Mercedes-Benz A 250
Powerful two-litre turbo from the new compact platform. 7G-DCT or 8G-DCT standard. Strong everyday engine with few known weaknesses.
A 250 4MATIC — Very Strong
165 kW, all-wheel drive and M260 directness: this is the best non-AMG W177. Quick, precise and with genuine driving pleasure.
Engine Weaknesses 5
Known production deficiency: exhaust valve seat inserts and valve guides wear prematurely, leading to leaking combustion chambers. Mercedes extended warranty to 15 years / 241,000 km for model years 2019–2022.
Symptoms: Rough engine running, misfires (faults P0300–P0304), check engine light, power loss, vibration
On the M260 timing chain and tensioner can wear prematurely, especially with long oil change intervals. Affected vehicles show rattling on cold start.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling after cold start, check engine light, camshaft position fault codes
The wastegate actuator on the M260 can open prematurely from spring wear, leading to underboost. Diagnosis possible by pressure-testing the actuator.
Symptoms: Power deficiency under load, P0299 fault code, whistling on acceleration
On the M260 coolant lines and the thermostat housing cover can develop leaks. Mercedes carried out a service campaign (1204P59A93).
Symptoms: Dropping coolant level, coolant smell in engine bay, temperature rise, coolant level fault message
Direct injection without port injection causes carbon deposits on intake valves. Regular walnut blasting every 60,000–80,000 km necessary.
Symptoms: Power drop at part throttle, rough idle, slight hesitation on acceleration
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
On 135,454 A-Class W177 vehicles (production Sept. 2017 – Feb. 2019) the A/C condensate drain hose was not correctly routed. Condensation water could enter the footwell and cause short circuits.
On A-Class W177 with DCT gearbox from the production period January 2018 to March 2020, the gearbox may have been underfilled with oil. Consequence: possible drivetrain failure and increased fire risk.
Defective A/C connections can lead to fire risk. A recall was issued. Affected vehicles should be checked for completion of the recall.
The dual clutch gearbox in the W177 exhibits juddering and rough pull-away between 1,500–2,000 RPM. At high mileages and in urban use the clutch packs wear prematurely. Software updates alleviate the problem but do not resolve it permanently.
The MBUX infotainment system freezes or restarts spontaneously. Navigation, Bluetooth and voice control fail. Software updates usually only temporarily resolve the problem.
The MBUX system in the W177 shows sporadic issues in practice: frozen screen, incorrect traffic sign recognition and Bluetooth connection drops. Software updates are needed; on older vehicles problems are persistent.
Due to the high quiescent current draw of the numerous control units and driver assistance systems in the W177, the starter battery is particularly at risk during short-distance use and seasonally operated vehicles.
Reports & Tests
71 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2018–2025). Most reported: Electrical (24), Other (20), Engine (14).