🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

A-Class

Model Code:

W168

Model Year:

2001

Platform Code:

W168

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact hatchback segment, positioned as a premium entry-level offering.

Uniqueness:

The W168 A-Class was noted for its innovative 'sandwich' floor construction, which allowed for a more spacious interior in a compact footprint and enhanced safety in frontal impacts.

Key Competitors:

Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, BMW 3 Series Compact.

Innovations:

Sandwich floor concept, high seating position, compact yet spacious interior, front-wheel drive.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Vehicle Specificity:

Vehicle specific, not generic

Technician Level:

Dealership technician level

Estimated Pages:

Varies by specific edition, but typically comprehensive (e.g., 1000+ pages for full factory manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshafts, crankshaft), cylinder head service, timing system (belts/chains), cooling system, lubrication system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR), sensors (O2, MAF, TPS), actuators, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., NAG series) service, repair, removal/installation, fluid changes, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets. Manual transmission service (if applicable to specific models).

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials (integrated into transaxle), wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components (modulator, wheel speed sensors), brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, power steering pump, fluid.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, coil springs, control arms, sway bars, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM).

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, seat mechanisms, dashboard, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).

Comfort And Convenience:

Power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, sunroof operation, cruise control.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-ups, tire rotation, brake inspections, battery checks.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and system malfunctions.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) codes interpretation, live data stream analysis, diagnostic scan tool usage, component testing.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full component rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) is standard for digital manuals, allowing for searchability and easy navigation.

Quality:

High-resolution scans or digitally created documents ensuring clear text and diagrams. May include color illustrations for key procedures.

Type:

N/A (for digital format, but if printed, would be spiral-bound or comb-bound for lay-flat use)

Type:

N/A (for digital format, but if printed, would be durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Example:

M166 (e.g., A140, A160, A190)

Engine Type:

Inline-4 cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engines.

Displacement Example A160:

1.6 Liters (1598 cc)

Horsepower Example A160:

102 PS (101 hp / 75 kW) at 5500 rpm

Torque Example A160:

150 Nm (111 lb-ft) at 3000-4000 rpm

Displacement Example A190:

1.9 Liters (1898 cc)

Horsepower Example A190:

125 PS (123 hp / 92 kW) at 5500 rpm

Torque Example A190:

180 Nm (133 lb-ft) at 3400-4500 rpm

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91+)

🔧 Transmission

Type E.G. A160:

5-speed manual transmission

Type E.G. A160:

5-speed automatic transmission (NAG - New Automatic Gearbox)

Drive Layout:

Front-wheel drive

Transaxle Design:

Compact transaxle integrating engine, transmission, and front differential.

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

3626 mm (early models) / 3658 mm (later models)

Width Mm:

1719 mm

Height Mm:

1591 mm

Wheelbase Mm:

2373 mm

Seating Capacity:

5 passengers

Cargo Volume Liters:

Approx. 390 Liters (rear seats up)

Curb Weight Kg Approx:

1070 kg - 1180 kg (depending on model and specification)

🛡️ Safety Features

Euro Ncap Original Assessment:

Initially scored poorly in frontal impact tests due to the sandwich concept, leading to design modifications. Later models and specific safety features improved performance.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esp Optional:

Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags.

Structural Design:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, sandwich floor concept for enhanced crash energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Features:

Optional RDS radio, CD player, cassette player. Higher trims may have integrated navigation systems.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Parking Sensors:

Optional parking assistance systems.

Connectivity Features:

Basic connectivity for the era, likely including phone pre-wiring or optional Bluetooth modules on later models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Typical:

Every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions and oil used).

Major Service Interval Typical:

Service A (minor) and Service B (major) intervals, typically every 30,000 km or 24 months for Service B, involving more extensive checks and replacements.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 or MB 229.3 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, 5W-40)

Engine Oil Capacity Approx:

4.5 - 5.5 Liters (depending on engine)

Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 for automatic transmissions (e.g., ATF 3403-M115)

Coolant Specification:

MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant concentrate)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Engine Mounts:

Wear and tear on engine mounts can lead to increased vibration.

Suspension Components:

Bushings and control arms can wear over time, affecting ride quality and alignment.

Ignition Coils:

Failure of ignition coils can cause misfires and rough running.

ABS Sensor Failure:

ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, leading to ABS warning lights and system malfunction.

Rust Corrosion:

Common in older vehicles, particularly around wheel arches and sills.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury.

Generation Designation:

W168 marked Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact car segment.

Launch Year:

1997

Facelift Year:

2001 (introduced significant updates including more powerful engines, revised styling, and improved safety features)

Production Start Year:

1997

Production End Year:

2004

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen, Rastatt), Austria, Hungary.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Innovation Recognition:

While initially facing criticism, the sandwich floor concept was recognized for its innovative approach to maximizing interior space and safety within a compact vehicle.

Owner Satisfaction:

Mixed, with some owners praising its practicality and Mercedes-Benz build quality, while others encountered reliability issues common to first-generation compacts.

Production Standards:

Manufactured to Mercedes-Benz's rigorous global production and quality standards.