The Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years To Avoid
We've rounded up four Mercedes-Benz A-Class years to avoid. See which ones (and why you should steer clear) so you can make a smart decision when preowned car shopping.
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a subcompact vehicle selection, offering an advanced system and a more compact driver for the benefit of the individual behind the wheel. It’s smaller, inviting, and one of the most affordable selections from the brand. However, there are some better years than others, so it’s vital to know which years to refrain from for the car.
There aren’t too many Mercedes-Benz A-Class years to avoid, but the ones we recommend refraining from purchasing tend to have more issues than the ideal selections. They could cost less but won’t be worth the investment. Read on to learn more about the years to avoid, the safest selections, issues with the years, and more information.
Quick Answer: Avoid Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years 2000, 2001, 2005, and 2019.
There are four years we recommend avoiding. If possible, do not purchase the 2000, 2001, 2005, or 2019 selections. These are the most unstable and have the highest level of complaints from customers. Most of these price points tend to be more affordable, but they won’t be worth the money.
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Which Year Models of Mercedes-Benz A-Class Are Safe to Buy Used?
Since there are some terrible years, there are also some excellent alternatives. Mercedes-Benz has created some ideal model years for the A-Class thus far that are worth your money and have the least number of customer complaints. Let’s let you know which selections are the safest to invest in as used selections.
According to carcomplaints.com, here are the top years to invest in used for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class:
- 2002 Mercedes-Benz A160
- 2005 Mercedes-Benz A190
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG C43
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63S
- 2020 Mercedes-Benz A220
These offer an ideal experience for drivers behind the wheel.
There is an excellent smattering of older and newer model years for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class selections, so you can pick a modern version for the features or choose an older iteration of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class if you want to save more money. These are far better choices for your wallet and life.
Which Year Models of Mercedes-Benz A-Class to Avoid
Unfortunately, there are also versions of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class to avoid. These typically break down more often and have the highest reported issues from customers behind the wheel.
We advise you to avoid the following years for the Mercedes-Benz A-Glass:
- 2000 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
- 2001 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
- 2005 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
These are unfortunate selections for this vehicle type.
As you can see, newer and older model years are available for the worst on the market. If you have the chance to purchase one, we recommend looking elsewhere. They won’t save you cash in the long haul.
Common Mercedes-Benz A-Class Problems
When considering the Mercedes-Benz A-Class years to avoid, it’s also helpful to ponder some of the frequent troubles you will see in the car. No vehicle is free from its issues, so it’s vital to prepare as best as possible. There are several issues you could experience no matter the year selected.
Here are the troubles in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class:
- Oil leaks
- Airbag faults
- Brake problems
- Engine mount struggles
These are some unfortunate areas of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
The more effort you put into the care of your vehicle, the easier it will be to keep the car in excellent condition. Also, have a mechanic look at your vehicle and check out the system with a test drive to ensure there is nothing wrong right off the bat to set you off on the wrong foot. No model year is free from these troubles.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE MERCEDES-BENZ A-CLASS
From its stylish exterior to its tech-laden interior, the A-Class genuinely punched above its weight class. Let’s discuss the most reliable Mercedes Benz A-Class year models and generations.
Are Mercedes-Benz A-Classes typically reliable?
Considering an investment in the top Mercedes-Benz A-Class model years means it’s an excellent idea to consider if the vehicle is typically reliable. Although the quality can vary, it seems the car is generally a reliable selection if you pick one of the most dependable choices from the name.
Here are some details about the Mercedes-Benz A-Class reliability:
- Average dependability
- Variable reliability depending on factors
- Reliable and durable car
There are several factors to consider.
It seems your driving habits, model year, and the state of your vehicle will impact your reliability. Care for your car, invest in a reliable year, and ensure you drive in a way that’s kind to ensure it falls into the dependability category.
How much does a used Mercedes-Benz A-Class typically cost?
A Mercedes-Benz can be expensive, so it’s helpful to invest in a used selection. In that case, it’s helpful to know what you’ll be paying for a used vehicle.
On average, a Mercedes-Benz A-Class ranges from $15,000-$50,000. The range is wide because there are ample model years, trims, vehicle types, and conditions.
Is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class a good car to purchase?
We’ve talked about the Mercedes-Benz A-Class years to avoid, but there’s a critical question to consider. Is the A-Class worth investing in, or should you avoid it?
If you invest in one of the top years for the vehicle, it’s worth the investment if you can get it at a discounted price. However, if dependability is your top concern, go with another vehicle selection.
HOW LONG DO MERCEDES-BENZ M-CLASSES LAST?
Before putting down any money, however, we recommend asking yourself the question - how long do Mercedes-Benz M-Class cars last?
FAQs: Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years to Avoid
Q: Which Mercedes-Benz A-Class years should I avoid?
There are several versions of the A-Class to refrain from. If possible, do not invest in the 2001, 2001, 2005, or 2019 model years.
Q: Did any of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class years to avoid have other significant issues?
There were some other significant issues across the board that any investor should consider. Watch for faults in areas like oil leaks, airbag defaults, brake problems, and struggles with the engine mount.
Q: Are newer Mercedes-Benz A-Class models more reliable?
While there are some Mercedes-Benz A-Class years to avoid, many of the newer versions of the vehicle are more dependable. However, be careful. Some newer versions aren’t reliable.
Q: Is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class a good car to purchase?
We’re iffy on the status of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The dependable years are solid, but it isn’t ideal if your core focus is dependability.
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