The CLA is a 4‑door coupe based on the A‑Class platform; petrol/manual examples are normally the lower‑displacement, entry‑level engines and were often specified to be more style than space. Manuals give a more involving drive but expect Mercedes dealer servicing to cost more than mainstream brands — independent MB specialists in Ireland can bring bills down, and rear-seat space and boot height are tighter than a regular saloon.

• Clutch and gearbox: test for slipping, heavy bite point or crunchy shifts (manuals of this age often need a clutch or dual‑mass flywheel attention).
• Synchromesh and gear selection: listen for grinding or whine in 1st/2nd/3rd when cold and under load.
• Engine oil leaks and turbo/intercooler connections (if turbo petrol): check for oil drips under the front end and oily residue around the turbo inlet/outlet.
• Rear seat headroom and boot seals: inspect under the parcel shelf and boot hinges for water ingress or damp staining (CLA’s coupe profile can channel water into seals).
• Electrical items: check the infotainment/COMAND system, reversing camera and parking sensors all work reliably and that steering‑wheel switches respond correctly.