Mercedes GLA Proves More Reliable Than S-Class in Recent Analysis

Mercedes-Benz GLA Surpasses S-Class in Reliability Ratings

Diving into the reliability scores of Mercedes-Benz’s current lineup reveals surprising insights. The GLA-Class, Mercedes-Benz’s smallest SUV, has emerged as the reliability champion, while the flagship S-Class sedan falls near the bottom of the rankings.

Mercedes-Benz‘s 2021-2025 GLA-Class stands out with a stellar reliability score of 9.1 out of 10, a performance based on just seven powertrain complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), compared to the 29 complaints typically reported by similar SUVs of the same age. In contrast, the 2021-2025 S-Class has 28 complaints, significantly higher than the expected 19, and registers a lower reliability score of 6.2, which is almost three points below its predecessor.

Older Models and Complaints

Looking at earlier models, the 2015-2021 C-Class scored a modest 5.9, with the 2015 model alone receiving 197 powertrain complaints. The 2014 CLA fares even worse, with a 4.3 score, the lowest for any Mercedes-Benz model year from 2013 onward.

The reliability scores were drawn from The Weekly Driver’s Database as of November 8, 2026, and reflect the number of complaints per vehicle compared to similarly aged models. A score of 7.0 indicates an average number of complaints, while a score of 8.5 suggests half as many complaints.

Key Insights from the Reliability Database

• The 2021-2025 GLA leads with a score of 9.1, significantly outperforming its peers with only 7 powertrain complaints versus an average of 29.
• The EQB and S-Class are less reliable, with scores of 6.0 and 6.2, respectively. Both have more complaints than expected for their class.
• Among used models, the 2014-2020 S-Class and 2016-2019 GLE score highest with scores of 9.1, making them attractive options for used car buyers.
• The 2015-2021 C-Class amassed 1,282 complaints, equating to 29.4 complaints per 10,000 units built.
• Electric models like the EQB, EQE, and EQS report higher complaint rates compared to their gas and hybrid counterparts.
• The 2020-2025 GLE faces 50 recall campaigns, the most among current models, highlighting potential reliability issues.

Reliability Scores for the Latest Generations

Older Generations for Used Buyers

Model-Specific Reliability

The A-Class, sold from 2019 to 2022, scores 8.6 on 25 powertrain complaints. The 2014-2019 CLA, however, scores a low 5.5, with its 2014 model year alone accounting for 87 complaints. The C-Class and E-Class have varying scores based on the year and engine type, with newer models generally performing better.

Recalls and Consumer Considerations

The July 2026 door-lock recall affects 310,667 vehicles, including models like the A-Class, CLA, and C-Class. The recall addresses a potential issue with the driver’s door lock micro-switch, which may lead to rollaways if the electronic parking brake fails to engage.

Mercedes-Benz filed 27 recall campaigns in 2025, ranking them fourth among 29 brands in terms of recall frequency. Prospective buyers should check for open recalls on any vehicle they consider purchasing.

Choosing the Right Mercedes-Benz

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most reliable Mercedes-Benz model?

The 2021-2025 GLA tops the reliability list with a score of 9.1, followed by the GLB and G-Class, both scoring 8.9. The older 2014-2020 S-Class and 2002-2018 G-Class also score highly.

What is the least reliable Mercedes-Benz?

The 2014-2019 CLA scores the lowest among recent models with a 5.5 score, and the 2015-2021 C-Class follows with a score of 5.9. Of the latest models, the EQB and S-Class score lower at 6.0 and 6.2, respectively.

Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class reliable?

The 2022-2025 C-Class has a score of 8.2, though it’s relatively new on the road. In contrast, the 2015-2021 C-Class scores 5.9, with the 2.0-liter M274 engine accounting for a significant number of complaints.

Are Mercedes-Benz electric cars reliable?

The EQE scores 8.0 among electric vehicles, while the EQS and EQB score 7.3 and 6.0, respectively. However, these models have higher complaint rates compared to gas and hybrid models.

How is the reliability score calculated?

The score measures engine, transmission, and drivetrain complaints filed with NHTSA, per vehicle built, and compares them to similar vehicles. A score of 7.0 indicates average reliability, while 8.5 suggests half the complaints of similar vehicles.