A-CLASS

Mercedes-Benz A-Class — MPG, VIN Decoder, Recalls, Reliability & Specs

Everything on the Mercedes-Benz A-Class — 27 recalls, common problems, the best & worst years, full specs, MPG and NHTSA safety, by model year.

Data · NHTSA & EPA · 2019–2022 · 4 model years · Updated Jul 26, 2026 · 3.5 ★★★★★★★★★★ ForCar Score
Quick answer

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class spans 2019–2022 with 27 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2019, 2020, 2021 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 2022, 2021, 2020. It delivers up to 29 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.

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2019–2022
Years
27
Recalls
29
Top MPG
—★
NHTSA
74
Complaints
FIG.01·Mercedes-Benz A-Class — ForCar Reliability Score
3.5/5
★★★★★★★★★★
ForCar Reliability Score
Our editorial rating · 4 model years
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Safety (NHTSA)3.5
Recall record3.0
Complaint severity4.2

How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.

Overview

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 2019 to 2022 across multiple generations.

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How to read a Mercedes-Benz A-Class VIN — every digit explained

Every Mercedes-Benz A-Class carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.

FIG.02·How to Read a Mercedes-Benz A-Class VIN
1–3 · WMIW1H
4–8 · VDSCM826
9 · Check5
10 · YearR
11 · PlantA
12–17 · Serial004352
  • WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Mercedes-Benz and the country it was built in (real Mercedes-Benz codes below).
  • VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
  • Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
  • Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
  • Plant (11) — which factory assembled this A-Class.
  • Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Real Mercedes-Benz WMIs — the first 3 VIN digits by build country
  • GermanyW1H · W1K · W1N · W1W · W1Y · W1Z
  • USA1MB · 4JG · 55S · WD0 · WD8 · WDW
  • Argentina8BR · 8BT · 8BU
  • Brazil9DB
17 CHARS·SOURCE SAE / ISO 3779 · NHTSA vPIC

Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your A-Class, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.

How many recalls does the Mercedes-Benz A-Class have?

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has 27 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2019–2022. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.

2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class recalls 1

Exterior Lighting:headlights23V662000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022 A220, GLA250, and AMG GLA35 vehicles. The headlights may be incorrectly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. Incorrectly adjusted headlights can reduce the visibility of oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will inspect and correct the headlight adjustment, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 3, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023100005.

2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class recalls 3

Child Seat21V034000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 A220, A35 AMG, and CLA250 vehicles. The child seat anchoring system (ISOFIX) may be missing the right-side anchoring bar from the ISOFIX bracket on the right-rear seat.

Risk. If the anchoring bar is missing from the ISOFIX bracket, the child restraint cannot be properly secured to the seat using the ISOFIX securing system, increasing the risk of injury for a child in that seat.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the right-rear ISOFIX bracket and replace the bracket, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 16, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020004.

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera21V354000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk. A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix. The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.

Electrical System:software22V365000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.

Risk. A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Fix. The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class recalls 9

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V685000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 A 220 and A 220 4MATIC, 2020 CLA 250, CLA 250 4 MATIC, GLC 300 Coupe 4MATIC, GLC 300 and GLC 300 4MATIC vehicles. The driver's side front airbag modules may not have been properly bolted down.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's front airbag, the airbag may not deploy properly, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver airbag module and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 29, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019100001.

Electrical System:software21V058000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.

Risk. Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera21V354000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk. A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix. The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.

Exterior Lighting:headlights21V509000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2020 C300, 2019-2020 A220, AMG C43, AMG C63, 2020 GLE580, GLB250, 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, 2021 AMG GLE63, and AMG GLE53 vehicles. The LED headlights may have been incorrectly adjusted during a vehicle repair. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. Incorrectly adjusted headlights may reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will replace the LED headlights, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 13, 2021. A second notice will be sent once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail21V961000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix. Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.

Suspension:front21V990000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 AMG GLB35, 2019-2020 A220, and 2020 GLB250 vehicles. The integral carrier that supports the front axle may corrode, causing it to fail.

Risk. Front axle carrier failure may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the integral carrier, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022070009.

Back Over Prevention:display Function22V232000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk. An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.

Electrical System:software22V365000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.

Risk. A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Fix. The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:pads23V732000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 A220, 2020 CLA250, GLB250, AMG A35, AMG CLA45, AMG CLA35, and 2021 GLA250 vehicles. The vehicles may not be equipped with an inspection gauge to check the wear of the rear brake pads. In addition, information for using this inspection gauge might not be included in the owner's manual. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Risk. Driving with worn brake pads can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will install an inspection gauge and provide supplemental owner's manual information, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 29, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class recalls 13

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals And Linkages19V314000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 A220 and A220 4MATIC vehicles. Due to improper welding, the pedal plate may bend, impairing the operation of the brake pedal.

