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Mercedes-Benz · Known Issues

2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Problems & Issues

2019-2025 model years · 3,300+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,300+ owner reports, the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has 22 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are A/C Drain Hose Water Ingress into Footwell (Electrical/SRS Damage) ($0-$1,200 repair), Front Axle Integral Carrier Corrosion (Steering Loss Risk) ($0-$1,500 repair), M260 Exhaust Valve Seat / Valve Guide Wear Causing Misfire and Cylinder Head Replacement (15yr/150k Warranty Extension) ($0-$7,000 repair), Driver Front Airbag Module Not Properly Bolted to Steering Wheel (Recall 19V685) ($0-$0 repair), Driver Door Lock Micro-Switch Corrosion Disables Auto-Park Brake (Rollaway Risk) ($0-$0 repair) and M260 Fuel Rail / Injector Seal Particle Contamination Causing Fuel Leak (Recall 21V961) ($0-$1,800 repair). The most commonly reported issue is MBUX Infotainment Software Bugs with 1,500 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $30 to $7,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • A-Class Safety/Recalls3
  • A-Class Electrical5
  • A-Class Steering2
  • A-Class Engine2
  • A-Class Fuel System1
  • A-Class Transmission1
  • A-Class Cooling1
  • A-Class Exterior1
  • A-Class Exhaust1
  • A-Class Suspension1
  • A-Class HVAC1
  • A-Class Brakes1
  • A-Class Interior1
  • A-Class Emissions1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Safety/Recalls3
  • Electrical5
  • Steering2
Engine
2
  • Fuel System1
  • Transmission1
  • Cooling1
  • Exterior1
  • Exhaust1
  • Suspension1
  • HVAC1
  • Brakes1
  • Interior1
  • Emissions1
  • FAQ
  • All 22 Known Issues

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    ALL YEARS2025202420232022202120202019

    Early-production 2019-2020 A220 and A220 4MATIC (along with the 2020 CLA250 and several GLC variants) left the plant with driver's front airbag modules whose retaining bolts may not have been tightened to specification. In a frontal crash the module could shift or detach from the steering wheel during deployment, so the airbag may not protect the driver as designed. NHTSA campaign 19V685 covered 2,222 vehicles in the US; the same defect was addressed by a workshop campaign in other markets. There is no warning before a crash, although a few owners reported a rattle from the steering wheel hub.

    Common Symptoms

    • No warning before a crash
    • Occasional rattle from the steering wheel hub/airbag cover
    • SRS warning is NOT normally triggered by this defect

    How to Fix

    Free recall remedy under 19V685000 (began October 29, 2019): the dealer inspects the driver airbag module fastening and replaces the module if the bolts are found loose or missing. Check the VIN on NHTSA's lookup; a rattle from the steering-wheel center on a 2019-2020 car should prompt an inspection even if the recall shows as completed.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    The micro-switch inside the W177 driver's door lock uses a housing that does not meet Mercedes' moisture-robustness requirement (a supplier manufacturing deviation). Humidity permeates the plastic housing and corrodes the switch contacts, so the car no longer detects the driver's door opening. Because the electronic parking brake's 'Auto-Park' logic relies on that door-open signal to apply the brake when the driver exits with the transmission in D, a failed switch can leave a vehicle unsecured. Mercedes tracked 176 US field cases between 2020 and June 2026; owners usually first notice comfort functions misbehaving, most commonly the radio/MBUX staying on after they exit and lock the car, or the interior lights not reacting to the door. NHTSA recall 26V481 covers 310,667 vehicles across the A-Class, CLA, GLA, GLB, C-Class, GLC and CLE (2019-2026).

    Common Symptoms

    • Radio or MBUX stays on after exiting and locking the car
    • Interior lights do not come on or go off when the driver's door opens
    • Electronic parking brake does not apply automatically when the driver door is opened in Drive
    • 'Door open' warning missing or inconsistent
    • Seat-belt or key warnings behave as if the door never opened

    How to Fix

    Free recall remedy under NHTSA campaign 26V481000: an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer replaces the driver's door lock with a unit meeting the moisture-robustness requirement. Dealers were notified July 31, 2026 and owner letters mail on or before September 18, 2026; owners who paid for a door-lock repair before the recall can apply for reimbursement. Until the repair is done, always shift to P and apply the parking brake manually rather than relying on Auto-Park. Outside the US the same lock is fitted, so European owners with 'radio stays on after locking' symptoms should ask the dealer to check the driver door lock (Türschloss) under the corresponding campaign.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    NHTSA recall 21V-354 covers 2019-2021 A220 and 2020-2021 A35 AMG vehicles whose MBUX display may remain black or reboot, interrupting the rearview image. Recall 22V-232 covers 2019-2020 A220 and 2020 AMG A35 vehicles whose rearview-camera software may fail to display the image within the FMVSS 111 requirement. These are distinct software conditions under the same accurate indexed camera identity.

