2019 Mercedes-Benz Alliado
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W177) marked the entry point into the Mercedes-Benz lineup, offering a blend of luxury and technology in a compact package. Engine options included the A220 with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 188 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Some owners appreciated the A-Class for its modern interior design and advanced technology features, while others found the ride quality to be firm and the rear seat space to be limited. Common complaints often revolved around the responsiveness of the infotainment system and certain electrical gremlins.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (A220)
- Coolant Leak from Thermostat Housing
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak detected around the thermostat housing. The vehicle may display a low coolant warning. Visible coolant pooling near the thermostat housing is a sign.
- Solution: Replacement of the thermostat housing, often with an updated design.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the top of the engine. Burning oil smell may be present. Visible oil residue near the valve cover gasket.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCT)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hesitation or jerky shifts, particularly at lower speeds. The transmission may feel unsure of which gear to select.
- Solution: Transmission software update, or in more severe cases, replacement of the valve body or entire transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software Update) to $4,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. The screen may go blank or display error messages.
- Solution: Software update, system reset, or in rare cases, replacement of the infotainment system hardware.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) to $1,500+ (Hardware Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
- Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors fail to detect obstacles, blind spot monitoring system gives false alarms or fails to activate. Warning lights on the dashboard may illuminate.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Rattling/Creaking
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling or creaking noises coming from the sunroof assembly, especially when driving over uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof tracks and seals, or adjustment of the sunroof mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Upholstery Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Seat Upholstery separating from the plastic trim
- Solution: Replacement of the affected part of the seat.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Malfunctioning Side Mirror Turn Signals
- Description/Symptoms: Side mirror turn signals intermittently fail to illuminate or remain constantly illuminated.
- Solution: Replacement of the side mirror assembly or the turn signal LED module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Windshield wipers only work on one speed or not at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the windshield wiper motor assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary The 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class, while offering a luxurious experience, has some issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Electrical problems with the MBUX system are common and can be frustrating. Engine oil leaks, coolant leaks, and transmission issues can lead to higher maintenance costs. While the severity of these issues varies, addressing them can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the repair needed.