Mercedes A-Class Maintenance Guides - Common Mercedes A-Class Repair Questions Answered
The Mercedes A-Class is a popular sub-compact car that has had various body shapes since it was first launched in 1997. Originally, it was a five-door hatchback and it is still seen as an entry level to a premium marque.
Mercedes A-Class Tyre Pressure
What is the recommended tyre pressure of a Mercedes A-Class?
For an A-Class made between 2012/18, then this tyre pressure guide will help:
What should I do once you see a tyre pressure warning?
The first thing to do when you see a tyre pressure warning light is not to panic. The system is there to alert you with pre-programmed information that at least 20% or 6-7 PSI has been lost from a tyre. You can drive with the warning light illuminated, but you should have the tyre inspected and then repaired or replaced.
How to check a Mercedes A-Class tyre pressure?
There are several ways of checking a Mercedes A-Class tyre pressure and the easiest way is to use an airline gauge at a garage or invest in a handheld gauge you can use at home. Also, most foot pumps have a tyre pressure gauge, but these may not always be accurate.
How do I reset a Mercedes A-Class tyre pressure light?
Should the tyre pressure warning light on the dashboard of your Mercedes A-Class remain illuminated after you have fixed a tyre with low pressure, then you need to reset it. You can do so by accessing the menu on the screen - scroll through to 'Service' menu and then 'Tyre Pressure'. If the light will not switch off, then the tyre pressure warning sensor may be faulty and need replacing.
Find a Mercedes A-Class puncture repair specialist near you to find out if the issue is a fault with the tyre pressure sensor, or you have a puncture.
Mercedes A Class Common Problems
While it's a Mercedes, the A-Class does have some common problems.
Airbags
Owners of A Class models made between September and November 2014 need to be aware that the front passenger airbag may have a fuse installation issue, so it may not deploy in an accident. This will need checking by an expert. There is also an issue with the airbag igniter for models built between July 20 16 March 2017.
Fuel pipe
A common complaint from owners of A Class petrol versions is that there is an intermittent fuel smell. This may lead to the fuel pump and filter being replaced though there are also issues with the high-pressure fuel lines which can break (usually for models built in November 2015).
Steering
Another common fault for older A Class models is the loss of power steering as the electric power steering pump fails (there's a similar problem with older BMW Minis). If you hear the pump running after you switch the engine off, then you need to take your car to an expert to have it fixed or replaced before it burns out the motor and surrounding circuitry.
Suspension
Older A-Class models, those built between 2005 and 2012, had issues with the suspension. If you are hearing noises or have issues with the steering, then have an expert check the suspension to see whether it needs replacing.
Filters
A problem with the diesel particulate filter can lead to it becoming clogged if you are using the A-Class for short journeys. A DPF warning light will appear on the dashboard and the best solution is to take the car onto an open road and drive at speed with higher revs, usually for between five and 10 miles, so the filter will get hot enough to burn off the clogging particles. The warning light should then switch off - if not, then the filter will need manually removing and cleaning or it may be an issued with the DPF sensor.
What are possible problems with a Mercedes A-Class automatic gearbox?
The Mercedes A-Class fitted with an automatic gearbox is subject to problems including:
Being prone to wear and tear
It's important to have your vehicle serviced regularly. Have the transmission fluid topped up or replaced.
Clutch contamination
This may lead to the transmission failing.
Speed sensor
Some models built between 2004 and 2012 also have issues with automatic gearboxes which could be down to a speed sensor issue, particularly if you can't exceed 50 mph.
One of the potential problems with an automatic Mercedes A-Class gearbox, at least for those with the FTC automatic transmission, will be an ‘F’ warning light on the dashboard. Also, gears will feel as if they are struggling into place and this will be an intermittent problem. The issue is a faulty solenoid valve which can be pricey to fix, so it's probably worth shopping around to find an independent expert. If you find that your car has developed a ‘clutch shudder’, this could be the torque converter and a software update may resolve this.
To investigate the squeaking further, get in touch with a Mercedes A-Class brake pads and discs specialist today to get the issue diagnosed.
Why are my Mercedes A-Class Brakes Squeaking?
Brakes are prone to squeaking for a variety of reasons, but when this happens in the Mercedes A-Class the noise can be very loud indeed - particularly when you are braking lightly. It's always a good idea to have a professional look at your brakes should you be concerned.
What does squeaking brakes on a Mercedes A-Class mean?
There could be a range of reasons why the brakes squealing on a Mercedes a class, including:
- Dirt build-up on the brake pads
- The brake pads are worn
- Broken anti-rattle clips
- Lack of brake pad insulation.
Why does a Mercedes A-Class clutch shudder?
Among the potential reasons as to why a Mercedes A-Class clutch will shudder is potentially serious oil leak that has made it way to the clutch housing. It could also be an issue with the torque converter.
What causes a heavy clutch pedal on a Mercedes A-Class?
