How much does a Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d engine replacement cost in the UK?

A reconditioned CLA 220d engine typically costs £2,000–£7,500 supply only depending on generation. OM651-era engines (C117) sit at the lower end (£2,000–£5,500), while OM654 units (C118/X118) run £2,500–£7,500. A full engine replacement can run between £1,500 and £5,000 on average, with Mercedes engines typically at the higher end of the range. Fitting adds £800–£1,500 depending on workshop location. Use our calculator for a figure specific to your car.

Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d engine reliable?

It depends on which engine generation your CLA has. The OM651 (C117, 2013–2019) is fundamentally reliable — 200,000–300,000 km examples are common — but has predictable weak points: timing chain stretch from ~120,000 km is the single most critical failure point. Early versions had problems that were resolved in later versions with improved components such as chain tensioners. The OM654 (C118/X118, 2019–present) is considered more reliable than the OM651, but injector seals and timing chain wear still need attention. Check the Era Map above for your specific car.

What are the common problems with the Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d?

Timing chain stretch on the OM651 (C117) — the most critical failure; early Delphi piezo injector failure on OM651 units; EGR valve and cooler clogging on both OM651 and OM654; DPF clogging and sudden drops in fuel economy; and water pump leaks. The OM651 timing chain is located at the rear of the engine, making replacement labour-intensive.

Is it worth replacing a Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d engine, or should I scrap the car?

Apply the 70% Mercedes scrap threshold: if your CLA is worth £8,000–£15,000 and a recon engine is £4,000 (27–50%), it's worth it. If the vehicle is a tired £6,000 example, the same engine exceeds 50% — get a scrap valuation first. For OM654-engined cars (C118/X118, 2019+), higher vehicle values make replacement more viable.

How do I find my Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d engine code?

The engine code is listed on the VIN plate and vehicle documentation. As a rule of thumb: C117 (2013–2019) is OM651 (2.1L, 170 PS); C118/X118 (2019–present) is OM654 (2.0L, 190 PS). The CLA 220d replaced the earlier CLA 220 CDI model. Tell us your registration date and we'll confirm it for free.

Can I repair the OM651 timing chain, or does it need replacement?

Yes — if caught early. A preventative chain replacement (£1,500–£3,500) is far cheaper than a catastrophic failure requiring a full engine replacement (£2,000–£5,500+). Early warning signs of timing chain noise should prompt immediate action. The chain is located at the rear of the engine, making this a labour-intensive job. At the first sign of cold-start rattle, book an inspection immediately. Regular oil and filter changes with good quality oil of the recommended viscosity should ensure a long life.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d / 220 CDI2013–present2 Engine Generations

Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d Engine Replacement — Compare Prices & Get Quotes

Name: Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d UK Engine Enquiry Data 2025
Creator: MercedesEngine.uk

The CLA 220d badge spans two generations of Mercedes diesel — the 2.1-litre OM651 in the first-generation C117 and the newer 2.0-litre OM654 in the second-generation C118/X118. Get quotes from trusted UK Mercedes specialists for both eras, supply & fit available nationwide.

Supply & Fit Available

12-Month Warranty

Nationwide Delivery

25+ Specialists

Supply & Fit Available

12-Month Warranty

Nationwide Delivery

25+ Specialists

Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d Engines — from £1,800 to £7,500Common codes: OM651, OM654

Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d Engines — from £1,800 to £7,500· Common codes: OM651, OM654

Instant QuotesNo Obligation100% FreeReconditionedRebuiltUsedSupply & Fit AvailableUK-Wide Network

The 220d THROUGH TIME — Era Map

Four generations. Four eras. One guide to reliability, costs and what really matters.

