valve can increase crankcase pressure, cause oil leaks, fuel vapor or oil smells, and potential turbocharger or drivability issues, which may create a safety risk if the problem worsens (loss of power or stalling). The problem has been reproduced multiple times with different OBD-II scan tools. I contacted Mercedes-Benz and was told there are no recalls or warranty coverage for this issue on my vehicle.

Filed Jun 16, 2025 · Transmission · NJ

Component or System That Failed or Malfunctioned: The component that failed was the partial-load ventilation valve, which is part of the engine’s crankcase ventilation system. This valve is responsible for regulating airflow and pressure within the crankcase during partial engine loads. A malfunction in this valve can lead to increased engine pressure, oil leaks, and potential damage to engine components. The component is still available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: The failure of the partial-load ventilation valve put my safety, and that of others, at risk in the following ways: •Engine stalling or reduced power while driving, especially during acceleration, which increases the risk of an accident. •In some cases, oil leakage caused by excess crankcase pressure could lead to engine compartment smoke or a potential fire hazard. •If the engine performance is compromised, it may suddenly lose power on highways or intersections, posing a serious risk. Problem Reproduced or Confirmed: Yes, the issue was confirmed. The technician verified the faulty valve during a diagnostic inspection after I noticed performance issues and warning messages. Inspected by Manufacturer, Dealer, or Others: Yes, the vehicle was inspected Warning Lamps, Messages, or Other Symptoms: Yes, there were warning signs prior to the failure: •Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard. •Engine running rough or hesitating, particularly during acceleration.

Filed Sep 26, 2024 · Electrical, Engine · 76,850 miles · OK

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA250. The contact stated while driving at approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that when the vehicle stalled, an audible chime sounded, and the air bag warning light illuminated, and a RED triangle symbol flashed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the instrument cluster went blank, and the vehicle lost power steering assist. Additionally, the brake pedal was very difficult to depress. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts, and the vehicle returned to normal functionality. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred. The contact drove the vehicle to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred and the vehicle had not taken back to the dealer. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 76,850.

Filed Jun 17, 2024 · Acceleration, Engine · CA

Our car has lost power to accelerate on 4 occasions on the highway. The first instance was in October of 2023, the second instance was in November of 2024 (and was brought immediately to the dealership and they said the fix wasn't available yet), the third instance was in March of 2024 and the most recent incident occurred in June of 2024. For example, the car will be moving at a speed of 60 mph and it will suddenly start flashing lights in the car with a warning signal that the "car is unable to reserve". The car then instantly loses the ability to accelerate and you can push the pedal all the way down and it will not go faster. There is an issue with either the engine, the power train or the speed control, or some combination. The car will not go above 20 miles per hours. These instances have almost caused us to get rear-ended by other vehicles as we suddenly lose the ability to accelerate. It is extremely dangerous and we've been fortunate to be near off-ramps to get off. The problem has been confirmed by Mercedes Dealerships with friends of ours who have experienced the same problem with a different model. They claimed that Mercedes USA had not found a fix yet, but refused to provide us with a loaner car until this death trap of a car was fixed.

Filed Mar 5, 2024 · Acceleration, Fuel system · CA

Date of occurrence: 03/05/2024 Subject: Formal Claim Regarding Traffic Safety Issue with 2021 Mercedes Benz CLA 250 I am writing to formally submit a claim regarding a recent traffic safety incident involving my 2021 Mercedes Benz CLA 250. While driving to my destination, I encountered a sudden loss of power and inability to accelerate. To ensure the safety of myself and other drivers, I activated my emergency lights and cautiously proceeded at a limited speed of approximately 30 mph, accompanied by a strained engine sound. Understanding the potential risks associated with this issue, I immediately pulled over in a safe location and had to drive the vehicle with caution to my home where I then arranged for my vehicle to be towed to the service department. Upon inspection, the service department informed me that the problem stemmed from a software malfunction, for which Mercedes has not yet released an updated version. Given the nature of this incident and the potential safety hazards it poses, I am deeply concerned about the safety of driving my vehicle on the freeway or to any destination. I kindly request your assistance in addressing this matter promptly and ensuring the necessary steps are taken to rectify the software malfunction. Please let me know the next steps in the claims process, any additional documentation or information required, and the estimated timeline for resolution. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to a swift resolution. Thank you.

