Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car
Target Audience:
Younger buyers, urban dwellers, those seeking premium quality in a compact package.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, BMW 3 Series (Compact), Audi A3.
Unique Selling Points:
Sandwich floor concept for safety and interior space, advanced safety features, premium interior materials, compact dimensions with surprisingly spacious cabin.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the authoritative, factory-level information needed to accurately diagnose, maintain, and repair the W168 A-Class, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Engine:
All gasoline and diesel engine variants, including M166, M266, OM166, OM668 series; engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions (e.g., 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic 5G-Tronic), clutch, gearbox, torque converter, drive shafts, differentials.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation), brake rotors, pads, calipers, lines, master cylinder, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., MacPherson struts front, independent rear suspension), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering rack, power steering system, steering column.
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, ECUs (Engine Control Units), body control modules (BCM), infotainment system wiring.
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, body sealing, rust prevention.
Safety Restraint:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners, accident sensor.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring schematics for diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake fluid flush.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step repair and overhaul instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement.
Installation Replacement:
Guidance on the removal, installation, and replacement of all parts and assemblies, including specialized procedures for key components.
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, critical component clearances, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, and other vital technical data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for electrical troubleshooting and repairs.
Depth:
Complete Factory Level. Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to advanced diagnostics, component overhaul, and complete system rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic strategies, fault code interpretation, and step-by-step troubleshooting guides using factory diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS).
Engine Families:
M166 (petrol), M266 (petrol - facelift), OM166 (diesel - early), OM668 (diesel - later).
Engine Examples:
A140 (1.4L), A160 (1.6L), A170 CDI (1.7L Diesel), A190 (1.9L), A200 (2.0L), A210 Evolution (2.1L).
Horsepower Range:
60 kW (82 PS) to 103 kW (140 PS) depending on engine variant.
Torque Range:
137 Nm to 220 Nm depending on engine variant.
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for diesel engines.
Fuel Grade:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane 91/95/98), Diesel fuel.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km or 12 months (Flex Service System 'ASSYST'). Consult manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years (as per Mercedes-Benz standard).
Spark Plug Interval:
Refer to manual based on engine type (e.g., 60,000-100,000 km for iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1, MB 229.3, MB 229.31 (e.g., 5W-40, 0W-40 synthetic).
Coolant Specification:
MB-Approval 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.3 (or equivalent specified by Mercedes-Benz).
Common Wear Items:
Rear axle bushings, suspension components (control arm bushings, shock absorbers), ignition coils, catalytic converter, rust on certain body panels.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plugs, injection pump issues (OM668), turbocharger problems.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, central locking issues, ABS/ESP sensor faults.
