Segment:
Compact Executive Hatchback
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, Independent Repair Shops, Enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra
Unique Selling Points:
Innovative 'sandwich' floor design for safety and packaging efficiency, compact dimensions with surprisingly spacious interior.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with factory-level repair and maintenance knowledge for the W168 A-Class.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Lighting, Instrumentation, Powertrain Electronics, Body Electronics, HVAC Electronics, Audio System
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Upholstery
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC, Sunroof, Central Locking, Power Accessories
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Special Tools:
Identification and use of Mercedes-Benz specific tools
Torque Specifications:
Torque values for all critical fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.4 Liters (1397 cc)
Horsepower:
82 hp @ 5250 rpm
Torque:
130 Nm (96 lb-ft) @ 2800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91+)
ECU:
Bosch Motronic ME 2.0
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 / 326.0 (Glysantin G48 equivalent)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Grade:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
5-Speed Automated Manual Transmission (AUTO5)
Manual Fluid Type:
MB 235.4 specification (e.g., Pentosin MTF-LT 1 or equivalent)
Automatic Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 specification (e.g., ATF MB 236.10 or equivalent)
Euroncap Rating Original:
4 Stars (for later models, early 1997 models may vary but generally good for the era)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Esp:
Optional (Electronic Stability Program)
Airbags:
Driver Airbag, Optional Passenger Airbag, Optional Side Airbags
Body Structure:
Advanced 'sandwich' floor concept for enhanced occupant protection in frontal impacts.
Audio System:
Factory fitted Mercedes-Benz radio/cassette player, optional CD changer preparation.
Display:
Digital clock and temperature display in dashboard.
Parking Sensors:
Not available on early 1997 models.
Bluetooth:
Not available.
HVAC System:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (Thermatic).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Major Service:
Every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 48 months
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB 331.0 specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 specification (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Common Faults:
Ignition coil failures, Crankshaft position sensor issues, Electronic throttle body problems (on later models), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, Suspension component wear (control arm bushings, ball joints).
Air Filter Part Number:
A166 094 01 04
Oil Filter Part Number:
A000 180 13 09
Spark Plug Type:
NGK BKR6EK (or equivalent with correct gap)
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, renowned for luxury, engineering, and safety since 1926.
Design Philosophy:
Compact, innovative, and safe urban vehicle with unique packaging.
Production Plant:
Rastatt, Germany