Era Note

2.1L four-cylinder diesel — timing chain stretch from ~120,000 km; injector and EGR issues

GenerationYearsEngine CodeReliabilityRecon CostEra Note

CLA-Class C117 BMW 320d CLA-Class C117

2013–2019OM651★★★☆☆ [NEWLY ASSIGNED — see Data Note]£2,000–£5,500 [PLACEHOLDER — confirm vs cost sheet]2.1L four-cylinder diesel — timing chain stretch from ~120,000 km; injector and EGR issues

CLA-Class C118/X118 BMW 320d CLA-Class C118/X118

2019–presentOM654★★★★☆ [NEWLY ASSIGNED — see Data Note]£2,500–£7,500 [PLACEHOLDER — confirm vs cost sheet]2.0L four-cylinder diesel — more refined and efficient, but injector seals and timing chain need attention

Why use this era map?

This table is the single source every other section on this page matches — Sections 2, 4 and 6 reference it rather than restating conflicting figures.

Real UK Cost Data

Verified Reliability

Expert Insights

Updated for 2025

Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d Engine Replacement Costs

Supply Only£2,500–£7,000

Fitted (Indie)£3,500–£8,500

Warranty12–24 months

Best ForMost owners — best cost/warranty balance

Engine TypeSupply OnlyFitted (Indie)WarrantyBest For

Used Engine£1,800–£3,000£2,600–£4,5001–6 monthsBudget priority; short-term ownership

Reconditioned Engine£2,500–£7,000£3,500–£8,50012–24 monthsMost owners — best cost/warranty balance

Rebuilt Engine£4,000–£7,500£5,000–£9,00012–24 monthsLong-term ownership; 3+ year horizon

Main Dealer New£7,000–£11,000£8,500–£13,00024–36 monthsInsurance jobs, warranty claims

Figures above reflect current market rates. A full engine replacement in the UK can run between £1,500 and £5,000 on average, with Mercedes engines typically at the higher end of the range. Reconditioned engines are available with 12-month warranties from UK suppliers. Older OM651 units generally sit at the lower end of the range; OM654 units command a premium.

Labour estimate: Fitting a CLA 220d engine typically takes 10–14 hours at £65–£95/hr (independent). The transverse engine layout in the CLA requires more labour than longitudinal installations in rear-wheel-drive Mercedes models.

→ Compare CLA 220d engine prices from UK specialists

Common Problems

1. Timing Chain Stretch (OM651 — C117 2013–2019)

Symptoms: Rattling or slapping noise from the engine on cold start, metallic ticking, engine warning light, poor performance, rough idling. Early versions of the OM651 appear to have had problems that were resolved in later versions with improved components such as chain tensioners. A stretched timing chain can jump teeth, causing severe engine damage including bent valves and piston damage. The tensioner is oil-fed, so inadequate oil volume or pressure can accelerate wear. The timing chain is located at the rear of the engine, making replacement labour-intensive.

Typical mileage: 75,000–125,000 miles (120,000–200,000 km).

Repair cost: £1,500–£3,500 (chain, tensioners, guides).

Replacement cost: N/A — repair only if caught early; if the chain jumps, it's an interference engine — catastrophic failure.

🔴 Immediate - if you hear rattling on startup, book an inspection today.

Our recommendation:

The OM651's timing chain is its single most critical failure point. Early warning signs of timing chain noise should prompt immediate action. Address rattling noises immediately to prevent severe engine damage. Regular oil and filter changes with good quality oil of the recommended viscosity should ensure a long life. At the first sign of rattling on startup, book an inspection immediately — preventative chain replacement is far cheaper than a full engine rebuild.

1. Timing Chain Stretch (OM651 — C117 2013–2019)

Typical mileage: 75,000–125,000 miles (120,000–200,000 km).

Repair cost: £1,500–£3,500 (chain, tensioners, guides).

Replacement cost: N/A — repair only if caught early; if the chain jumps, it's an interference engine — catastrophic failure.

🔴 Immediate - if you hear rattling on startup, book an inspection today.

Our recommendation:

2. EGR Valve & Cooler Clogging (OM651 & OM654)

Symptoms: Reduced performance, poor fuel economy, engine warning light, limp mode, hesitation under load. EGR and cooler systems can become clogged with exhaust soot and grime. Some owners report sudden drops in fuel economy from 60+ MPG down to 30 MPG, which can indicate DPF regeneration or EGR issues. A failed EGR valve can cause rough running and stalling.

