The Mercedes GLA X156 4Matic cradle / beam / subframe / rear crossmember is a structural component from the category of longitudinal body frame parts and brackets, designed for the vehicle's rear axle. It is responsible for the stable mounting of the suspension and precise guidance of the rear body section in the GLA X156 model with 4Matic drive.
Specifications and technical data
- SKU: A1563500070
- Mark: Mercedes (Genuine OE)
- Condition: Used
- OEM Part Number: A1563500070
- Substitutable numbers: A1563500070, A 156 350 00 70
- Location on the vehicle: Rear
- Category: Frame Rails & Subframes
Purpose and Function in the Drivetrain
The rear suspension crossmember in the Mercedes GLA X156 4Matic plays a crucial role as a load-bearing structural beam to which suspension components, the drivetrain, and body parts are attached. The correct geometry of this cradle ensures:
- stable rear axle guidance when driving straight and cornering,
- maintenance of correct suspension geometry throughout the operating range of the shock absorbers and springs,
- efficient transfer of loads from the wheels to the body, including during 4Matic drive operation.
The precisely manufactured design of the rear crossmember directly impacts the predictable behavior of the car, driving comfort, and the durability of cooperating components.
Construction and Fit for Mercedes GLA X156 4Matic
The rear cradle is designed specifically for the GLA X156 platform with four-wheel drive, meaning full dimensional compatibility with factory mounting points on the body and with suspension and drivetrain components. This ensures:
- preservation of original mounting points for control arms, shock absorber mounts, and other components,
- no need for structural modifications when replacing a damaged beam,
- the rear axle geometry returns to manufacturer-specified values after correct installation and wheel alignment.
This component belongs to the category of longitudinal body frame parts and brackets, emphasizing its importance for the structural rigidity of the rear part of the vehicle.
Benefits of Using an Original Rear Cradle
Choosing an original rear crossmember for the Mercedes GLA X156 4Matic allows for the preservation of manufacturer-intended driving parameters. The most significant advantages include:
- factory fit to the body – no issues with alignment or mounting hole matching,
- appropriate structural rigidity – minimizing unwanted flex and torsion of the rear body section,
- stable rear wheel guidance – beneficial for the operation of safety systems and the 4Matic drive,
- economical repair of the car after a collision by replacing only the beam instead of extensive bodywork.
This solution is particularly advantageous for operating a four-wheel-drive vehicle, where the precision of the rear axle setup affects the operation of the entire AWD system.
Condition, Verification, and Service Application
The offered rear crossmember is a used part, sourced from dismantling, which allows for significant cost reduction in repairs while maintaining the original construction. This type of part is particularly useful in situations such as:
- mechanical damage to the beam after impact with an obstacle or collision,
- correction of rear axle geometry when straightening an existing cradle is uneconomical or technically inadvisable,
- comprehensive suspension rebuild for heavily used vehicles.
Prior to installation, standard service procedures are recommended: checking mounting points, inspecting cooperating suspension components, and final wheel alignment at a professional station.
Related Technical Information and Additional Resources
For owners of four-wheel-drive vehicles, knowledge about the specifics of AWD systems may be useful. A detailed discussion of the 4Matic system's operation and a comparison with other solutions can be found in the article xDrive, 4Matic, quattro or 4Motion – comparison of AWD systems from BMW, Mercedes, Audi and VW, which explains the structural and service differences between individual systems.
If you are also looking for other components from the longitudinal body frame parts and brackets category dedicated to this brand, check out the Mercedes longitudinal body frame parts and brackets available in our store to select the appropriate structural components for your vehicle.
More information on the advantages of using original dismantled components in cars of this brand can be found in the guide used parts for Mercedes – original parts from dismantling, which describes when choosing used parts is technically justified and economically beneficial.
