Segment:
Compact premium hatchback, known for its innovative sandwich floor concept and compact dimensions
Target Audience:
Urban dwellers, younger demographic, individuals seeking premium quality in a smaller package
Competitors 2003:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, BMW 1 Series (emerging)
Innovation:
Sandwich floor design for enhanced safety and interior space optimization
Safety Focus:
High safety standards, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz vehicles
Design:
Distinctive and modern exterior and interior styling
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Model Coverage:
All 2003 Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W168) models
Repair Scope:
A-Z comprehensive repairs
Estimated Page Count:
Typically 800-1200+ pages (exact count not provided, but indicative of comprehensive factory-level data)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual
Language:
English (standard for most official Mercedes-Benz manuals)
Format:
Digital (e.g., PDF, often with searchable text and diagrams)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, repair, diagnostics, clutch, driveline, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, parking brake
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, seals, interior trim, glass replacement
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, diagnostics
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement (with extreme caution and specific procedures), seatbelt mechanisms
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, fault codes (DTCs), diagnostic tool usage
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component replacement, system overhauls, adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Tools:
Procedures for using specialized Mercedes-Benz diagnostic equipment (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS) may be referenced or explained conceptually
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for certain procedures
Engine Code Example:
M166 (e.g., 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.7L, 1.9L, 2.0L petrol variants) and OM668 (e.g., 1.7L diesel variants)
Petrol Options:
A 140, A 160, A 190, A 210 Evolution (details vary by market)
Diesel Options:
A 170 CDI, A 200 CDI (common rail diesel)
Displacement:
1.9 Liters (1998 cc)
Horsepower:
125 PS (92 kW) at 5600 rpm
Torque:
180 Nm (133 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for petrol, Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI) for diesel
Catalytic Converter:
Standard feature with OBD-II monitoring
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AUTO-5 SPEED) - known as 'Softouch' or 'Sequentronic' depending on specific iteration and market
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific MB approval (e.g., MB 235.10 or similar GL-4 specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific MB approval (e.g., MB 236.10 or similar ATF specification)
Length:
Approx. 3626 mm (142.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1720 mm (67.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1593 mm (62.7 in)
Curb Weight Example A190:
Approx. 1270 kg (2800 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult manual
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 390 liters (13.8 cu ft), expandable with folding rear seats
Euro Ncap Rating:
4-star rating (achieved in earlier testing, reflects strong safety for its class)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esp:
Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard; optional side airbags
Crash Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, front and rear crumple zones, innovative sandwich floor design contributing to crash protection
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 1 year, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions and specific engine oil used; consult manual for exact intervals and service indicator reset procedure)
Major Service Interval:
Around 45,000 - 60,000 km (28,000 - 37,000 miles) or 2-3 years, including inspection of various components and fluid changes
Engine Oil Type:
Mercedes-Benz approval 229.5 (e.g., 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic) for petrol engines, 229.51 or 229.52 for diesel engines (check manual for exact specifications based on engine and emissions standards)
Coolant Type:
MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, typically ethylene glycol-based with silicate inhibitors, color-coded blue/green or brown depending on specific approval)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB-Approval 331.0 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; often MB-Approval 343.0 or similar Pentosin CHF 11 S
Engine Idling Issues:
Can be related to MAF sensor, spark plugs, ignition coils, or vacuum leaks
Automatic Transmission Shifting Problems:
Issues with the Softouch/Sequentronic system, control modules, or solenoids
Suspension Noise:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, or sway bar links
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, age-related issues with sensors, wiring harnesses, or the CAN bus system can occur
Diesel Glow Plugs:
Glow plug failure can impact cold starts on CDI models
Manufacturer:
Mercedes-Benz, renowned for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury
Introduction Year:
1997 (first generation W168)
Facelift:
Facelifted model introduced in 2001, with styling and equipment updates
Manufacturing Location:
Rastatt, Germany (primary facility), and potentially other contract manufacturing sites
Generation 1 W168:
1997-2004
Safety Awards:
The W168 A-Class was recognized for its innovative safety features and strong crash test performance for its era
Consumer Reports Historical:
Specific ratings vary by year and market, but often praised for build quality and safety, with some attention to minor issues like sensors or electronics
Manufacturing Standards:
Produced under stringent Mercedes-Benz quality control and manufacturing standards