Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Hatchback
Brand Philosophy W168:
Mercedes-Benz's entry into the premium compact car segment, focusing on safety, innovation, and practicality with its unique 'sandwich' floor concept.
Key Competitors 2002:
Volkswagen Golf, BMW 1 Series (later generations), Audi A3, Ford Focus, Opel Astra
Sandwich Floor Concept:
Engine and transmission mounted low and forward under the passenger compartment floor, enhancing safety in frontal impacts and creating a spacious interior.
Safety Focus:
Pioneering safety features for its class, including high crash test ratings due to the sandwich floor design.
Interior Versatility:
Highly flexible seating arrangements ('Easy-Vario-Plus' system) allowing for numerous configurations, including flat-folding rear seats and removable rear seats.
Models Covered:
All Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W168) models for the 2002 model year
Repairs Scope:
A-Z (all repairs from minor to major)
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to specific product listing for exact count; typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive service manuals
Manual Category:
Service and Repair Manual
Intended User:
Dealership Technicians, Professional Mechanics, Advanced DIY Enthusiasts
Language:
English (typical for global markets; confirm with specific product listing)
Format:
Likely a digital format (PDF) for easy searching and printing; physical copies also possible
File Format Details:
Searchable PDF with clickable links, high-resolution diagrams and illustrations, printable pages.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECU, sensors), powertrain control module (PCM)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (including Sensodrive/ASC variants), clutch, driveline components, drive shafts, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering, steering column), brakes (hydraulic, ABS, ESP), wheels, tires
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, power windows, locks, mirrors, wiper systems
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures, common problems and solutions, diagnostic tools and interfaces (OBD-II)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine repair (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, camshafts), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for various symptoms, sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU testing
Installation And Replacement:
Replacement of components such as alternators, starter motors, radiators, fuel pumps, sensors, interior panels, exterior trim
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects of maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and component overhaul as performed by authorized Mercedes-Benz technicians.
Engine Displacement Options:
Typically 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.7L (Diesel), 1.9L, 2.1L (AMG)
Engine Types:
Inline-4 cylinder, gasoline (M166, M111 families) and diesel (OM668 family)
Typical Horsepower Range:
75 HP to 145 HP (for standard models); AMG version up to 193 HP
Typical Torque Range:
100 Nm to 205 Nm (for standard models); AMG version up to 270 Nm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or common rail direct injection (CDI for diesel)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91+); Diesel fuel
ECU Variants:
Various Bosch Motronic or Siemens engine control units depending on engine and transmission.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automated Manual (ASC/Sensodrive)
Transmission Features:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), compact transverse engine mounting.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MB 235.10 (or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-85)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (for ASC/Sensodrive, specific ATFs apply)
Length:
Approx. 3626 mm (142.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1719 mm (67.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1593 mm (62.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2373 mm (93.4 in)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 390 liters (13.8 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1140 liters (40.3 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1100-1250 kg (2425-2756 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1650-1750 kg (3638-3858 lbs)
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 stars (for early W168 models); subsequent models improved or maintained this level.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Traction Control System (ASR)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones, rigid passenger cell (due to sandwich floor concept)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, with specific intervals dependent on engine type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact details).
Major Service Interval:
Major services usually around 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or 24 months, including checks of transmission, suspension, brakes, and other systems.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5, MB 229.51 (synthetic oils) for gasoline engines, depending on engine variant and service interval. MB 229.51 or MB 228.51 for diesels. SAE viscosity grade typically 0W-30, 0W-40, or 5W-40.
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based coolant, blue color)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (MB part number A0009890807)
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), ignition coils, catalytic converters, clutch wear (manual), transmission control module (ASC).
Potential Electrical Issues:
Occasional issues with window regulators, central locking actuators, and certain sensor failures.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Injectors, glow plugs, and potential issues with the CDI system, especially at higher mileage or if maintenance is neglected.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Renowned for engineering excellence, safety innovation, and luxury vehicles since the late 19th century.
W168 Introduction:
Introduced in 1997 as Mercedes-Benz's first foray into the compact car segment, directly challenging established European rivals.
W168 Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred in 2001, bringing updated styling, improved engines, and revised interior features, affecting the 2002 model year.
Production Period:
1997-2004
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Rastatt, Germany; also some production in other plants depending on market needs.