Faults:

Anti-roll links worn out at 35000

Rear electric window (Driver Side) broke at 33000.

Sony radio cassette player intermittently cuts out since 27000

Noisy Steering column (I hadn't noticed, but advised by MB Dealer) at 35000.

General Comments:

I've found this car completely reliable during the 3 year warranty period. But after that, and despite low per annum mileage (9K), things are starting to go wrong.

Faults:

Rear Trailing arms replaced at 42,000 miles.

Alarm intermittently malfunctions (goes off) whilst driving the car.

Electric window switches work inconsistently.

Gear lever has jammed in second gear.

Very poor build quality, rattles and squeaks.

General Comments:

Dreadful low-speed ride quality.

Woolly, imprecise steering.

The car has never delivered the sort of economy on longer runs that I've come to expect from a diesel; I typically get 45-48mpg.

Dealer servicing has long lead in times, is (in my opinion) very expensive (main deal major service: £400, independent specialist dealer: £163).

Horrendous depreciation (50% in 18 months)

If this car were built by Hyundai, it would probably be better built, more reliable and cost £8000.

Faults:

Suspension Noises caused by Anti Roll Bar links (Replaced 3 times so far).

Steering Knocks and excessive play (Failed 1st MoT on this) cost £200 to replace.

Rear suspension knocking, Dealer took the car off the road as it was deemed "Dangerous" both rear trailing arms required replacement.

A Rear wheel cylinder failed.

I have a rolling harshness felt through the brakes and steering that starts at exactly 18mph then 36 etc etc sounds and feels like final drive or wheel bearings, but the dealers have been unable to trace it.

General Comments:

The A Class looks good and to a degree it drives well, the diesel is so economical 55mpg all the time.

I was smitten with the A Class when I bought it, but after 3yrs daily use it has deteriorated dramatically.

My last repair bill was over £1100 for a service MoT and the repairs to get it through. Mercedes contributed 50% towards the rear suspension failure, but declined to pay for the steering column.

I am now totally disapointed with MB and the car, it's disgraceful that a car like this should have such problems with it's Suspension Steering and Brakes.

Faults:

Numerous electronic engine management system faults resulting in failure to start & instruments reading wildly.

Gearbox management system failed in transit.

Turbo not re-connected after repair by Mercedes approved body-shop.

Hesitation when pulling away.

Steering column needs replacing still under warranty.

Engine oil leaks from poorly fitted sump plug (twice)

General Comments:

Far too many faults for something as expensive as this was.

Fortunately it was bought on a personal contact plan and will be returned at the end of the contract.

I spurned the larger Renault Scenic for Mercedes reliability and kudos, but ended up having it delivered back to the dealer by recovery vehicles 3 times.