    Common Symptoms

    • black or rebooting MBUX display with rearview-image interruption
    • rearview image absent after reverse is selected
    • camera-software update directed by an open campaign

    How to Fix

    Check the VIN for open campaigns 2021050012 and 2022060007. The 21V-354 remedy is a dealer or OTA MBUX software update; the 22V-232 remedy is inspection and, if necessary, update of rearview-camera software. Do not buy a camera or head unit from this page; both remedies are software/VIN controlled unless separate diagnosis proves hardware failure.

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    The air conditioning condensate drain hose may not be installed to specification, allowing water to drain into the driver/passenger footwells or center tunnel instead of overboard. Pooled water corrodes and short-circuits electrical control modules in the floor area (SAM, fuel pump control unit, occupancy/SRS sensors). This is NHTSA recall 20V416000 (MB campaign 2020070013), but owners also report wet carpets and module faults outside the recall range.

    Common Symptoms

    • Wet front footwell carpet
    • Window misting/condensation
    • Intermittent electrical faults
    • SRS/airbag warning light
    • No-start
    • Limp-home mode activation
    • Musty smell in cabin

    How to Fix

    Covered by recall: dealer inspects A/C drain hose installation and corrects routing, installs a water drain plug, and replaces the fuel pump control unit if water-damaged, free of charge. For non-recall water ingress: re-route/replace the drain hose (part A1678323600), dry the carpet/insulation, and replace any corroded modules.

    Find a Mercedes-Benz dealer

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    Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,200

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    The W177's telematics communication module (HERMES) has been the subject of two US safety recalls plus several service bulletins. Under 21V058 (2016-2021 vehicles) the module's software could report an incorrect vehicle position to the emergency call center after a crash. Under 22V365 (2017-2022 vehicles built Aug 2016-Feb 2022, 1,655 A-Class among 254,000 total) a security mechanism in the SIM card software could trigger and permanently drop the mobile-network connection, disabling both automatic and manual eCall. Owners see a sporadic 'SOS nonfunctional' message in the instrument cluster (TSB LI82.85-P-076800), wrong clock time (LI82.85-P-071453) and Mercedes me connect services that will not activate or lose remote functions (LI82.85-P-071637, LI8285P073418). The MBUX display bugs already documented in this catalog are a different, head-unit-side problem; this issue is the cellular module.

    Common Symptoms

    • 'SOS nonfunctional' or 'Emergency call system malfunction' message in the cluster
    • Mercedes me connect / remote app services cannot be activated or stop working
    • Clock shows the wrong time after start-up
    • Vehicle location shown incorrectly or navigation position implausible
    • eCall/SOS button does nothing when pressed

    How to Fix

    Both recalls are free: for 22V365 and 21V058 the communication module software is updated over-the-air on cars with an active Mercedes me connection, otherwise at the dealer, and the module is replaced if the update cannot be applied. Owners seeing a persistent 'SOS nonfunctional' warning after the recall has been marked complete should have the dealer check for the newer OTA communication-module campaigns from December 2023 and January 2024 (NCU-OTA Comm Mod), and confirm the SIM has been reactivated.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    The W177 carries a small auxiliary/backup battery (behind the passenger-side dash trim, not in the engine bay) that supports the electronic shifter, start-stop and MBUX during voltage dips. It has a short service life, and when its capacity falls the cluster shows 'Auxiliary battery malfunction' while start-stop stops working. Separately, the main AGM battery on early cars is chronically undercharged: the smart alternator only charges to about 80% in normal driving, and the MBUX head unit, communication module and keyless system draw high standby current, so cars left 3-4 days (or driven only on short trips) go flat or refuse to start. Mercedes issued TSB LI54.10-P-071832 'Vehicle cannot be unlocked / vehicle does not start' with a battery message, LI54.10-P-071499 on Xentry battery-tester disagreements, and multiple MBUX/communication-module software updates to reduce quiescent current. NHTSA complaints on the 2019 A220 include a 738-mile car that would not restart at a fuel station until the battery was disconnected and reconnected.

    Common Symptoms

    • 'Auxiliary battery malfunction' message in the instrument cluster
    • ECO start/stop no longer engages (symbol stays amber)
    • Battery flat after 3-4 days parked or repeated short trips
    • Vehicle will not unlock with keyless or will not start; battery-related message
    • Intermittent no-crank that clears after disconnecting/reconnecting the battery

    How to Fix

    For the 'Auxiliary battery malfunction' message, replace the small backup battery (Mercedes part is a ~12V 1.2Ah sealed unit; $30-$95 DIY, $250-$450 at a dealer) and clear the fault. For drain/no-start: have the dealer apply the current MBUX and communication-module software (some were OTA), test the main AGM battery under load rather than trusting the Xentry tester alone, and replace it if under ~70% health; fit a CTEK-type maintainer if the car sits more than a few days. A main AGM battery for the W177 runs $300-$500 installed and must be registered/coded.

