2016 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2.1L Diesel · PL66 AKG

The 2.1-litre diesel A-Class typically returns 55-65 mpg on a mixed cycle, helped by the engine's efficiency, though real-world figures around 50 mpg are more realistic once the car is ten years old. Road tax sits in a reasonable band for a diesel of this era, and insurance is generally mid-range for the compact executive class.

Annual maintenance on a nine-year-old A-Class diesel typically runs higher than for smaller family hatchbacks, mainly because parts such as brake discs, AdBlue components and DPF-related items are pricier. Realistically, expect fuel, tax, insurance and routine servicing to come in around £1,400-£1,800 per year depending on mileage. A timing chain rather than cambelt on this engine keeps one major service item off the schedule, but the chain itself can stretch at high mileages, so listen for rattle on cold start.

Start with the wheels: the December 2023 advisory noted a slightly distorted nearside front road wheel, so check all four wheels for cracks, scuffs or buckling and confirm the tyre wear pattern is even across both axles. With 80,270 miles on the clock, brake discs and pads warrant close inspection — measure disc thickness against the minimum specification and look for lipping or scoring, as brake discs are one of the top three A-Class MOT failure points model-wide.

Inspect the headlamps carefully for condensation, clouding or failed bulbs, which is another of the three leading A-Class MOT failure categories in the aggregate data. On the 2.1-litre diesel specifically, check for warning lights on the dash (particularly the DPF, AdBlue and engine management lights), and scan for any stored codes with an OBD reader. Finally, examine the underside for oil leaks around the engine and gearbox, and check the condition of the front suspension components, including the lower arms and anti-roll bar drop links, which are known wear items on A-Class diesels of this generation.