Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse W169
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse W169 is available with 7 engine variants — from 82 to 193 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The Mercedes-Benz A 160 CDI (Diesel, 82 PS) has the OM640 (2.0L Diesel) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
The Mercedes-Benz A 180 CDI (Diesel, 109 PS) has the OM640 (2.0L Diesel) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
The Mercedes-Benz A 200 CDI (Diesel, 136–140 PS) comes with 2 different engines: OM640 (2007–2012, Be Careful) und OM640 (2007–2012, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the A 200 CDI!
The Mercedes-Benz A 150 (Benziner, 95 PS) has the M266 (1.5-2.0L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.
The Mercedes-Benz A 170 (Benziner, 116 PS) has the M266 (1.5-2.0L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.
The Mercedes-Benz A 200 (Benziner, 136 PS) has the M266 (1.5-2.0L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.
The Mercedes-Benz A 200 Turbo (Benziner, 193 PS) has the M266 (1.5-2.0L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Autotronic CVT Gearbox: Failure and Costly Repair The continuously variable Autotronic gearbox fails frequently, often under 100,000 km. Faults in the control unit, drive belt or chain link belt lead to total loss. Repair rarely economical. Symptoms: Judder when pulling away, no forward drive, gearbox fault light, limp mode from 90,000 km | High |
Alternatives
Alfa Romeo Giulietta 940
Kompaktklasse (2010–2020)
Ford C-Max DXA
Kompaktklasse (2010–2019)
Honda CR-Z ZF1
Kompaktklasse (2010–2016)
MINI MINI Countryman R60
Kompaktklasse (2010–2016)
Nissan Leaf ZE0
Kompaktklasse (2010–2017)
Honda Insight ZE2
Kompaktklasse (2009–2014)
Known Problems and Issues
A total of 19 weaknesses have been documented for the Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse W169 (2004–2012) — 11 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. One problem engine: M266 (1.5-2.0L). Typical issues affect Gearbox, HVAC, Rust, Suspension.
A-Klasse (OM640, 2004–2012) — Be Careful: Injectors Leaking — Tar Deposits and Pressure Loss, Timing Chain Rattles — Chain Tensioner Worn, EGR Valve Coked Up and Stuck. Power: 82 PS.
A-Klasse (OM640, 2004–2012) — Be Careful: Injectors Leaking — Tar Deposits and Pressure Loss, Timing Chain Rattles — Chain Tensioner Worn, EGR Valve Coked Up and Stuck. Power: 109 PS.
A-Klasse (OM640, 2007–2012) — Be Careful: Injectors Leaking — Tar Deposits and Pressure Loss, Timing Chain Rattles — Chain Tensioner Worn, EGR Valve Coked Up and Stuck. Power: 136–140 PS.
A-Klasse (M266, 2004–2012) — Stay Away!: CVT Gearbox Loses Drive, Defective Gearbox Control Unit — Fault Codes P0706 / 0722, CVT Autotronic — Push-Belt and Sensor Wear. Power: 95 PS.
A-Klasse (M266, 2004–2012) — Stay Away!: CVT Gearbox Loses Drive, Defective Gearbox Control Unit — Fault Codes P0706 / 0722, CVT Autotronic — Push-Belt and Sensor Wear. Power: 116 PS.
A-Klasse (M266, 2004–2012) — Stay Away!: CVT Gearbox Loses Drive, Defective Gearbox Control Unit — Fault Codes P0706 / 0722, CVT Autotronic — Push-Belt and Sensor Wear. Power: 136–140 PS.
A-Klasse (M266, 2005–2012) — Stay Away!: CVT Gearbox Loses Drive, Defective Gearbox Control Unit — Fault Codes P0706 / 0722, CVT Autotronic — Push-Belt and Sensor Wear. Power: 193 PS.
What to watch out for with the Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse W169 have? +
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Which Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse W169 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse W169 worth buying used? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee