Faults:

I started to notice a cracking noise from the rear end about 2-3 months after buying the car and assumed it was the spare wheel working loose as the noise only happened on corners or over bumps. After 8 months of hearing this intermittent noise I decided to get a mechanics opinion. An idependent mechanic immediately pointed out it was the rear radius arms on both wheels. The wheels were effectively loose and could be moved about 1/2 inch overall. He recommended both radius arms be replaced and stated that every A-class he has seen has this problem. I took it to a MB dealer since being an approved used MB its warranty was still in effect. I asked for the radius arms to be replaced. MB only replaced the wheel bearings, this has stopped the noise, but only time will tell.

Another problem is the way the car accelerates. Being a clutchless system there is a lag when moderate to hard accelerating. On pressing the accelerator pedal the revs shoot up to about 4500, the car doesn't accelerate until about 1-2 seconds later when the drive system engages and the revs drop. This can be quite annoying when wanting to overtake another vehicle quickly. The MB dealer says it is "normal" for this clutchless system.

General Comments:

Overall I believe this was a good buy as I do a lot of miles and hate using clutches in traffic jams. So far, on long motorway driving, I get 60 mpg and about town 47 at the worst. Cheap to insure and tax, comfortable ride, unless on a poor road surface then the wide front tires will dictate which direction you go. Good power steering, very solid and controllable. Tyres don't have much grip in the wet, but they can be changed. Handling is good for the type of car it is (i.e. its no sports car).

Compared to a Renault Clio that I rented prior to buying this, the A-class is far better for long distance driving and more comfortable, and a second hand A-class is cheaper than a new Clio. New A-classes are not worth the money, only buy used, only depreciation will create value for money.

Faults:

On collection I found that the driver's seat was "crunching" underneath me. Returned the car to the garage under the Signature Warranty for repair. On collecting the car was told by the garage that they had pulled off and broken the seat adjustment handle and would have to order one for me.

One mile from garage seat collapsed again. Returned to garage for new seat and new adjustment handle. All now OK.

Approximately 500 miles ago rattling coming from under front of car. Took car to Mercedes dealer who said it was "torsion bar brackets" and will be repaired under same warranty in 4 weeks time. Car now rattles and rumbles constantly.

General Comments:

A nice car, a little firm on suspension, but a delight to drive. I have the Automatic Clutch System which is an attractive feature and definitely saves driver effort.

Leather seating and other trim of a high order with some well thought out features.

Would like a speed adjustment on the intermittent screen wipe.

Faults:

Creaking dashboard and seats.

Rear trailing arms replaced under warranty.

Front discs squeaking horribly (new discs cured)

Paint is very vulnerable to scratches.

General Comments:

Incredibly practical car (excepting its 11 foot long) when all the seats come out.

Not however a blast to drive - nippy, yes, but steering is a let down; woolly and under geared.

Ride on poor surfaces is frankly terrible.

Faults:

Absolutely nothing!

General Comments:

This is the best car I have ever owned. No complaints at all. Sure, all cars have their strengths and weaknesses (including the A Class) however, as an overall package, an excellent car and a pleasure to drive and own.