1999 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Elegance review from UK and Ireland

1. The automatic transmission failed three times, once at 70mph in the fast lane of a dual carriageway - narrowly avoided a serious accident there; another time when it was being tested by a mechanic, and the front wheels locked causing the car to skid. The gearbox, including torque converter, was replaced under warranty.

2. A gearbox mounting bolt failed after just 18 months (£150 repair bill, later refunded after I wrote to the MD of Daimler-Chrysler UK)

3. Steering column needed to be replaced at 18,000 miles.

4. Anti roll bar link rods failed at 24,000 miles.

5. Rear suspension packed up at 35,000 miles.

6. Electronic control unit failed at 37,000 miles causing intermittent failures (e.g., car left stranded in the middle of the road whilst attempting to turn right) - and the car failed its MOT because of high exhaust emissions. Cost nearly £900 to fix.

We wanted to buy a classy, reliable and safe small car for my wife. The new A-Class seemed to be ideal, and we eagerly signed up to buy one of the first auto models in the UK - a brand-new, top-of-the-range (for then) model with leather seats, automatic transmission, etc.

We were impressed by the versatility of this little car - and the bodywork still looks like new, after 7 years' of ownership. The car has been great for transporting children and loads - including the occasional IKEA run with front passenger seat and rear seats removed, making a very capacious load-lugger.

Unfortunately, this all comes at a cost. This is the most expensive and unreliable car we've ever owned. After 37,000 miles we've spent nearly £4,000 on servicing and repair bills - and the dealership we've loyally supported all this years have offered us a paltry trade-in of just £3,000.