    Typical repair cost:$30 - $500

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    The A250e (W177/V177 with the M282 1.3L plus 75 kW electric motor, sold 2020 onward outside North America) has a recurring owner complaint that AC charging stops part-way: the charge cable's status light flashes red, the car shows a 'charging malfunction' message, and the traction battery is left well short of the expected range. A-Class Club members report the fault appearing intermittently at home wallboxes and public posts, cars that will not charge past roughly 80-90%, and dealers replacing the supplied charging cable/ICCB, updating the on-board charger and battery-management software, or in a few cases replacing the on-board charger. Some owners also note the displayed 100% state of charge dropping quickly with light driving. The problem is specific to the plug-in hybrid drivetrain and does not affect the petrol or diesel A-Class.

    Common Symptoms

    • Charging stops part-way with a red flashing light on the charging cable
    • 'Charging malfunction' or 'charging error' message on MBUX
    • Battery will not charge to 100%
    • Displayed electric range drops rapidly after a full charge
    • Charging works on one charger but not another

    How to Fix

    First rule out the supply side: try a different EVSE/wallbox and check the earth and phase balance, since the on-board charger is sensitive to supply faults. If the fault persists, have the dealer read the charging-system fault memory and apply the latest on-board charger (OBC) and battery management software; several owners had the ICCB charging cable replaced under warranty. Out of warranty, an on-board charger replacement is a $1,500-$3,000 repair; battery cell-balance faults are covered by the 8-year/100,000-mile high-voltage battery warranty.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $3,000

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026
    Community reported
    1,500 owners

    The MBUX infotainment system suffers from frequent software bugs including touchscreen lag, voice assistant failures ("Hey Mercedes" not responding), Bluetooth disconnects, and navigation freezes. The A-Class was the first Mercedes model with MBUX and received early software that was less polished.

    Common Symptoms

    • Touchscreen lags or becomes unresponsive
    • Hey Mercedes voice assistant does not respond

    How to Fix

    Visit a Mercedes dealer for the latest MBUX over-the-air update. Factory reset the MBUX system (Settings > System > Reset). Re-pair all Bluetooth devices from scratch after the update.

    Owner tips & cautions

    • TipCheck for MBUX updates quarterly. Mercedes pushes silent OTA updates but they sometimes require a dealer visit to install major version changes.
    Typical repair cost:$0 - $500

    Research This Issue

    Based on 1,500 owner reports

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    Community Reported
    High Confidence1,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Dec 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

    The integral carrier (front subframe component) that supports the front axle can corrode due to a manufacturing defect in which the parts did not receive proper corrosion protection. If the carrier corrodes severely it can fail, which may result in a loss of steering control. This is a NHTSA safety recall (campaign 21V990000) affecting A220 sedans in particular. It is distinct from the routine front strut/suspension noise complaints.

    Common Symptoms

    • Vague or loss of steering control
    • Clunking from front of vehicle
    • Visible corrosion on front subframe/integral carrier
    • Recall notice received

    How to Fix

    Covered by recall: an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer inspects the integral carrier and replaces it as necessary, free of charge. Owners with a VIN in the affected range should contact a dealer to confirm whether the remedy has been performed; out-of-recall vehicles showing corrosion need subframe/integral carrier replacement.

    Find a Mercedes-Benz dealer

    Choose to share your location for this search, or enter an area below. Your search location is sent to Google to find dealers.

    Open Mercedes-Benz dealer map in Google Maps ↗

    Call to confirm they service Mercedes-Benz vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,500

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    The W177's electric power steering column is the subject of a cluster of Mercedes service bulletins: LI46.10-P-077314 'Noises in the steering column area when steering', LI46.10-P-077313 'grinding noises between steering wheel and steering column' (steering column switch module/clock spring contact), LI46.35-P-074816 'squeaking noise from area of input shaft of electric steering', LI46.15-P-070510 'noises from the area of the steering column', and LI46.35-P-075129 'vibrations in steering at speeds lower than 30 mph'. Owners describe a dry rubbing or grinding felt through the rim when turning at parking speeds, a knock when reversing or braking to a stop, and a shudder in the wheel at low speed that dealers first blame on tyres or wheels. A-Class Club threads (including A35/A45 cars on large wheels) and a 2024 NHTSA-filed bulletin on knocking from the steering gear/column tube confirm the pattern; several owners had the column or switch module replaced under warranty. This is separate from the front-axle carrier corrosion recall and the strut-noise issue already catalogued.

    Common Symptoms

    • Grinding or rubbing noise between the steering wheel and column when turning at low speed
    • Knock or clunk from the steering column when braking to a stop or moving off
    • Squeak from the electric steering input shaft
    • Steering wheel vibration or shudder below 30 mph
    • Noise worsens in cold weather

    How to Fix

    Have the dealer reproduce the noise and apply the matching bulletin: lubricating or replacing the steering column switch module/contact spiral for grinding at the wheel, replacing the steering column or intermediate shaft for knocks, and updating the EPS software (part of later steering campaigns) for the sub-30 mph vibration before any wheel/tyre work. Under warranty these are free; out of warranty a steering column switch module is roughly $400-$800 and a steering column assembly $1,200-$2,000 fitted.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $2,000

