Used Mercedes-Benz CLA Ignition Barrel

No — the Mercedes-Benz CLA (both the first-generation W117, produced from 2013 to 2019, and the second-generation C118, produced from 2019 onwards) uses a keyless ignition system with a push-button start rather than a traditional ignition barrel. There is no physical barrel for a key to turn on any variant of this model, regardless of engine or trim level. If you're having issues starting the car or with the ignition system, you may be looking for the ignition switch assembly, the EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) module, or the key fob and its associated receiver — confirm exactly which component you need with a breaker against your registration.

On the CLA these are different things — there is no barrel, but there is an EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) unit that controls the start function electronically, and this is the part most commonly replaced when ignition-related faults arise. You may also be looking at the steering column switch cluster or the start button itself depending on the fault. Describe the exact symptom and your registration to the breaker so they can identify the correct component.

Both a 2015 and a 2018 CLA fall within the first-generation W117 (2013–2019), so there is a reasonable chance the EIS or ignition switch components are compatible, but because these are electronically coded parts they typically need to be paired or coded to your vehicle regardless of physical fit. Always confirm compatibility with the breaker against both registrations, and bear in mind that a used EIS unit may require specialist coding before it will operate correctly in your car.

A 2018 CLA is a W117 first-generation car, while a 2020 CLA is a C118 second-generation model (launched in 2019), so these are distinct platforms and their ignition system components are unlikely to be interchangeable. Confirm with the breaker against both registrations before purchasing, as even if a part looks similar the electronic coding and connector configurations may differ between generations.

Trim level does not determine which ignition switch or EIS unit is fitted — the relevant factors are the generation (W117 or C118) and the specific build specification recorded against the VIN. You may find cosmetic differences around the start button area depending on interior trim, but the underlying ignition system components are not trim-specific. Give the breaker your registration so they can cross-reference the correct part number for your exact build.

Depending on your fault, the parts to search for are the EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) module, the steering column switch cluster, the start/stop button, or the key fob and ignition antenna ring — a breaker familiar with Mercedes parts will be able to advise which is most relevant to your symptoms. Quoting your registration and describing the fault (for example, key not recognised, car not cranking, or warning light showing) will help the breaker identify the right part quickly. Never assume a part number from another Mercedes model will cross over without confirming against your specific registration.