1999 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Summary:

Even if it's given to you, get rid of it

Faults:

Car can start first time for 1-2 weeks, then for no apparent reason, the car just fails to start. No dash lights come on at all, and the car seems dead. I have checked the battery and that appears to be fine. Why oh why buy one?

General Comments:

LEMON. After reading all the problems that others have had, I am at my wits end wondering why anyone would buy one. Maybe I should be grateful, that SO far, I only have this one problem, but the biggest issue is, I have no idea what is causing it!! Has anyone had a similar problem??

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 23rd March, 2011

2002 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Elegance 1.6

Summary:

Stands out from the crowd

Faults:

Warning light at 25000. Needed computer check to clear it.

Squeak in suspension spring.

General Comments:

This is the Elegance LWB model, and has been a reliable daily commuter.

Great room for passengers and cargo.

Quality feel to the build.

I have enjoyed my time with the A class, and remain very happy.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st May, 2010

17th Jun 2010, 23:33

I have 2 one - manual gearbox with normal clutch - has 215,000kms and the other one -AKS- has 85,000kms. Both have been wonderful, without any trouble, and they are running as first day. Just normal service.

For the AKS I have a tip for you: just don't stay at red lights with first gear engaged, it is easy to forget; and don't break the car in hills with the accelerator, and you will be fine. The normal clutch is more durable, of course - maybe because of how people drive them. I had to change the normal one at approx. 165,000kms, the AKS one I haven't changed it, although it has a lower mileage.

The automatic A classes from that generation do have some troubles, but manuals are fantastic, very rugged.

Cheers.

26th Feb 2011, 02:41

Thanks for that support as a fellow A-Class owner. A mechanic told me not to use gears to decelerate too. Just on coming up for 64K soon and may be looking at replacing the original tyres - Michelin Energy - soon. These are no longer sold, so will need to look around (any suggestions?). Still a very happy owner - car running smoothly and not a hiccup as a great little 'around town car'.

In reply to 26th Feb 2011, 02:41

2nd Apr 2012, 07:13

Still going strong at 71k. Reliable commuter that never misses a beat. Just changed tyres - first change - stuck with Michelin - Pilot Sports 3. Great match with nil road noise and superb handling (and safety if you follow all the performance tests). What's not to like!?

In reply to 2nd Apr 2012, 07:13

12th Mar 2014, 02:59

Still thumbs up from me! Now just over 83K and the only work required was replacing the front passenger seat belt sensor. Not inexpensive!

Otherwise it continues to be a superb reliable daily commuter.

Lots of new cars to look at, but I just can't think of a reason to switch on any reasonable grounds!

2000 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 160 petrol

Summary:

It is a car; that's it

Faults:

I have had the steering column replaced 5 times.

Thing's breaking in the car; plastics etc..

Can't list the problems; there are so many.

Very disgusted; thought I was buying a good car instead a lemon.

Cost of repairs is huge!

Very disappointed!

General Comments:

This car is far less superior than any other small car, because of all the faults and design problems.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th December, 2007

12th Dec 2007, 16:38

My mechanic told me not to buy one of these cars, as they are expensive to fix, and are always going wrong.

26th Dec 2007, 11:51

My experience is completely the opposite. This are reliable and well constructed cars, with very durable components.

27th Dec 2007, 08:20

I agree with the review. My year 2000 A160 was a menace needing frequent warranty repairs. Plastic interior parts would break off with virtually no effort (like the front seat height adjustment handles). Finally when the timing chain snapped at 67,000km I had had enough and sold it.

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