Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168 — Reliability

W168 1997–2004 1 engine

Reliability Summary

Engine M166 — 82/100 BUY
Known Issues 3

Engine in this model

BUY 82

M166

M166 1.4/1.6/1.9/2.1 (A-Class W168, Vaneo)

Mercedes' first transverse four-cylinder petrol, built for the A-Class W168 (A 140, A 160, A 190, A ...

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Known Issues Across All Engines

Issue Engine Severity Onset
Timing chain stretch M166 high 129,000 km – 161,000 km
Ignition module cracks causing misfires M166 moderate —
Water pump, alternator and starter wear - engine must be lowered to replace them M166 moderate —