Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse 168 facelift A 160, 102 PS, 5-speed automatic (2001–2004)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168 (1997-2004): known problems and buying guide

  A reliable everyday car, but check the underbody, rear springs and automatic gearbox before buying.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Test-drive the automatic gearbox in every gear, forward and reverse, and ask for repair records. ADAC lists the automatic gearbox among common faults. A gearbox with a fault needs a workshop check before you pay.
2. Look under the car with a torch at the door bottoms, the sills and the underbody. Rust there is common (ADAC). Stone chips on the A-pillar rust quickly (AUTO BILD). No dismantling needed.
3. Look at the rear springs from below. Broken springs on the rear trailing arms are easy to see (AUTO BILD). Ask whether the swing-arm bearings were replaced.
4. Listen for rattling over bumps on the test drive. Worn tie rods and stabiliser bearings rattle (AUTO BILD).
5. Read the TÜV report before you buy. AUTO BILD names the rear axle as the main TÜV criticism, and ADAC lists front-axle wear in TÜV findings.
6. Check open recall campaigns by VIN with a Mercedes dealer. Cars built from 09/2000 to 01/2001 had a brake master cylinder recall, so ask whether it was done.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions