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Mercedes-Benz A-class W168 (1997–2004)

3.8/5
Reliability score Average
Email-verified reliability report

Model and generation reliability insights from verified owners. Variants are selected when adding reviews.

4 Verified owner reports

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Most reported affected parts

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No affected parts have been reported yet.

Engine reliability summary

Petrol

Engine Score Reports Common issues
A 140 (82 Hp) (M 166.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 140 (82 Hp) Automatic (M 166.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 160 (102 Hp) (M 166.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 190 (125 Hp) (M 166.990) No reports 0 No issues reported
Show 3 more engines
A 190 (125 Hp) Automatic (M 166.990) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 210 Evolution (140 Hp) (M 166.995) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 210 Evolution (140 Hp) Automatic (M 166.995) No reports 0 No issues reported

Diesel

Engine Score Reports Common issues
A 160 CDI (60 Hp) (OM 668.941) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 160 CDI (60 Hp) Automatic (OM 668.941) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 160 CDI (75 Hp) (OM 668.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 160 CDI (75 Hp) Automatic (OM 668.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
Show 4 more engines
A 170 CDI (90 Hp) (OM 668.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 170 CDI (90 Hp) Automatic (OM 668.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 170 CDI (95 Hp) (OM 668.942) No reports 0 No issues reported
A 170 CDI (95 Hp) Automatic (OM 668.942) No reports 0 No issues reported

Owner reviews

Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

A-Class W168: A Mixed Bag

Hi everyone, I got this car from my parents. Unfortunately, it's not perfect; quite the opposite, it has many flaws. The biggest, in my opinion, is the lack of space inside, it's hard to even have fun in there, haha. The gearbox jolted a bit, and rust started to appear despite me taking exceptionally good care of it! Besides that, I want to mention that I have this model for sale. For photos and more info, check out my Insta! @tajnyromans

Pros: Unique design, Compact size
Cons: Limited interior space, Jerky gearbox, Prone to rust
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

A-Class W168 Review

Overall, I rate this car very well. It was very pleasant to drive, and I was very satisfied with it. Good visibility, very nice dynamics with moderate fuel consumption, a comfortable driving position, and it held the road exceptionally well on factory tires.

Pros: Excellent driving experience, Good visibility, Nice dynamics and fuel economy, Comfortable driving position, Superb roadholding
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

A-Class W168: Solid City Car

Overall, I rate this car a solid 4. I've driven this car for about 10k km, so this isn't a first impression, but an assessment after some time. The car's purpose was city driving and the lowest possible fuel consumption in the city, while maintaining driving dynamics. I bought it simply, without looking for a Mercedes, just searching for a car that was inexpensive and reasonably sound. This car is like that. It's cheap to maintain, doesn't burn much fuel, though it could be less. There aren't too many faults, it has dynamics, and you can get in...

Pros: Solid overall rating, Good for city driving, Low fuel consumption, Maintains driving dynamics, Inexpensive to maintain, Few faults
Cons: Could have even lower fuel consumption
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

A-Class W168: A Durable Companion

I've owned this car for over 20 years and it's mostly positives. It's quiet, easy to park, and surprisingly spacious for its size. My only complaint is the AC failed, and repairs/parts are expensive. Importantly, it doesn't rust at all. Besides the AC, I only had to fix the suspension, but that's normal wear and tear after so long. A big plus is the solid timing chain, which generally doesn't need replacement unless something serious happens.

Pros: Quiet and comfortable ride, Easy to maneuver and park, Surprisingly spacious interior, Excellent rust resistance, Durable timing chain
Cons: Expensive parts and repairs, Air conditioning system can fail

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