1.6 / 2.0 turbo petrol (M270)
2013–2019 · petrol · 1595cc · 156hp
Engine codes: M260, M270
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Mercedes Benz GLA X156 1.6 / 2.0 turbo petrol (M270). Check this before you buy used.
The turbo petrols (M270, the same family as the A/B-Class and GLA) give the CLA punchy, economical performance — a modern turbo direct-injection engine with the usual cautions: timing-chain wear on some earlier examples (cold-start rattle check), direct-injection intake carbon over time, and turbo/PCV care. Paired with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch, so check the gearbox for shudder and confirm fluid service. Well-serviced examples are dependable; buy on documented history and a healthy DCT — the CLA250 is the strong pick.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (M260) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
Some early M270 chains/tensioners wear → rattle; check on cold start.
Fix / Workaround: Strict oil; replace chain kit at rattle.
Repair cost: €500–€1300
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
Direct injection → intake-valve carbon over time.
Fix / Workaround: Walnut-blast intake if rough.
Repair cost: €250–€550
Typically appears after: 130,000 km
Dual-clutch needs fluid service; shudder/wear if neglected.
Fix / Workaround: DCT fluid service; diagnose shudder.
Repair cost: €250–€1800
DI intake carbon over time; dual-clutch needs fluid service.
Fix / Workaround: Walnut-blast intake; DCT fluid service.
Repair cost: €250–€1800
Typically appears after: 130,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 150,000 km: Chain + DCT attention.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Cold-start chain rattle check
- ☐DCT fluid + shudder history
- ☐Rough idle = intake carbon
- ☐7G-DCT fluid + shudder history
- ☐Same M270 as A/B-Class/GLA
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mercedes Benz GLA X156 1.6 / 2.0 turbo petrol (M270) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The turbo petrols (M270, the same family as the A/B-Class and GLA) give the CLA punchy, economical performance — a modern turbo direct-injection engine with the usual cautions: timing-chain wear on some earlier examples (cold-start rattle check), direct-injection intake carbon over time, and turbo/PCV care. Paired with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch, so check the gearbox for shudder and confirm fluid service. Well-serviced examples are dependable; buy on documented history and a healthy DCT — the CLA250 is the strong pick.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Mercedes Benz GLA X156 1.6 / 2.0 turbo petrol (M270)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain wear (early), Intake carbon (DI), 7G-DCT clutch (auto), Intake carbon (DI) / 7G-DCT.
Is a used Mercedes Benz GLA X156 1.6 / 2.0 turbo petrol (M270) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.