Risk. Impaired operation of the brake pedal may increase the risk of crash.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the welding of the brake pedal, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 31, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019050002.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V685000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 A 220 and A 220 4MATIC, 2020 CLA 250, CLA 250 4 MATIC, GLC 300 Coupe 4MATIC, GLC 300 and GLC 300 4MATIC vehicles. The driver's side front airbag modules may not have been properly bolted down.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's front airbag, the airbag may not deploy properly, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver airbag module and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 29, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019100001.

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera20V046000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 A220 and A220 4MATIC vehicles. In certain operating conditions, the rearview camera software may cause a delay in displaying the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply to Federal Motor Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."

Risk. A delayed rearview camera display can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the car, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. The recall began April 8, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020030018.

Electrical System20V416000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 A220 vehicles. The air conditioning condensation drain hose may not be installed properly. This may allow water to enter the driver and passenger foot wells and the center tunnel area, potentially damaging certain electrical components.

Risk. Water entering electrical components, can result in malfunctions of the supplemental restraint system (SRS), failure to start, activation of the limp-home mode while driving, and an impairment of other features, increasing the risk of injury or crash.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the air conditioning drain hose installation, correcting it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began August 31, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020070013.

Tires20V753000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 A220 vehicles. Certain labels containing important information such as tire pressure may not have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Risk. If the tires are inflated to an incorrect tire pressure, the tires may be overloaded, and increase the risk of a crash.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle for the labels and apply them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020019.

Electrical System:software21V058000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.

Risk. Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.

Fix. MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera21V354000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk. A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix. The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.

Exterior Lighting:headlights21V509000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2020 C300, 2019-2020 A220, AMG C43, AMG C63, 2020 GLE580, GLB250, 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, 2021 AMG GLE63, and AMG GLE53 vehicles. The LED headlights may have been incorrectly adjusted during a vehicle repair. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. Incorrectly adjusted headlights may reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will replace the LED headlights, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 13, 2021. A second notice will be sent once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail21V961000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix. Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.

Suspension:front21V990000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 AMG GLB35, 2019-2020 A220, and 2020 GLB250 vehicles. The integral carrier that supports the front axle may corrode, causing it to fail.

Risk. Front axle carrier failure may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the integral carrier, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022070009.

Back Over Prevention:display Function22V232000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk. An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.

Electrical System:software22V365000

What's wrong. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.

Risk. A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Fix. The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

+ 1 more 2019 recalls — see all by your exact VIN.

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Best and worst years for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 4 tracked years, the worst years are 2019, 2020, 2021 and the best (fewest complaints) are 2022, 2021, 2020.

ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.

FIG.03·Best & Worst Years — Mercedes-Benz A-Class
YearOwner complaintsTop issueVerdict
2019 A-Class43Electrical SystemAvoid
2020 A-Class20Electrical SystemAvoid
2021 A-Class9Electrical SystemAvoid
2022 A-Class2SuspensionBest
ROWS 4·SOURCE NHTSA + ForCar
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What are the most common Mercedes-Benz A-Class problems?

The most-reported Mercedes-Benz A-Class problems are Engine (17 reports), Wheels (1 reports) and Air Bags (6 reports) — out of 74 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:

3
involved a crash
1
involved a fire
3
injuries reported
0
deaths reported

Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:

Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class specifications & dimensions

The 2019–2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class measures 179″ long on a 107″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 3,417 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Mercedes-Benz A-Class window sticker.

FIG.04·Mercedes-Benz A-Class Dimensions by Generation
YearsLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseCurb weight
2019–2022179″70″57″107″3,285 lb
ROWS 1·SOURCE NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada

Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class cargo space, seating & interior room

How much the A-Class holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 91 cu ft of passenger volume and 9 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.

91
Passenger ft³
9
Cargo ft³
100
Total interior ft³

Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.

Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class tire size, oil type & owner specs

The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.

Wheels & tires
Wheel sizeby VIN
Tire sizeby VIN
Bolt patternby trim
Tire pressure32–36 PSI
Engine oil
Oil typeFull synthetic
Gradeon oil cap
Capacityby engine
Battery
Main battery12V · group by trim
Key-fob cellCR2032
Wiper blades
Front bladesby generation
Rear bladeif equipped
Fuses
Fuse boxeshood + dash
Diagramon box lid
Light bulbs
Headlightby trim
Tail / brakeby trim
Fogif equipped

Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.

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What MPG does the Mercedes-Benz A-Class get?

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class returns up to 29 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,650/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2L 4-cyl) gets 28 mpg combined and costs about $2,750/yr to fuel, emitting 313 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 6/10, smog 5/10) — about $2,750 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.

FIG.05a·Mercedes-Benz A-Class MPG, CO₂ & smog — 4-cyl
YearCityHwyCombFuel/yrCO₂ g/miSmogEngine
2022 A-Class243528$2,7503135/102L 4-cyl
2021 A-Class253629$2,6503095/102L 4-cyl
2020 A-Class243528$2,7503135/102L 4-cyl
2019 A-Class243528$2,7503135/102L 4-cyl
ROWS 4·SOURCE EPA (ForCar database)

Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.

