2016 Mercedes-Benz A200

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz A200 is a compact hatchback known for its stylish design and comfortable interior. The A200 model typically features a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine producing around 156 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2016 A-Class included a 1.5-liter diesel, a 2.1-liter diesel, and a more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline engine in the A250. Transmission options typically consist of a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Owners often praise the A200 for its fuel efficiency, responsive handling, and premium feel, while some common complaints include the firm ride and occasionally cramped rear seating.

Engine

1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4 Gasoline

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing. Visible oil puddles under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil levels can indicate this issue.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, poor acceleration, and illuminated check engine light. Diagnostic codes related to the MAF sensor (e.g., P0101) will be present.
  • Solution: Replace the mass air flow sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (7G-DCT)

• Hesitation and Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, particularly from a standstill or during low-speed maneuvers. Jerky or harsh shifts between gears, especially in lower gears.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). If the problem persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update $100 - $200, Valve Body Replacement $1,200 - $2,000+
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs higher than usual without a corresponding increase in speed. The transmission may feel like it’s slipping out of gear or struggling to engage.
  • Solution: Inspect the transmission fluid level and condition. A fluid flush and filter change may resolve the issue if the fluid is contaminated. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush $200-$400, Rebuild/Replacement $4,000-$7,000+

Suspension

• Noises From Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the front or rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn sway bar links, bushings, or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sway Bar Links $100 - $300, Bushings $150 - $400, Shock Absorbers $300 - $800 per pair.

Electrical

• Faulty Central Locking System
  • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may intermittently fail to lock or unlock all doors. The remote key fob may also become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Check the door lock actuators and wiring harness for any damage or loose connections. Replace the faulty door lock actuator or repair any wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per actuator.
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use for an extended period. The car may struggle to start, or the battery may completely die.
  • Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the battery drain. Faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a malfunctioning alternator regulator are potential culprits. Repair or replace the component causing the excessive drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the source, could range from $100 to $1000+

Exterior

• Malfunctioning Parking Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors may give false readings or fail to detect obstacles, leading to potential collisions.
  • Solution: Inspect the parking sensors for damage or debris. Clean the sensors or replace faulty units.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per sensor

Interior

• Malfunctioning Infotainment Screen
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen may freeze, glitch, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates for the infotainment system. If the problem persists, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update $0 - $100, Replacement $800-$2000+

Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz A200, while generally reliable, can experience issues with its engine, transmission, electrical system, and interior components. Oil leaks and faulty mass airflow sensors in the engine can cause performance problems. The 7G-DCT transmission may suffer from hesitation and jerky shifting. Electrical issues such as a faulty central locking system and battery drain can be frustrating. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, such as transmission repairs or infotainment system replacements, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a mechanic inspect the car before purchasing.