Market Segment:
Compact premium hatchback
Brand Strategy:
Offered Mercedes-Benz's premium engineering and safety in a smaller, more accessible package, challenging traditional segment leaders.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, BMW 3 Series Compact (E36/5), Audi A3.
Design Philosophy:
Sandwich floor concept for enhanced safety and interior packaging, pioneering a higher seating position and innovative interior space utilization.
A210 Evolution Specifics:
Top-tier performance variant of the W168, featuring a larger engine, sportier styling, and upgraded chassis components.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the M111.951 engine (2.1L inline-4), including assembly, disassembly, component inspection, timing, fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic M3.8.3/ME2.1), ignition, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust.
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for the manual and automatic transmissions specific to the W168, including clutch, gearbox, torque converter, valve body, and electronic control modules.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, including drive shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential, and wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including McPherson struts, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, anti-roll bars, and alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic braking system, including front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and brake fluid specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, including steering rack, pump, fluid, and steering column components.
Electrical System:
Complete coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, door mechanisms, hinges, locks, glass, sunroof, bumpers, and interior trim components. Chassis lubrication and rust prevention.
Climate Control:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, including refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and climate control module.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, and associated sensors and control modules.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections, and general inspections.
Engine Repair:
Engine overhauls, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, and camshaft replacement.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission rebuilds, clutch replacement, automatic transmission servicing, and torque converter replacement.
Brake Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake line repair, bleeding the brake system, and ABS/ESP component diagnostics.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, diagnostic scan tools, multimeter usage, and component testing.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex vehicle issues.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, color-coded for ease of tracing.
Depth:
Highly detailed, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes component-specific diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Type:
2.1L (2084cc) Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 83.8 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1 (approximate)
Horsepower:
140 PS (138 hp; 103 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque:
205 Nm (151 lb-ft) at 3000-4250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M3.8.3 / ME2.1)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95 recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 Liters (with filter change)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (or as per ASSYST system recommendation).
Major Service:
Typically around 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 2 years, involving spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, and brake fluid.
Engine Oil:
MB Approval 229.1 or 229.3 (e.g., SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 10W-40).
Coolant:
MB Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (MB Approval 331.0).
Ignition Coils:
Premature failure of ignition coils can lead to misfires and rough running.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in front and rear suspension bushings can result in noise and poor handling.
Window Regulators:
Failure of electric window regulators is a common issue.
Mass Airflow Sensor:
The MAF sensor can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Faults in the EVAP system (e.g., charcoal canister, vent valve) can trigger check engine lights.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, a marque synonymous with luxury, engineering excellence, and safety innovation since its inception.
W168 Introduction:
Launched in 1997 as Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact car segment, a departure from its traditional larger sedans and coupes.
A210 Evolution Launch:
Introduced as a performance-oriented variant, enhancing the appeal of the W168 platform with more power and sportier tuning.
Facelift:
The W168 received a facelift in 2001, addressing some initial criticisms and introducing minor styling and equipment updates.
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Rastatt, Germany; also assembled in other locations depending on market.