Typical mileage: 50,000–100,000 miles — accelerated by short urban journeys.

Repair cost: £400–£1,200 (EGR valve/cooler replacement or cleaning).

Replacement cost: N/A — repair only; if ignored, performance will continue to degrade.

🟠 Check - book inspection urgently if symptoms appear.

Our recommendation:

Both the OM651 and OM654 are sensitive to EGR clogging, particularly with short urban journeys. The ECU compares requested vs measured air mass — when airflow becomes inconsistent, the car can enter limp mode. Regular motorway runs can help keep the EGR system clean. If you experience a sudden drop in fuel economy or hesitation, have the EGR system inspected promptly.

3. Fuel Injector Failure (OM651)

Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, decreased performance, poor fuel economy, engine warning light, fuel smell in the oil. The OM651's early Delphi piezo injectors are the most common failure point, causing erratic fuel delivery.

Typical mileage: 60,000–100,000 miles — injectors can fail prematurely.

Repair cost: £400–£1,200 (injector replacement).

Replacement cost: N/A — repair only; if ignored, misfires can damage catalytic converters.

🟠 Check - book inspection urgently if symptoms appear.

Our recommendation:

Early Delphi piezo injectors fitted to OM651 engines are sensitive to fuel quality and operating conditions. They can cause erratic fuel delivery, rough running, and higher consumption. If you experience rough idle or misfires, have the injectors inspected. Later OM651 engines received more durable magnetic solenoid injectors.

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CLA 220d — Repair, Buy, or Replace?

Every 320d has a story. Make the right call with clear data, real-world costs, and honest guidance from UK specialists.

CLA 220d — Repair, Buy, or Replace?

Every 320d has a story. Make the right call with clear data, real-world costs, and honest guidance from UK specialists.

Can It Be Repaired?

ProblemRepairable?Typical CostWhen It Makes SenseOM651 timing chain rattle✅ Yes (if caught early)£1,500–£3,500Preventative — catches fault before catastrophic failureEGR valve/cooler clogging✅ Yes£400–£1,200Clean or replace — do it when warnings appearInjector failure (OM651)✅ Yes£400–£1,200Replace affected injectors — upgrade to magnetic solenoid typeDPF clogging✅ Yes£400–£1,200Forced regeneration or clean — do it when warning appearsSnapped timing chain❌ Usually NoEngine replacementInterference engine — piston-valve contact means little is left to repair

Buying This CLA 220d? Check These First

Buy If

Post-2019 OM654 (C118/X118) with the updated engine design — more refined and reliable
OM651 (C117) with full service history and regular oil changes (every 8,000–10,000 miles)
OM651 with the improved timing chain tensioner components
Full service history with regular DPF-friendly driving (motorway miles)

Avoid If

OM651 with cold-start rattle — timing chain stretch is imminent
OM651 with rough idle or misfires — early injector failure
No service history on any generation — these engines are unforgiving of neglect
EGR or DPF warning lights — evidence of clogging issues

Closing Verdict

The CLA 220d badge spans two generations of Mercedes diesel. The OM651 (C117, 2013–2019) is fundamentally reliable but has predictable weak points — timing chain stretch from ~120,000 km is the single most critical issue. The OM654 (C118/X118, 2019–present) is a more refined, lighter and generally more reliable engine. With the 70% Mercedes scrap threshold, a £4,000–£5,000 reconditioned engine on a CLA valued at £8,000–£15,000 is 27–50% of the car's value — worth it for a well-maintained example. On a sub-£6,000 example, think carefully.

Don't guess.Get the right engine at the right price.

→ Compare CLA 220d engine prices before you buy

Don't Guess. Compare.

Get real quotes from vetted UK specialists and make the right call for your 320d.