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    On the M260 2.0L four-cylinder turbo used in the A220, A250 and A35 AMG (and the CLA250, GLA250, GLB250), the exhaust valve seat rings and valve guides can wear prematurely so that the exhaust valves no longer seal. The result is a loss of compression on one or more cylinders, rough idle and misfire codes, and in advanced cases a rattling/ticking top end. Mercedes-Benz USA acknowledged the defect in August 2023 with an Emission Warranty Extension (document MC-10241534-0001, TSB 'ELW-ExhaustValve') covering 2019-2022 A-Class, CLA, GLA and GLB with the M260, extending coverage on the exhaust valve system to 15 years/150,000 miles. Owners on MBWorld and A-Class Club report dealers replacing the complete cylinder head under the extension, and UK A35 owners have documented loss-of-compression diagnoses on the same engine. This is separate from the M282 1.3L intake carbon issue: the M282 is a different (Renault co-developed) engine and does not share this valve-seat defect.

    Common Symptoms

    • Rough idle and misfire, especially cold
    • Check engine light with cylinder misfire codes
    • Low compression on one or more cylinders in a leak-down test
    • Loss of power, hesitation under load
    • Ticking or rattling noise from the cylinder head

    How to Fix

    Free repair within 15 years/150,000 miles for US 2019-2022 cars under the MBUSA exhaust-valve warranty extension: the dealer performs a leak-down/compression test and replaces the cylinder head assembly (valves, seats, guides) as needed; owners who paid for this repair before the extension can claim reimbursement with documentation. Outside the US or outside the extension, a replacement cylinder head on the M260 is a $4,000-$7,000 job, so any persistent P0300-P0304 misfire on a low-mileage M260 should be compression-tested before spending money on plugs and coils.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $7,000

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    The 1.3L turbocharged direct-injection M282 engine (co-developed with Renault, used in A180/A200) suffers carbon deposit buildup on the intake valves and ports because direct injection does not wash the valve backs with fuel. On urban/short-trip duty cycles deposits accumulate from roughly 60,000 miles, causing rough running and hesitation.

    Common Symptoms

    • Rough idle
    • Hesitation at 1500-2500 rpm
    • Reduced fuel economy
    • Flat/sluggish acceleration
    • Misfire under load

    How to Fix

    Walnut-shell media blasting of the intake valves/ports, typically recommended every ~50,000-60,000 miles. Using top-tier fuel, periodic intake/induction cleaning, and avoiding constant short trips slows buildup. A quality oil meeting the MB spec helps limit blow-by contribution.

    Typical repair cost:$300 - $700

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    On certain 2019-2020 A220 and A220 4MATIC (M260 2.0L turbo) built in a narrow window, a foreign particle could be trapped between the fuel rail and the fuel injector during assembly, damaging the sealing surface. Under high-pressure direct-injection operation the damaged seal lets fuel weep into the engine compartment, where it can reach hot engine or exhaust components. Mercedes filed NHTSA recall 21V961 (MBUSA campaign 2022030003) in December 2021; the A220 population was small (about 139 vehicles, ~5% estimated defective) but the same defect also covered the 2020 CLA250 and GLB250 and the A35 was named in the UK/EU equivalent. Owners reported a fuel smell at idle or after parking in a warm garage before any visible drip.

    Common Symptoms

    • Raw fuel smell in or around the engine bay, especially at idle or after a hot soak
    • Fuel residue or wetness around the fuel rail and injector bosses
    • Check engine light for fuel-pressure deviation in some cases
    • Visible drip under the engine after parking

    How to Fix

    Free recall remedy under 21V961000: the dealer replaces the fuel rail and all four fuel injectors. Any A220 owner smelling raw fuel under the hood should check the VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup and, if the car is not in the population, have the fuel rail-to-injector joints inspected for wetness; out of recall, a rail-and-injector job on the M260 runs roughly $900-$1,800 at a dealer.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,800

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    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026
    Community reported
    1,200 owners

    The 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission develops a shudder during low-speed acceleration, similar to driving over rumble strips. The clutch packs overheat in stop-and-go traffic, causing judder and vibration during engagement.

    Common Symptoms

    • Shudder during 1st-2nd gear acceleration
    • Vibration at low speeds similar to rumble strips

    How to Fix

    Update the DCT software to the latest calibration. In persistent cases, the clutch assembly may need replacement. Avoid prolonged creeping in traffic — use the brake instead of riding the clutch at low speed.

    Owner tips & cautions

    • TipUse Sport mode or manual mode in heavy traffic. This delays upshifts and keeps the DCT from hunting between 1st and 2nd gear, reducing clutch wear.
    Typical repair cost:$200 - $3,000

    Research This Issue

    Based on 1,200 owner reports

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    Community Reported
    High Confidence1,200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

    The 1.3L M282 engine develops coolant leaks at the integrated thermostat housing/gasket and at the water pump and coolant hoses, commonly in the 55,000-70,000 mile range. A failing thermostat housing causes temperature gauge fluctuation, coolant loss, and slow cabin heating; if ignored it can lead to overheating. Coolant leaks are repeatedly cited as one of the most common cooling-system issues on A 250/A 200 owners.

