Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Executive Car (Premium Compact)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Innovative 'Sandwich Concept' floor, advanced safety features for its class, premium Mercedes-Benz engineering in a compact package.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, BMW 3 Series Compact (E36/5), Audi A3 (8L).
Sandwich Concept:
Engine and drivetrain mounted low and forward under the floor, creating a very safe passenger cell in a frontal impact and maximizing interior space.
Safety Focus:
Designed with an emphasis on occupant protection, featuring a very strong safety cell.
Aerodynamics:
Notable for its aerodynamic design, contributing to fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI/CDI), starter system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox assembly, shifting mechanisms, final drive
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), gear selection, hydraulic system, transmission fluid service
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (torsion beam/multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Steering column, steering gear, power steering system (hydraulic/electric), tie rods, steering linkages
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and diagnostics, brake fluid, hydraulic lines, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, wipers and washers, horn, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, underbody protection
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and fill, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, electrical faults, transmission problems, brake system malfunctions, HVAC issues
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuilding, cylinder head gasket replacement, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, starter/alternator replacement
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation, sensor testing, actuator testing
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Full factory-level detail, covering diagnostics, component removal/installation, overhaul, and precise specifications
Engine Families:
M166 (petrol), OM668 (diesel)
A140 Petrol:
1.4L (1397cc) Inline-4, 82 PS (60 kW; 81 hp)
A160 Petrol:
1.6L (1598cc) Inline-4, 102 PS (75 kW; 101 hp)
A190 Petrol:
1.9L (1898cc) Inline-4, 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp)
A170 Cdi Diesel:
1.7L (1689cc) Inline-4 Turbo Diesel, 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp)
A160 Cdi Diesel:
1.7L (1689cc) Inline-4 Turbo Diesel, 75 PS (55 kW; 74 hp)
Torque A160:
150 Nm (111 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm
Torque A190:
170 Nm (125 lb-ft) at 4400 rpm
Petrol Injection:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Diesel Injection:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI) for OM668 engines
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first (typical for this era, refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)
Major Service Interval:
Every 60,000 km or 3 years (includes spark plugs, fuel filter, etc.)
Engine Oil Grade:
Refer to manual, typically MB 229.1 compliant oils, e.g., 5W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent, blue/green color)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil, e.g., 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MB 236.10 or 236.12 specification, e.g., ATF Dexron III / Mercon equivalent
Coil Spring Breakage:
Can occur over time, especially on front springs.
Rear Axle Bushes:
Wear in rear axle control arm bushings can lead to knocking noises and alignment issues.
Window Regulators:
Electric window regulator mechanisms can fail.
ABS Sensor Failure:
Wheel speed sensors for ABS can fail, illuminating the ABS warning light.
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade, causing increased vibration.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury vehicles dating back to the late 19th century.
W168 Introduction:
The W168 A-Class was a significant departure for Mercedes-Benz, marking their entry into the premium compact car segment. It was first unveiled in 1997 and launched in 1998.
Initial Challenges:
Early models faced criticism, notably a tendency to roll over in moose-test evasive maneuvers, leading to a recall where ESP was made standard and suspension revised.
Production Period:
1997-2004 (W168 generation)
Manufacturing Plant:
Rastatt, Germany; also produced in South Africa.