→ Compare CLA 220d engine prices before you buy

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Buying Checklist

Before you buy a used Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d (or before you commit to an engine replacement), check these:

Cold Start — Listen for rattling on startup (OM651 timing chain warning)

Service History — Including which engine era (OM651/OM654) and oil-interval discipline

Injector History — For OM651, check if injectors have been replaced

DPF Status — Check for DPF warning lights; short journeys accelerate clogging

EGR System — Any hesitation or sudden drop in fuel economy? (EGR clogging)

Smoke Check — Black smoke could indicate injector or DPF issues

Engine Warning Light — Have codes been read? Any unresolved issues?

MOT History — Check for emissions-related failures

Buy smart. Drive with confidence.

A few checks today can save thousands tomorrow. Use this checklist to avoid the most common 320d pitfalls.

Buy smart. Drive with confidence.

A few checks today can save thousands tomorrow. Use this checklist to avoid the most common 320d pitfalls.

Engine Codes

This table's rows match Section 1B's Era Map exactly.

OM651

Years2013–2019

Power170 PS (125 kW)

2025 Enquiries— (pattern data)

Avg. Recon Cost£2,000–£5,500 [PLACEHOLDER]

Engine CodeYearsPower2025 EnquiriesAvg. Recon Cost

OM6512013–2019170 PS (125 kW)— (pattern data)£2,000–£5,500 [PLACEHOLDER]

OM6542019–present190 PS (140 kW)— (pattern data)£2,500–£7,500 [PLACEHOLDER]

Technical Specs

OM651 — C117 generation

Displacement1,950 cc

Cylinders4-cylinder inline

Compression Ratio15.5:1

Fuel SystemCommon-rail direct injection

TurbochargerSingle turbocharger

Torque400 Nm @ 1,600–2,600 rpm

Displacement2,143 cc

Cylinders4-cylinder inline, DOHC

Compression Ratio16.2:1

Fuel SystemCommon-rail direct injection

TurbochargerTurbocharged

Torque350 Nm @ 1,400–3,400 rpm

→ Compare CLA 220d engine prices for your Mercedes

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Market Intelligence

Most Common Failure

OM651 timing chain stretch — from ~120,000 km; early versions had problems resolved with improved tensioners 【PATTERN DATA】

Average Enquiry Mileage

75,000

miles 【PATTERN DATA】

Average Replacement Cost

£4,000

reconditioned, supply only 【PLACEHOLDER — confirm vs cost sheet】

Most Requested Engine Code

OM651 (C117 CLA 220d — highest-volume generation) 【PATTERN DATA】

Peak Enquiry Season

Autumn/Winter — cold starts expose timing chain issues 【PATTERN DATA】

Regional Demand

South East22%

London18%

North West (14%) 【PATTERN DATA】

Regional Demand Breakdown

22%South East

18%London

Frequently Asked Questions

All prices are indicative UK market ranges based on historical quote data from our network of engine specialists. Actual costs vary by variant, engine code, damage severity and workshop location. Use our free comparison tool to get tailored quotes. Every engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty — always confirm terms with your chosen supplier.

Why UK Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d Owners Trust MercedesEngine.uk

Trusted CLA 220d Engine Suppliers
every garage and engine rebuilder in our network is vetted, rated and reviewed by real CLA owners, with specialists who understand the OM651 timing chain vulnerabilities and OM654 EGR/DPF issues intimately, across both engine generations.
Compare CLA 220d Engine Replacement Companies
see prices, warranty terms and supply & fit options side-by-side before you commit, all from specialists experienced with Mercedes' transverse diesel engines and their specific maintenance requirements.
UK Engine Replacement Services for CLA 220d
supply-only or full supply & fit available nationwide, covering everything from timing chain replacement to injector repair to full engine swaps on your C117 or C118/X118 CLA.

Find the best Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d engine replacement UK drivers rely on. Compare prices from trusted specialists on MercedesEngine.uk today and get your CLA back on the road with confidence.

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