    Common Symptoms

    • Coolant warning / low coolant level
    • Temperature gauge fluctuation
    • Overheating
    • Slow cabin heat-up
    • Sweet smell / coolant puddle under car
    • Visible coolant residue at front of engine

    How to Fix

    Replace the complete OEM thermostat housing assembly (it is plastic and integrated, so the full unit is required), inspect/replace water pump and coolant hoses, then refill and bleed the cooling system with the correct MB-spec coolant. Address promptly to avoid overheating damage.

    Typical repair cost:$350 - $900

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    Two separate headlamp non-compliance recalls hit the W177 in the US. Under 21V509 (2019-2020 A220 and other models) LED headlamps that had been replaced during a repair carried an incorrect data-matrix code, so the aiming/light-intensity setting programmed into the lamp did not match the vehicle and beam output could fall outside FMVSS 108 limits; Mercedes' remedy was to replace the headlamp units. Under 23V662 (2022 A220, GLA250 and AMG GLA35) the headlights left the factory incorrectly adjusted. In both cases the practical symptom is a beam aimed too low (poor forward visibility) or too high (glare to oncoming drivers) that a normal aiming screen may not fully correct because the lamp's internal coding is wrong. Separately, TSB LI82.10-P-064766 covers W177 lamp units fogging or forming droplets, a frequent goodwill/warranty replacement on 2019-2020 cars.

    Common Symptoms

    • Low beam appears aimed too low or too high after a headlamp replacement
    • Oncoming drivers flash at you with dipped beams on
    • Poor illumination distance at night
    • Condensation or droplets inside the headlamp lens (separate TSB)

    How to Fix

    21V509000: free replacement of the affected LED headlamps at the dealer (interim letters August 2021, final notification January 2022). 23V662000: free inspection and re-aiming of the headlights. Owners with condensation inside a headlamp should ask for a replacement under warranty citing LI82.10-P-064766; out of warranty a W177 LED headlamp is roughly $1,200-$2,000 per side plus coding.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $2,000

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    On diesel A-Class models (A180d/A200d/A220d, OM608/OM654 engines) driven mainly on short, low-speed urban trips, the DPF cannot reach the high exhaust temperatures needed for passive regeneration. Soot accumulates, the DPF/engine warning light illuminates, and the car can enter limp mode with a stored 'soot content too high' fault. A very common complaint among EU-spec city-driven diesels.

    Common Symptoms

    • DPF / engine warning light
    • Limp mode / reduced power
    • Increased fuel consumption
    • Frequent regeneration cycles
    • Excessive smoke
    • Fan running after stop

    How to Fix

    First remedy is a sustained highway run (15-30 min at higher rpm) to trigger active regeneration. If that fails, a workshop performs a forced/static regeneration via diagnostics. Severely clogged filters require professional DPF cleaning or replacement. Maintaining EGR valve, turbo, and injectors and using correct spec diesel reduces recurrence.

    Typical repair cost:$250 - $800

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
    Community reported
    600 owners

    The front MacPherson struts develop a clunking or knocking noise over bumps and rough surfaces. The strut mount bearing wears prematurely, and the strut itself can develop internal valving noise. More common on vehicles with AMG suspension.

    Common Symptoms

    • Clunking noise from front over bumps
    • Knocking when turning at low speed

    How to Fix

    Replace the front strut mount bearings first ($100-200 per side). If the noise persists, replace the strut assemblies. Use OEM or Sachs (OEM supplier) replacement struts for proper ride quality.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Genuine Mercedes-Benz 247-323-00-20-64 front upper strut mount
      OEMMercedes-Benz 247-323-00-20-64

      Upper mount branch after movement, tearing or mount-generated noise is confirmed Fitment/availability: The inspected direct product page identifies genuine 247-323-00-20-64 for the W177 A220 front axle, left or right, with two required p…

      ECS Tuning
    • Genuine Mercedes-Benz 247-333-05-00 driver-side front bearing element
      OEMMercedes-Benz 247-333-05-00

      Driver-side bearing branch for an A220 without variable damping Fitment/availability: The direct OEM retailer page identifies 247-333-05-00, fits 2019-2022 A220, and showed $20.74, Ships in 1-2 Business Days and Add to Cart.

      MBPartsGiant
    • Genuine Mercedes-Benz 247-333-06-00 passenger-side front bearing element
      OEMMercedes-Benz 247-333-06-00

      Passenger-side bearing branch for an A220 without variable damping Fitment/availability: The direct OEM retailer page identifies 247-333-06-00, fits 2019-2022 A220, and showed $24.40, Ships in 1-2 Business Days and Add to Cart.

