Thinking about fitting a Mercedes CLA-Class W117 Panamericana GT/GTR grille? Swapping the factory grille for a gloss black Panamericana GT/GTR style is one of the quickest ways to sharpen up the front end of your Mercedes CLA-Class W117 (2013 to 2019) without touching the bumper or bonnet. This guide takes you through fitting it properly, from removing the old grille to clipping the new one home.
Tools you'll need
- Trim panel tool or plastic pry tool
- Small flathead screwdriver (for release tabs, if fitted)
- Masking tape
- Lint-free microfibre cloth
- IPA (isopropyl alcohol) or a panel prep wipe
Step 1: Confirm your Mercedes CLA-Class W117 grille fitment
Check your Mercedes CLA-Class W117 matches the exact generation and facelift status listed for the grille, since the surround shape and clip positions change between pre-facelift and facelift models even on the same chassis code. A grille built for the wrong facelift will leave visible gaps around the edge.
Step 2: Remove the factory grille
Working evenly around the perimeter with a trim panel tool, release the OEM push clips one at a time rather than levering hard on a single corner, which is the easiest way to snap a clip or mark the surrounding paintwork. Keep the clips to one side — some kits reuse the factory clips, others include new ones.
Step 3: Clean the grille aperture
Wipe down the surround and aperture with IPA or a panel prep wipe to clear out any dirt, leaves or road grime that's built up behind the old grille. A clean mounting edge is what lets the new grille sit flush rather than standing slightly proud in one spot.
Step 4: Dry fit the new grille
Offer the new Panamericana GT/GTR grille up without clipping it fully home and check the gap line against the bonnet edge and headlights on both sides before committing. It's much easier to adjust its position now than after every clip has seated.
Step 5: Clip the new grille into place
Starting from the top centre and working outward and down, press each mounting point home until you feel or hear it seat, checking as you go that the grille is sitting flush and square. Reconnect any badge, camera or sensor trim that was removed in Step 2 before stepping back to check the finished fit.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Levering hard on one corner during removal instead of working evenly around the perimeter
- Fitting a grille for the wrong facelift, leaving visible gaps around the surround
- Skipping the clean-down, so the new grille doesn't sit fully flush
- Forgetting to reconnect a badge, camera or sensor trim piece before refitting
- Rushing the clip-in step and only partially seating one or two mounting points
FAQs
Does the Mercedes CLA-Class W117 Panamericana GT/GTR grille fit around the badge and front camera?
Most Panamericana GT/GTR grilles for the Mercedes CLA-Class W117 are designed around the standard badge mounting point and common camera positions, but it's worth checking the product listing against your exact spec before ordering if your car has front-facing driver-assist sensors.
Do I need to drill or cut anything to fit it?
No — these are clip-fit replacements that use the factory mounting points, so there's no cutting or drilling involved.
Can I fit this myself, or do I need a professional?
This is designed as a DIY-friendly fitment for anyone comfortable following the steps carefully. If you're ever unsure, a professional detailer or bodyshop can fit it for you.
That's everything you need to fit your new Mercedes CLA-Class W117 Panamericana GT/GTR grille with confidence. Browse our full range of car grilles or head straight to our Mercedes CLA-Class collection to find the right fit for your car.