🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: A-Class Chassis Code: W168 Model Variants Covered: A160, A160 CDI Codes Engine Code A160 Petrol: M166.940 Engine Code A160 Cdi: OM668.911 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact hatchback, premium segment (Mercedes-Benz's entry-level offering). Competitive Analysis Competitors: Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, BMW 1 Series (later generations), Audi A3. Key Features Platform Innovation: Sandwich floor concept for improved safety and packaging. Design Philosophy: Compact exterior with surprisingly spacious interior, focusing on safety and functionality. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Years Covered: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, transmission, clutch, exhaust, fuel system, cooling system Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (front and rear, ABS), wheels and tires Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, comfort modules, engine control unit (ECU), body control module (BCM) Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Fault code diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting, repair procedures for common malfunctions Repair And Overhaul: Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair Specifications And Data: Torque specifications, fluid capacities, tolerances, diagnostic values Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages Print Quality Print Quality Digital: Excellent for digital viewing and printing of specific sections. Binding Type Binding Digital: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type Digital: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine A160 Petrol Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol Displacement: 1.6 Liters (1598 cc) Bore X Stroke: 83.0 mm x 73.7 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Horsepower: 102 PS (101 bhp; 75 kW) at 5500 rpm Torque: 150 Nm (111 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm Primary Engine A160 Cdi Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged diesel Displacement: 1.7 Liters (1689 cc) Bore X Stroke: 83.0 mm x 78.5 mm Compression Ratio: 18.0:1 Horsepower: 75 PS (74 bhp; 55 kW) at 4400 rpm Torque: 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) at 1800 rpm Fuel System A160 Petrol Injection: Bosch Motronic ME2.1 (Electronic Fuel Injection) A160 Cdi Injection: Bosch VP44 Rotary Injection Pump (Common Rail precursor) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type A160: 5-speed Manual Transmission Transmission Type A160Cdi: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional A160: 5-speed Sequential Automatic Transmission (Softouch) Transmission Type Optional A160Cdi: 5-speed Sequential Automatic Transmission (Softouch) Features Traction Control: Optional (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 3863 mm (152.1 in) Width: 1719 mm (67.7 in) Height: 1593 mm (62.7 in) Wheelbase: 2593 mm (102.1 in) Ground Clearance: Approx. 130 mm (5.1 in) Interior Seating Capacity: 5 Cargo Luggage Capacity: 395 L (13.9 cu ft) (seats up), 1140 L (40.3 cu ft) (seats folded) Weights Curb Weight A160: Approx. 1200-1250 kg (2646-2756 lb) Curb Weight A160Cdi: Approx. 1270-1320 kg (2800-2910 lb) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1700-1750 kg (3748-3858 lb) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Euro Ncap Rating: 4 Stars (at time of launch) Active Features ABS: Standard Esp: Optional (Electronic Stability Program) Traction Control Asr: Optional Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags. Seatbelts: Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters. Body Structure: Sandwich floor concept for enhanced crumple zones and passenger safety. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, optional navigation system (Audio APS). Driver Assistance Parking Assist: Optional Parktronic system. Connectivity Pre Wiring: Optional pre-wiring for mobile phones (e.g., Nokia integration). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Petrol: Every 15,000 km (9,320 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/year). Oil Change Interval Diesel: Every 10,000 km (6,213 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/year). Major Service: Typically around 60,000 km (37,000 miles) for spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter (diesel), etc. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil A160 Petrol: MB 229.1 specification, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity). Engine Oil A160Cdi: MB 229.1 specification, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity). Coolant: MB-Approval 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant concentrate, blue/green). Brake Fluid: DOT 4 (MB-Approval 331.0). Transmission Fluid Manual: Gear oil, API GL-4, SAE 75W-90. Transmission Fluid Auto: MB 236.20 specification (ATF, check specific model/year). Known Issues Common Issues: Issues with the 'drive-by-wire' electronic throttle control (ETC), potential for ESP/ABS sensor faults, wear on front suspension components (wishbones, ball joints), early models could have injector issues in CDI variants, rear axle bearing wear. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz AG (later DaimlerChrysler AG). Model Evolution Generation: First generation W168. Facelift: Minor facelift in 2001, introducing revised styling...