      MBPartsGiant
    • Genuine Mercedes-Benz 247-333-11-00 driver-side variable-damping bearing element
      OEMMercedes-Benz 247-333-11-00

      Driver-side bearing branch for an A220 equipped with variable damping Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page identifies 247-333-11-00 as the driver-side metal bearing element, fits 2019-2022 A220, and showed $19.52, Ships in 1-2…

      MBPartsGiant

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Owner tips & cautions

    • TipHave the strut mount bearings checked first — they are the most common cause and cheapest to replace. Most shops go straight to full strut replacement unnecessarily.
    Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,000

    Research This Issue

    Based on 600 owner reports

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    Community Reported
    Medium Confidence600 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

    The W177's in-cabin temperature sensor sits in the overhead control panel and is ventilated by a tiny aspirator fan. That fan and the fine-wire sensor clog with dust, so the climate control believes the cabin is already cooler than the set temperature and stops requesting cooling: the A/C blows warm or barely cool at 16-18 C while the 'LO' setting (which bypasses the sensor) still produces cold air. Because the compressor and refrigerant charge test fine, dealers have misdiagnosed it as low refrigerant or 'user error'; Mercedes issued TSB LI83.30-P-070309 'Air conditioning system occasionally does not cool correctly' for 2019+ A-Class, and UK A-Class Club members have posted a step-by-step fix after finding a chunk of dust on the sensor. Some cars needed the sensor/overhead console replaced. This is distinct from the A/C drain-hose water-ingress issue already in the catalog.

    Common Symptoms

    • Air conditioning blows warm or lukewarm at normal set temperatures
    • Only the 'LO' setting produces cold air
    • Climate control cools normally after a restart then drifts warm
    • Dealer finds refrigerant charge and compressor normal
    • Cabin temperature displayed lower than actual

    How to Fix

    Remove the overhead control panel, clean the aspirator fan and the hair-thin temperature sensor wire with a soft brush or air duster, and refit; several owners report normal climate control immediately afterwards at zero cost. If the sensor or fan is damaged or the fault persists, the dealer replaces the overhead control panel/sensor assembly (about $250-$600) and checks for the LI83.30-P-070309 software/parameter update. Do not accept an A/C regas as the fix when 'LO' already blows cold.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $600

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    2019-2020 A220 vehicles were delivered without the inspection gauge (and matching owner's-manual instructions) required to check rear brake pad wear, so owners and independent shops had no specified way to determine when the rear pads had reached the wear limit. The W177 rear brakes have a wear sensor only on one wheel and the pads are partially hidden by the electric parking brake caliper, which is why Mercedes treated the missing gauge as a compliance defect. Combined with the front-axle brake squeal (TSB LI42.15-P-074455) and the widely reported low-speed squeal on A35 AMG cars, rear pad wear on the W177 is easy to miss until metal-to-metal contact.

    Common Symptoms

    • No inspection gauge in the vehicle tool kit
    • Owner's manual gives no procedure for rear pad wear check
    • Rear pads worn to the backing plate without a dash warning
    • Brake squeal or grinding from the rear

    How to Fix

    Free recall remedy under 23V732000: the dealer installs the rear brake pad inspection gauge in the vehicle and supplies supplemental owner's-manual information. Have rear pad thickness measured at every service; a rear pad and rotor job on the W177 (with EPB retraction) is roughly $400-$700.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $700

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    Interior noise is the single most common W177 owner complaint on the UK and US forums, to the point that an A35 owner sold the car after 21 months describing it as 'two cars welded together'. Sources identified by owners and dealers include the central MBUX display housing (Mercedes issued dealer guidelines to add insulating material behind the screen), the hidden owner's-manual compartment in the glovebox, a loose cable under the dash, the triple centre air-vent cluster, rear seat headrest/fold-down catch play, and the panoramic glass roof rubbing on its seals. Mercedes bulletins cover the rear-shelf crossmember noise (LI64.10-P-075514), peeling B-pillar trim seals on the rear doors (LI72.12-P-074542), stiff/noisy door glass (LI72.00-P-076031) and panoramic roof/rollerblind actuation (LI68.69-P-071522). Multiple owners report the dash being removed by the dealer more than once without a full cure.

    Common Symptoms

    • Rattle or buzz from the dashboard around the central display over rough roads
    • Creak from the panoramic glass roof over bumps or when the body flexes
    • Rattle from the glovebox or the centre air-vent cluster
    • Rear-seat headrest or seat-back catch rattling
    • Peeling B-pillar trim seal on the rear doors
    • Rattle from rear parcel shelf area

    How to Fix

    Under warranty, insist the dealer follow the Mercedes guidance: felt/insulating tape behind the central display and around the vent cluster, foam in the glovebox manual compartment, re-securing the under-dash cable, replacing the peeling B-pillar seals and re-torquing/lubricating the panoramic roof glass and rails. Out of warranty most fixes are DIY felt tape at negligible cost; a persistent panoramic-roof creak is usually cured with dry silicone lubricant on the seals and runners. Budget $150-$500 for an independent trim shop to chase rattles if the dealer will not.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $500

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    On 2019-2021 A-Class (and CLA, GLB, GLE) the fuel system control module (the electronic fuel-pump controller) runs a plausibility check on the low-pressure fuel pressure and fuel temperature sensor. The software specification was wrong, so the module flags fault P146264 ('sensor low fuel pressure and fuel temperature has a malfunction') and turns on the check engine light even though the sensor and pump are healthy. Mercedes first issued TSB LI47.50-P-070263 (December 2020) to reflash the module, then in April 2024 extended the emission warranty on the FSCM software to 15 years/150,000 miles (bulletin 'EW - FSCM SW' / CL-240401). Owners were being quoted fuel pump or sensor replacements for what is a software defect; the extension covers only the software (damage code 47045 90, part A0009026661), not hardware.