Filed Aug 16, 2023 · Fuel system · CA

Subject: Urgent Safety Concern Regarding Recall Campaign #2022030003 for 2016 CLA250 VIN# xxx Date: August 16, 2023 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to express my deep concern and dissatisfaction regarding a recent incident involving my 2016 CLA250, VIN# xxx, which has raised serious safety issues for both myself and my passengers. Between July 15, 2023, and August 14, 2023, I experienced a distressing loss of power while commuting to work. The incident occurred while I was traveling in the high-speed lane on the highway, almost resulting in a major accident that could have led to severe injuries or even loss of life. During this period, the check engine light on my vehicle illuminated and subsequently turned off. Fearing for our safety, I promptly sought a vehicle diagnostic assessment at the Firestone Service center on August 15, 2023. The diagnostic codes returned indicated a "Fuel/Rail Low Power" issue. To my dismay, I learned that a recall (Campaign #2022030003) had been issued by the manufacturer for the exact problem I encountered. With this information in hand, I diligently contacted the local Mercedes dealership to address the recall. However, I was informed that my vehicle's VIN# was not included in the recall list. This contradicts the diagnostic assessment carried out by Firestone, which clearly indicated the need for intervention due to the "Fuel/Rail Low Power" issue. Given the alarming circumstances and the potential risks associated with this safety concern, I implore you to investigate and rectify this situation promptly. It is evident from the diagnostic results obtained from Firestone that my 2016 CLA VIN# xxx should be included in the recall list to ensure the safety of all occupants. I trust that the federal safety agency plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the well-being of motorists and passengers across the nation. I kindly request your urgent attention to this matter to prevent any further incide

Filed Jun 5, 2023 · Transmission · WA

2018 CLA250 30k miles, leaving the airport the car suddenly felt as if it lost power and slowed un-commanded. It then began to operate normally for the 50+ mph drive home. Upon reaching my neighborhood, the car began to make a clunking, popping sound when under load less than 30 mph. The days after the vehicle continued to experience the same issues every time it was driven. I took the car to a local trusted mechanic and he said it’s the rear differential and most likely failed pre-maturely and it’s not work he can do. He said a rear differential failing with 30k miles would be extremely rare and recommend I reach out to the manufacturer to have it replaced and to keep him updated as to how Mercedes handles this. After taking it to Mercedes of Bellevue the service adviser said this is common on CLAs and GLAs since 2014. Even to the point saying he has a GLA and hasn’t had the issue yet luckily. After speaking to the service manager at Mercedes of Bellevue and asking him directly if he has ever heard of a rear differential failing with less than 30,000 miles on the car he said “no”. After bringing my car in the service advisor said “yes, he has have seen a lot fail to the point i worry about it” as he has the same rear differential in his car. My car is 10 months out of time warranty but 20,000 miles under the mileage warranty. Looking online on the CLA250 owners forum this does seem to be a common issue on CLAs, GLAs and other models that use this rear differential.

Related recalls

Engine and engine cooling: engineReported October 16, 2015 · 857 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (Mercedes-Benz) is recalling certain model year 2015 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, and 2016 SLK300 roadster vehicles manufactured July 17, 2015, to August 31, 2015. The affected vehicles have intake or exhaust camshafts whose welds may fail and possibly cause engine damage.
Risk
Engine damage may result in a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected camshafts, free of charge. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 9, 2015. The recall began on December 23, 2015. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz customer service at 1‑800‑367‑6372. Mercedes-Benz's number for this recall is 2015100006.

Recall number 15V662000 · Recall details

Questions about the Mercedes-Benz CLA250 loss of power

Which Mercedes-Benz CLA250 years have sudden loss of power problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2014 (13 complaints), 2016 (6 complaints) and 2021 (3 complaints).

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