Mercedes-Benz A 160
Modular four-cylinder turbo of the first compact platform generation. Known for timing chain stretch and thermostat issues. Adequate power up to 156 hp.
Solid Entry Point
75 kW is enough for daily use — the W176 has a significantly better chassis than its predecessors, but the weak engine prevents it from flourishing.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The sealing ring on the camshaft adjuster solenoid fails. Oil creeps by capillary action through the wiring harness and destroys lambda sensors and the ECU. Repair €1,700–€4,000.
Symptoms: Lambda sensor fault codes, engine stumbling, CEL. In later stages multiple electrical faults simultaneously, ECU coated with oil
M270 engines with manufacturing date July–September 2015 have a defective weld seam on the camshaft lobe. Camshaft can break → engine damage. Recall with free replacement.
Symptoms: Sudden engine noise, power loss up to engine stall. Only vehicles with production date July–September 2015 affected
The electrically-controlled thermostat on the M270 fails frequently and is difficult to access at the rear of the engine. Replacement costs 800–1,300 EUR at Mercedes workshops.
Symptoms: Engine does not reach operating temperature of 80°C, coolant temperature fluctuates, fault code P0128
M270 camshaft adjusters wear from 100,000–130,000 km and generate rattling noises on cold start. Revised adjusters fitted from 2014 onward.
Symptoms: Brief rattling or clattering after cold start from engine bay, disappears after warm-up
The electronically controlled thermostat on the M270DE16 fails frequently and throws fault code P0128. Engine fails to reach operating temperature or overheats sporadically. Repair at Mercedes €800–€1,000.
Symptoms: Temperature gauge stays low or fluctuates, CEL, increased fuel consumption, fault code P0128
Direct injection without port injection causes carbon deposits on the M270 intake valves. Cleaning by walnut shell blasting required.
Symptoms: Hesitation at part throttle, rough idle, slight power loss, elevated fuel consumption
Ignition coils on the M270DE16 fail sporadically and cause misfires in individual cylinders. Engine runs roughly, CEL illuminates.
Symptoms: Stumbling and rough engine at low revs, CEL flashing or permanently lit, cylinder-specific misfire fault codes
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
Recall due to defective windscreen bonding. In an accident the screen may detach and occupant protection cannot be guaranteed. Affects vehicles up to July 2013.
Xenon headlights of early model years permanently mist up internally. A complete xenon headlight costs over €1,000. LED headlights of facelift models (from autumn 2015) significantly more robust.
Certain condenser batch has defective welds and loses refrigerant. Replacement costs €1,200 including labour. Recall for A/C as fire risk known.
Early infotainment system (COMAND) of pre-facelift version freezes, starts slowly or crashes. Collision warning PRE-SAFE triggers false emergency braking. Software updates required.
According to MOT reports, indicators and hazard warning lights fail more than average on the W176. Defective relays or control units are usually the cause.
Plastic trim panels in the interior, panoramic roof and boot cover produce annoying creaking and rattling noises. Cheap interior for the brand's level is a common criticism.