IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176)

The W176 launched as a sporty premium hatchback but early cars had several recalls including driveshaft detachment risk and insecure AMG seat backrests. The 7G-DCT gearbox showed hesitation and judder from the start.

What changed for 2013

  • •New generation launch
  • •7G-DCT dual-clutch gearbox introduced
  • •COMAND infotainment system

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !DCT gearbox judder at low speeds
  • !Water ingress through rear vent flaps
  • !Oil leaks from rocker cover gasket
2
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2013 period has 2 more issues than the Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

OM651 Diesel Chain Tensioner Oil Leak

ModerateEngine

The timing chain tensioner gasket is a common leak point. If ignored, the loss of oil pressure can lead to timing chain stretch or failure.

Most affected: A 200 d, A 220 d

Estimated cost: £200–£500Affects: 2012–2018Often appears around: 50,000–90,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Oil leak on the right side of the engine block
  • •Burning oil smell
  • •Rattle on cold start

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect the area around the tensioner for fresh oil
  • ✓Listen for chain rattle during a cold start

DCT gearbox judder and clutch wear

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic can be jerky, especially in stop-start driving.

Estimated cost: £500–£1,800Affects: 2012–2018

Typical symptoms

  • •Shudder moving off
  • •Hesitation selecting reverse

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Crawl in traffic
  • ✓Try repeated parking manoeuvres

Buying Tips for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176)

  • ✓Test DCT from cold and in traffic
  • ✓Check rear footwells for dampness
  • ✓Look for recall completion records
2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176)2014 Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176)

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Other Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176) Year Periods

2012201320142015201620172018

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