    Common Symptoms

    • Check engine light on with no driveability change
    • Fault code P146264 (fuel pressure/temperature sensor malfunction) stored
    • Possible P146364 on the same sensor circuit
    • Emissions inspection failure due to MIL

    How to Fix

    Have the dealer read the fault and, if P146264 is stored, reflash the fuel system control module under the 15-year/150,000-mile emission warranty extension at no cost. Do not replace the in-tank fuel pump or the fuel pressure/temperature sensor for this code until the software update has been applied. Later engine-control updates (LI47.20-P-071172, April 2024, fault P146364) address a related temperature/pressure sensor plausibility complaint and are applied at the same visit.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $250

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026
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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the most common Mercedes-Benz A-Class problems?

    According to Au7o's analysis of 3,300+ owner reports, the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has 22 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: A/C Drain Hose Water Ingress into Footwell (Electrical/SRS Damage), Front Axle Integral Carrier Corrosion (Steering Loss Risk), M260 Exhaust Valve Seat / Valve Guide Wear Causing Misfire and Cylinder Head Replacement (15yr/150k Warranty Extension). Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

    Is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class reliable?

    The 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has 22 known issues documented across 3,300+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: A/C Drain Hose Water Ingress into Footwell (Electrical/SRS Damage) and Front Axle Integral Carrier Corrosion (Steering Loss Risk) and M260 Exhaust Valve Seat / Valve Guide Wear Causing Misfire and Cylinder Head Replacement (15yr/150k Warranty Extension) and Driver Front Airbag Module Not Properly Bolted to Steering Wheel (Recall 19V685) and Driver Door Lock Micro-Switch Corrosion Disables Auto-Park Brake (Rollaway Risk) and M260 Fuel Rail / Injector Seal Particle Contamination Causing Fuel Leak (Recall 21V961). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

    How much does it cost to fix common Mercedes-Benz A-Class problems?

    Repair costs for known Mercedes-Benz A-Class issues range from $0 to $7,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, A/C Drain Hose Water Ingress into Footwell (Electrical/SRS Damage), typically costs $0-$1,200 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

    What year Mercedes-Benz A-Class is the most reliable?

    Reliability varies across model years of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz A-Class with 22 documented issues documented across 3,300+ owner reports.

    What is the 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class A/C Drain Hose Water Ingress into Footwell (Electrical/SRS Damage)?

    The air conditioning condensate drain hose may not be installed to specification, allowing water to drain into the driver/passenger footwells or center tunnel instead of overboard. Pooled water corrodes and short-circuits electrical control modules in the floor area (SAM, fuel pu… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.

    What is the 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Front Axle Integral Carrier Corrosion (Steering Loss Risk)?

    The integral carrier (front subframe component) that supports the front axle can corrode due to a manufacturing defect in which the parts did not receive proper corrosion protection. If the carrier corrodes severely it can fail, which may result in a loss of steering control. Thi… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class M260 Exhaust Valve Seat / Valve Guide Wear Causing Misfire and Cylinder Head Replacement (15yr/150k Warranty Extension)?

    On the M260 2.0L four-cylinder turbo used in the A220, A250 and A35 AMG (and the CLA250, GLA250, GLB250), the exhaust valve seat rings and valve guides can wear prematurely so that the exhaust valves no longer seal. The result is a loss of compression on one or more cylinders, ro… Repairs typically run $0-$7,000. Severity: high.

    What is the 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Driver Front Airbag Module Not Properly Bolted to Steering Wheel (Recall 19V685)?

    Early-production 2019-2020 A220 and A220 4MATIC (along with the 2020 CLA250 and several GLC variants) left the plant with driver's front airbag modules whose retaining bolts may not have been tightened to specification. In a frontal crash the module could shift or detach from the… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Driver Door Lock Micro-Switch Corrosion Disables Auto-Park Brake (Rollaway Risk)?

    The micro-switch inside the W177 driver's door lock uses a housing that does not meet Mercedes' moisture-robustness requirement (a supplier manufacturing deviation). Humidity permeates the plastic housing and corrodes the switch contacts, so the car no longer detects the driver's… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class M260 Fuel Rail / Injector Seal Particle Contamination Causing Fuel Leak (Recall 21V961)?

    On certain 2019-2020 A220 and A220 4MATIC (M260 2.0L turbo) built in a narrow window, a foreign particle could be trapped between the fuel rail and the fuel injector during assembly, damaging the sealing surface. Under high-pressure direct-injection operation the damaged seal let… Repairs typically run $0-$1,800. Severity: high.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class DCT Transmission Shudder?

