Cheap Mercedes-Benz CLA Bonnet Strut

The CLA does use gas-charged bonnet struts (also called bonnet lifters or bonnet supports) rather than a prop rod, so you are looking for the right part. There are typically two struts, one on each side, holding the bonnet open when raised. If you are finding conflicting information, confirm with the breaker by giving your full registration.

The first-generation CLA, known internally as the C117, ran from 2013 through to 2019 and received a facelift in 2016 that updated the front-end styling. Bonnet struts mount to the bonnet and inner wing, and whether pre-facelift and post-facelift units interchange is something you should confirm with the breaker against your registration, as subtle changes can affect fitment. Sticking within the same facelift period is the safest starting point.

The 2016 facelift is the key boundary here — front-end components including the bonnet itself can differ between pre- and post-facelift cars, which may affect how the strut mounts and its required length or travel. We cannot state confidently that the struts interchange across this boundary, so please confirm with the breaker using both registrations before purchasing. A breaker will be able to cross-reference the part numbers directly.

Yes — the second-generation CLA, the C118, launched in 2019 and is a completely different platform with a redesigned bonnet, so its bonnet struts are not interchangeable with those from the C117. Always make clear to your breaker which generation you have, ideally by quoting your registration. Mixing parts across generations is one of the most common sources of wasted orders on this type of component.

Trim level does not affect bonnet strut fitment on the CLA — the struts are the same across SE, Sport, AMG Line, and other trim grades within a given generation and facelift period. The bonnets themselves are shared across the range, so you can source a strut from any equivalent trim without concern. Focus instead on matching the generation and facelift period rather than the trim badge.

It is strongly recommended to replace both the NS (nearside) and OS (offside) struts at the same time, as they age together and a strut that has not yet failed is likely to go soon after. Mismatched struts can also cause the bonnet to sit unevenly or not stay open reliably, which is a safety concern. Buying a pair from the same breaker's donor car is ideal, as they will have covered the same mileage and come from the same generation and facelift period.