Should your clutch pedal become heavy to operate, then this is likely to be the slave cylinder and will need a professional for it to be replaced.
Mercedes A-Class Warning Lights
As cars become more technologically complex, the warning lights will warn of problems and some may be very serious and need rectifying immediately.
Why do warning lights appear when I start my Mercedes A-Class?
All of the dashboard lights for the Mercedes A-Class will illuminate when the ignition is turned with some, including the seatbelt and ABS lights switching off before the engine starts. Essentially, the car’s system is checking that everything is okay for the ignition to be turned and the lights then switch off. However, you need to pay attention to any warning lights that may illuminate after you start the car.
What do Mercedes A-Class Warning Lights Mean?
The important warning lights that A-Class owners should be aware of include these that will appear in red:
Engine oil pressure
If this lights up, then you'll need to stop as soon as possible, switch off the engine and check the oil level. If it's low, it needs to be topped up before proceeding. If the light doesn't go out, then you need to call for assistance.
The temperature warning
If this warning light appears, then you'll need to stop as soon as possible, switch off the engine. Allow the engine to cool before checking the coolant level and if it's low then it needs topping up or you have a leak. If it's apparent there is a major leak, you need to call for assistance.
Battery warning
This warning light will illuminate because the battery is not receiving a charge from the alternator or the alternator drive belt has become broken. It may also mean the battery is faulty and needs replacing.
Brake warning light
This may warn you that you have set off with the handbrake still on but if there's low brake fluid, then you need to be aware that the brakes may not function correctly. Beware that your brakes may not work as they normally do.
Airbag warning
The light indicates a fault with one of the airbags and this must be checked by a professional particularly as they may not deploy in an accident.
Power steering warning
If after starting the A Class you find this light remains on, then there may be a power steering failure. Switch off the engine and try again. If the light remains on then you'll need to seek assistance.
If any of these warning lights appear on your Mercedes A-Class, visit our serving and repairs page to find the best garage in your area to diagnose the issue.
Mercedes A-Class Service Intervals
When are Mercedes A-Class service intervals?
For the proper maintenance of your Mercedes A-Class and ensure it is reliable, you'll need to follow the service intervals with particular work being carried out. Models made since 2007 have fixed interval servicing, while those made before having an 'A' or 'B' service. For cars built between 2015 - 18 then Mercedes has a specific service schedule dictated by the car's computer and will include three services a year for the first three years.
10,000 miles
It recommended that a full service is carried out every 10,000 or 12,000 miles for the Mercedes A-Class, or 12 months whichever is sooner. The service will help reduce the risk of a breakdown and maintain the vehicle's value. The service will include a thorough inspection and replacement of fuel and air filters and the power steering fluid will be topped up.
20,000 miles
For some models, the 20,000 miles service is the 'B' service which includes more checks on vital parts.
50,000 miles
If your A-Class has automatic transmission, then the fluid needs changing. The garage may discuss replacing the cambelt.
100,000 miles
Have a major service and discuss what might need replacing.
Mercedes A-Class Engine Oil
What is the best oil to use for a Mercedes A-Class?
The best oil is to choose are those oils that meet the Mercedes-Benz criteria and will have a specification of, for example, MB 229.31 or MB 229.51.
What is the oil capacity for a Mercedes A-Class?
The oil capacity for the Mercedes A-Class, depending on model and year of manufacture, is between 4.5 and 6 litres.
How to reset a Mercedes A-Class oil warning light?
Topping up the oil should see the oil warning light switch off and if it remains on then there may be an oil pump issue. For those cars built after 2013, you can use the menu system, select 'Full Service' and switch off the light from there. If this doesn't work, you will need help from a professional.
What do if a Mercedes A-Class leaks oil?
Should you have an oil leak, particularly a major leak, then it's important that you have a professional check your car to see where the leak is coming from and repair it. Losing oil may damage the engine (which will cost a lot more to fix).
Mercedes A-Class Battery
What kind of battery does a Mercedes A-Class take?
The battery for a Mercedes A-Class is easily available from a range of outlets and firms that fit them. For the diesel, from models from 1998, you'll need a '096' battery. For petrol engines, the battery required is '027'. However, one of the issues when replacing a battery in the A-Class is knowing where it's located, in older models, the battery is either under the rear seat or in the driver's footwell.
What to do if a Mercedes A-Class battery dies?
There are several solutions should your Mercedes a class battery die. Though the best one is to have a professional replace it. You could buy replacement batteries online or pay for someone to fix it. You could also try to jumpstart the car to see whether the engine will turnover.
What does the battery warning light mean on a Mercedes A Class?
Should the battery warning light illuminate on your Mercedes A-Class dashboard, then the system is telling you that the battery is not charging properly. You'll need to deal with this issue because you may not be able to start your car if the battery is not charging properly. The problem may be down to the alternator or you may need a new battery.
Find the best oil change professional in your area to conduct a check of the oil management system for peace of mind.