    The 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission develops a shudder during low-speed acceleration, similar to driving over rumble strips. The clutch packs overheat in stop-and-go traffic, causing judder and vibration during engagement. Repairs typically run $200-$3,000. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Rearview Camera Blank / No Image (FMVSS 111 Non-Compliance)?

    NHTSA recall 21V-354 covers 2019-2021 A220 and 2020-2021 A35 AMG vehicles whose MBUX display may remain black or reboot, interrupting the rearview image. Recall 22V-232 covers 2019-2020 A220 and 2020 AMG A35 vehicles whose rearview-camera software may fail to display the image wi… Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class M282 Thermostat Housing / Coolant Leak?

    The 1.3L M282 engine develops coolant leaks at the integrated thermostat housing/gasket and at the water pump and coolant hoses, commonly in the 55,000-70,000 mile range. A failing thermostat housing causes temperature gauge fluctuation, coolant loss, and slow cabin heating; if i… Repairs typically run $350-$900. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class M282 1.3L Intake Valve Carbon Buildup?

    The 1.3L turbocharged direct-injection M282 engine (co-developed with Renault, used in A180/A200) suffers carbon deposit buildup on the intake valves and ports because direct injection does not wash the valve backs with fuel. On urban/short-trip duty cycles deposits accumulate fr… Repairs typically run $300-$700. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class LED Headlamp Misadjustment / Incorrect Data-Matrix Coding (Recalls 21V509 and 23V662)?

    Two separate headlamp non-compliance recalls hit the W177 in the US. Under 21V509 (2019-2020 A220 and other models) LED headlamps that had been replaced during a repair carried an incorrect data-matrix code, so the aiming/light-intensity setting programmed into the lamp did not m… Repairs typically run $0-$2,000. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class eCall / SOS Communication Module Software Failure (Recalls 22V365 and 21V058, 'SOS Nonfunctional' Message)?

    The W177's telematics communication module (HERMES) has been the subject of two US safety recalls plus several service bulletins. Under 21V058 (2016-2021 vehicles) the module's software could report an incorrect vehicle position to the emergency call center after a crash. Under 2… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Auxiliary (Backup) Battery Malfunction Warning and 12V Standby Drain / No-Start?

    The W177 carries a small auxiliary/backup battery (behind the passenger-side dash trim, not in the engine bay) that supports the electronic shifter, start-stop and MBUX during voltage dips. It has a short service life, and when its capacity falls the cluster shows 'Auxiliary batt… Repairs typically run $30-$500. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2020-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class A250e Plug-in Hybrid Charging Interruptions and Failure to Reach Full Charge?

    The A250e (W177/V177 with the M282 1.3L plus 75 kW electric motor, sold 2020 onward outside North America) has a recurring owner complaint that AC charging stops part-way: the charge cable's status light flashes red, the car shows a 'charging malfunction' message, and the tractio… Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Blockage and Limp Mode on Short Trips?

    On diesel A-Class models (A180d/A200d/A220d, OM608/OM654 engines) driven mainly on short, low-speed urban trips, the DPF cannot reach the high exhaust temperatures needed for passive regeneration. Soot accumulates, the DPF/engine warning light illuminates, and the car can enter l… Repairs typically run $250-$800. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz A-Class MBUX Infotainment Software Bugs?

    The MBUX infotainment system suffers from frequent software bugs including touchscreen lag, voice assistant failures ("Hey Mercedes" not responding), Bluetooth disconnects, and navigation freezes. The A-Class was the first Mercedes model with MBUX and received early software that… Repairs typically run $0-$500. Severity: low.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Front Suspension Strut Noise?

    The front MacPherson struts develop a clunking or knocking noise over bumps and rough surfaces. The strut mount bearing wears prematurely, and the strut itself can develop internal valving noise. More common on vehicles with AMG suspension. Repairs typically run $200-$1,000. Severity: low.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Cabin Temperature Sensor / Overhead-Console Fan Dust Clogging Causing Climate Control to Blow Warm?

    The W177's in-cabin temperature sensor sits in the overhead control panel and is ventilated by a tiny aspirator fan. That fan and the fine-wire sensor clog with dust, so the climate control believes the cabin is already cooler than the set temperature and stops requesting cooling… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: low.

    What is the 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Rear Brake Pad Wear Inspection Gauge Missing (Recall 23V732)?

    2019-2020 A220 vehicles were delivered without the inspection gauge (and matching owner's-manual instructions) required to check rear brake pad wear, so owners and independent shops had no specified way to determine when the rear pads had reached the wear limit. The W177 rear bra… Repairs typically run $0-$700. Severity: low.

    What is the 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Steering Column / Steering Wheel Grinding and Knocking Noises and Low-Speed Steering Vibration (Multiple TSBs)?

    The W177's electric power steering column is the subject of a cluster of Mercedes service bulletins: LI46.10-P-077314 'Noises in the steering column area when steering', LI46.10-P-077313 'grinding noises between steering wheel and steering column' (steering column switch module/c… Repairs typically run $0-$2,000. Severity: low.

    Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

    Data sourced from 3,300+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.