Quality assured: Mercedes A-Class, as confirmed by TÜV
Title: Reliable Ride: Mercedes A-Class - A "Guarantee of Quality" According to TÜV
Buying a used car isn't always a bed of roses, but there are exceptions. One of them is the dinky Mercedes-Benz A-Class. It's not exactly a bargain, but you won't be forking out much on repairs, and its resale value remains steady.
From an old-school car to a sprightly premium compact - the A-Class has gone through a major metamorphosis since its inception. Yet, according to the "Auto Bild TÜV Report 2025," the one thing that's stayed consistent is its reliability: "Mercedes' entry-level class has remained a guarantee of quality over the years and across various generations."
Part of the reason for this is that the vehicles are usually well-maintained by their owners. However, even the smallest Benz isn't without a few weaknesses. Used ones ain't exactly cheap.
Insights: The Auto Bild TÜV Report evaluates vehicles for their reliability and maintenance needs by analyzing data from TÜV inspections, which are crucial in Germany. However, the specific details about the Mercedes A-Class's performance in the Auto Bild TÜV Report 2025 aren't provided in the search results. For accurate information, you should access the report directly or check the official Auto Bild publications. In general, the Mercedes A-Class has been known for its reliability, with common issues varying by generation and model year.
Third Generation (2012-2018): The A-Class got a facelift in 2015, with changes in the exterior design, the introduction of a variable suspension for more powerful models, improved assistance systems, and LED headlights becoming standard. The engine range was revised, and the A 45 AMG with 280 kW/381 PS made an appearance.
Fourth Generation (2018-present): The current A-Class received a facelift in autumn 2022, and improvements were made to the infotainment system, the lane-keeping assistant, and the parking assistant, which can now park both perpendicular and parallel.
Strengths: According to the vehicle inspection (HU), the A-Class's "solid foundation" is praised, particularly the drive shafts and steering. The car almost never has issues with lighting, oil loss, or the exhaust gas test (AU).
Weaknesses: The third generation (from 2012) tends to have worn brake lines, while the current model has "twice as many defects in the parking brake."
Breakdown Behavior: The A-Class shows "mostly good reliability" according to ADAC statistics, with the occasional dip into mediocrity. The starter and starter battery in certain model years have been identified as breakdown hotspots.
Engines: The third generation had petrol and diesel engines, with power ranging from 75 kW/102 PS to 280 kW/381 PS, and diesel engines from 66 kW/90 PS to 130 kW/177 PS. The fourth generation offers petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines, with power ranging from 80 kW/109 PS to 310 kW/421 PS, diesel engines from 70 kW/95 PS to 140 kW/190 PS, and plug-in hybrid engines offering 160 kW/218 PS.
Resale Value: A 200 d 4Matic (2016) with 100 kW/136 PS is valued around 15,276 euros, a A 250 Style 4Matic (2020) with 165 kW/224 PS is worth 26,453 euros, and a A 160 (2018) with 80 kW/109 PS is valued around 15,457 euros.
Source: ntv.de, abe/dpa
- Used Cars
- TÜV
- Mercedes Models
- ADAC
- The Mercedes A-Class, recognized for its reliability, not only provides a quality driving experience but also offers a reasonable resale value, making it a practical choice for those seeking a balance between lifestyle and finance in their premium compact vehicle options, such as other motor vehicles and cars powered by today's cutting-edge technology.
- Maintaining a used Mercedes A-Class may require some attention to specific components like the brake lines and parking brake, which are common issues for third and fourth generation models respectively. However, with periodic checks, these can be managed, ensuring the vehicle's longevity and contributing to a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle.
