🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: A-Class (W168) Variant Models: A140, A160, A160 CDI, A170 CDI, A190, A210 Evolution Production Years: 1997-2004 Codes Chassis Code: W168 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact/Subcompact hatchback, often positioned as a stylish and practical entry into the premium compact car segment. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, BMW 3 Series Compact (E36/5). Key Features Unique Selling Points: Sandwich concept platform offering excellent interior space and safety benefits (lower center of gravity), distinctive styling, Mercedes-Benz build quality and brand prestige. Manual Purpose Purpose: To provide comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance information for the Mercedes-Benz W168 A-Class, enabling accurate diagnostics, repairs, and servicing. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Systems Covered: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including ECUs, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation), Bodywork, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (ABS, ESP, Airbags), Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides Page Count Estimated Page Count: 2000+ Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul procedures for M166 petrol and OM668 diesel engines, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling systems. Engine Management: Detailed information on engine control units (ECU), fuel injection systems (petrol and diesel common rail), ignition systems, emissions control, and sensor data interpretation. Transmission Manual: Repair and overhaul for the manual gearbox, clutch system, shift mechanisms. Transmission Automatic: Repair and overhaul for the automatic transmission (e.g., 5G-Tronic for some variants), including valve body, torque converter, electronic control. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive system, driveshafts, CV joints, differential. Suspension: Front McPherson strut suspension, rear semi-independent torsion beam, component replacement, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, rack and pinion maintenance and repair. Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system components, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake. HVAC: Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant handling and service. Electrical: Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all circuits, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting, interior and exterior electrics, fuses and relays. Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, corrosion protection. Safety Systems: Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, ESP (Electronic Stability Program) components and calibration. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, belt inspections and replacement. Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and rare faults, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting. Repair Overhaul: Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and adjustment for virtually all vehicle systems. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed, component-level electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, clear text and legible diagrams for easy printing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) Searchability Searchability: Text-searchable PDF allowing quick access to specific topics. Completeness Coverage Scope: Comprehensive coverage of all model variants and engine options within the specified production years, including detailed technical data and repair procedures. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Petrol A140: M166 E14 (1.4L Inline-4), ~82 HP A160: M166 E16 (1.6L Inline-4), ~102 HP A190: M166 E19 (1.9L Inline-4), ~125 HP A210 Evolution: M166 E21 (2.1L Inline-4), ~140 HP Primary Engine Diesel A160 Cdi: OM668 DE17 LA (1.7L Inline-4 Turbo Diesel), ~60 HP A170 Cdi: OM668 DE17 LA (1.7L Inline-4 Turbo Diesel), ~75 HP Performance Torque Peak A160: 150 Nm @ 3000 rpm Torque Peak A170 Cdi: 160 Nm @ 1800 rpm Fuel System Petrol: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multipoint Fuel Injection (MPI) Diesel: Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI), Turbocharged and Intercooled Emissions Control Standards: Euro 3, with specific components for emissions reduction. 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Gearbox: 5-speed manual transmission Optional Automatic Gearbox: Autospeed 5-speed automatic transmission (optional on some models) Features Drive Layout: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (e.g., MB ATF LT 71141) Manual Transmission Fluid: MB 235.10 (e.g., MB Gear Oil 000 989 26 02) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 3626 mm - 3752 mm (depending on variant) Width: Approx. 1719 mm Height: Approx. 1575 mm Interior Wheelbase: Approx. 2407 mm Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1150 kg - 1350 kg (depending on engine and equipment) Cargo Boot Capacity: Approx. 390 liters (expandable) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Euro Ncap Rating: 4 Stars (early models); improved with later revisions, particularly regarding side impact protection (A-Class was tested multiple times). Active Features Standard Safety: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Brake Assist (BAS), optional ESP (Electronic Stability Program). Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, optional side airbags. Body Structure: Unique sandwich concept construction designed for enhanced...