See how the A-Class stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this A-Class's real yearly fuel cost.

What engines does the Mercedes-Benz A-Class have? Power & range

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is offered with 1 powertrain — 2L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.

FIG.06·Mercedes-Benz A-Class Powertrains
EngineDisplacementTransmissionDriveFuel
4-cyl2.0L · 4-cylAutomatic (AM7)FWDPremium
ROWS 1·SOURCE EPA + NHTSA vPIC

Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.

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How much does a Mercedes-Benz A-Class cost to own?

A used Mercedes-Benz A-Class sells for a median of about $21,000 for a 2021 — most listed between $19,995 and $29,800, from 31 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:

FIG.07·Mercedes-Benz A-Class Used Prices by Year
YearTypical priceMarket rangeListings
2021 A-Class$21,000$19,995–$29,8008
2020 A-Class$18,500$13,500–$22,99910
2019 A-Class$18,999$10,700–$23,00013
ROWS 3·SOURCE ForCar market · real US listings

For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a A-Class is worth today, or browse used-market prices for sedans.

A Mercedes-Benz A-Class tends to depreciate faster than average. A typical example keeps roughly 37% of its value after five years — losing about 63% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.

75%
Value @ 1 yr
53%
Value @ 3 yrs
37%
Value @ 5 yrs
$13,250
Est. 5-yr fuel
FIG.08·Mercedes-Benz A-Class Depreciation & Resale
$
AgeValue retainedEst. resale valueLost to depreciation
Year 175%$22,500−$7,500
Year 263%$18,900−$11,100
Year 353%$15,900−$14,100
Year 444%$13,200−$16,800
Year 537%$11,100−$18,900
ROWS 5·SOURCE ForCar estimate

What goes into the five-year cost to own:

  • Depreciation — the biggest cost: this A-Class loses about 63% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
  • Fuel — ≈ $13,250 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
  • Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the A-Class ages.
  • Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.

Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.

How much is a Mercedes-Benz A-Class to insure?

A Mercedes-Benz A-Class costs about $1,852 a year to insure for a typical driver on full coverage — roughly 29% above the average car. That's from its real HLDI insurance-loss index (129, where 100 = average car); your own rate moves with state, age, record and coverage.

FIG.09·Mercedes-Benz A-Class Insurance Cost
$1,852/yr
estimate · typical driver · full coverage · US average
$1,852
Est. / year
+29%
vs average car
$1,574–2,130
Typical range
129
HLDI loss index
CheaperAveragePricier
Where the money goes · full coverage
Liability (BI + PD)$889
Collision$519
Comprehensive$222
Other (UM / PIP)$222
LOSS INDEX 129·UNIT est. $/yr·SOURCE HLDI × NAIC
★ This is a typical-driver estimate. Go Pro to dial in your coverage, age & deductible — and see this car inside the full 5-year cost-to-own.Upgrade to Pro →

Estimate = US-average premium × the A-Class's HLDI loss index. See Mercedes-Benz insurance cost by model, cost by state, or compare any car.

Is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class safe?

NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the A-Class yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.

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How many miles does a Mercedes-Benz A-Class last?

A well-maintained Mercedes-Benz A-Class typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.

A-CLASS

Check your Mercedes-Benz A-Class’s VIN — history, recalls & specs

Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.

Check this A-Class’s VIN free →

All Mercedes-Benz A-Class model years

A year-by-year snapshot of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.

FIG.11·All Mercedes-Benz A-Class Model Years
YearRecallsBest MPGSafety
2022 A-Class2 recalls28 mpg
2021 A-Class3 recalls29 mpg
2020 A-Class9 recalls28 mpg
2019 A-Class13 recalls28 mpg
ROWS 4·SOURCE NHTSA + EPA

Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).

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Frequently asked questions

What are the worst years for the A-Class?

By owner-complaint volume, 2019, 2020, 2021 drew the most reports. 2022, 2021, 2020 have the cleanest records.

How many recalls does the A-Class have?

27 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2019–2022. Always check open recalls by your VIN. See all Mercedes-Benz recalls and reliability across every model.

What MPG does the A-Class get?

Up to 29 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.

How many miles does a A-Class last?

A well-maintained A-Class typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.

Is the A-Class reliable?

Our ForCar Reliability Score for the A-Class is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.

What's the Mercedes-Benz A-Class warranty?

New Mercedes-Benz models carry a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 4 years / 50,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Where is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class made?

The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your A-Class's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Mercedes-Benz may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.

How much does a A-Class weigh?

The A-Class's curb weight is around 3,417 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.

How much ground clearance does the A-Class have?

Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.

Data sourced from NHTSA (recalls, complaints, safety ratings) and EPA fueleconomy.gov (MPG). Best/worst-year analysis is ForCar's own aggregation of complaint volume. Last updated Jul 2026. — ForCar Editorial Reviewed by , founder of ForCar.
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