Last updated: 2026-04-09

2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
RELIABILITY SCORE: 48/100 (MIXED)

2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Reliability Report

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class scores 48/100 ("Mixed"). With 10 recalls and 52 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.

Recalls

10

Complaints

52

Complaint Rate

N/A

Est. Repair Cost

$908

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint SeverityN/A

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact59/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue DiversityN/A

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Caution

Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.

Top Issues to Watch

  • POWER TRAIN (10)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (5)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Final Year

2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (W176).

  • Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
  • 2 years after the last refresh (2016).
  • 3rd generation A-Class (US).

What this means for buyers

Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.

2013: Third generation (W176) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2016: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2018: This Model Year

2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (W176).

Should You Buy the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class?

A 48/100 score puts the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (W176).

Complaint volume sits above average at 52 owner complaints alongside 10 recalls. Issues in power train (10) tend to be the costly ones.

Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put power train (10) at the top of the inspection checklist.

Compared to the 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which scored 7 points higher.

Pros

  • +Low complaint frequency
  • +Well-established generation

Cons

  • Below-average reliability score
  • Above-average recall count
  • POWER TRAIN issues reported (10 complaints)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report several issues related to the... (6 complaints)
  • 1 fire incident reported in owner complaints

Compare 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 10 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • POWER TRAIN (10)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

10

recalls on record

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has 10 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

52

complaints
LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

7

Crashes

1

Fires

5

Injuries

0

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Recall Details

10 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

23V8540002023-12-15

STRUCTURE

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel to detach from the vehicle.

Consequence

A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V-197.

22V9550002022-12-23

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2012-2014 ML550, 2012-2015 ML350, AMG ML63, 2015 ML250, ML400, 2016 GLE450, GLE300, 2016-2018 GLE350, GLE550, 2016-2019 GLE400, 2017-2019 AMG GLE43, and 2016-2020 AMG GLE63 vehicles. Water might accumulate in the spare tire wheel well and damage the fuel pump control unit, which could cause an engine stall while driving.

Consequence

An engine stall while driving increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will install a water drain plug, inspect for water intrusion, and replace the fuel pump control unit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2023010002 and 2023010003.

22V3650002022-05-20

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, COMMUNICATION

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.

Consequence

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.

Remedy

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.

VIN History Report

10 recalls and a score of 48 — check any 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class before buying

With a below-average reliability score, a VIN check is especially important. Uncover hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that data alone can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (TBD)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

PHEV Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso (Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Mercedes-Benz A-ClassRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$908

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated Cost
No Start Diagnosis$198 – $291
Purge Valve Replacement$187 – $229
AC Compressor Clutch Replacement$1,321 – $1,452
Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recover$61 – $90
Washer Fluid Level Sensor Replacement$226 – $326
Engine Mount Replacement$2,560 – $3,400
Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing$198 – $291
Ignition Coil Replacement$237 – $294
Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement$639 – $704
Pinion Seal Replacement$209 – $259

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

  • Inspect transmission for gear shifting issues, especially from Park to other gears

  • Check for water intrusion in the trunk and sunroof areas

  • Test brakes for immediate engagement and listen for squealing noises

  • Verify fuel pump operation and inspect for water damage in the spare tire area

  • Test infotainment system for freezing or rebooting issues

  • Inspect tires for abnormal wear and check tire pressure stability

  • Test low beam headlights for adequate illumination at night

2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Common Problems by Component

52 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

10
6
13
POWER TRAIN (10)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)SERVICE BRAKES (5)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (4)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)STEERING (4)FUEL SYSTEM (3)TIRES (3)Other (13)

POWER TRAIN

10 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class frequently report issues with the transmission, particularly difficulty shifting gears. Complaints commonly mention an inability to shift from Park to other gears, and from Drive to Reverse, often requiring the engine to be restarted to resolve the issue temporarily. These problems are noted to occur intermittently and seem to become more frequent over time, with some reports indicating recurrence for several years. One owner reports a crash related to the vehicle lunging forward unexpectedly while stopped. Additionally, some owners describe violent jerking when downshifting and unintended rolling when the vehicle is shut off in Drive. These issues are typically observed after several years of ownership or around 60,000 miles, suggesting potential concerns for used car buyers regarding reliability and safety.

10 complaints total1 crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report several issues related to the electrical system. A recurring problem involves water intrusion, particularly through the sunroof, which has led to battery damage in some cases. Another common issue is with the vehicle's information monitor, which freezes and reboots, affecting navigation and other functions. Some complaints also highlight problems with the fuel pump and telematics system, with one report noting a crash due to unintended acceleration. These issues are reported at mileages ranging from approximately 49,000 to 81,000 miles, and some involve safety implications, such as potential stalling or unintended acceleration.

6 complaints total1 crash

SERVICE BRAKES

5 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report several issues related to the service brakes. Complaints frequently mention premature brake pad wear, with one owner needing brake replacement after only 9,000 miles and another after 14,000 miles. Multiple owners describe symptoms such as brakes not engaging immediately, loud squealing noises, and brake pads going metal to metal without warning indicators. These problems often occur between 9,000 and 37,873 miles. Safety implications are noted, with one owner experiencing a delay in brake response that required evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision. This information is relevant for potential buyers considering the maintenance history and brake system reliability of this vehicle model.

5 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (4 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report issues related to unintended acceleration and challenges with vehicle speed control. Complaints frequently mention sudden acceleration incidents, often leading to crashes, with one report detailing severe vehicle damage and a driver injury when the car accelerated uncontrollably from a parked position. Another common issue involves the cruise control system, where the set speed cannot be cleared unless the vehicle is stopped and the engine is turned off, causing potential safety risks. These incidents occur at various mileage ranges, with one report at approximately 91,000 miles. Prospective buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly the safety implications associated with unintended acceleration and cruise control malfunctions.

4 complaints total3 crashes1 injury
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several issues with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class, primarily involving safety and operational failures. One significant pattern involves the loss of core safety and emergency communication systems, such as E-Call/SOS and crash notification, due to the discontinuation of backend support, leaving these functions inoperative. Another complaint details an incident where the vehicle caught fire during basic driving, with no prior issues or modifications noted. Additionally, a separate report describes a sudden engagement of the parking brake while driving, which stopped the vehicle abruptly and required extensive dealership intervention. These complaints highlight potential safety risks, including fire hazards and unexpected vehicle stoppages, which could be critical for prospective buyers to consider.

4 complaints total1 fire
STEERING (4 complaints)

STEERING

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report issues with the steering system, particularly involving sudden and uncontrollable swerving. Complaints frequently mention that the vehicle unexpectedly veers or spins out of control, often without any preceding warning lights or discernible triggers. One incident resulted in a low-speed collision due to electric power steering failure, with a diagnostic revealing a steering rack short and communication issues with the electric power steering control unit. These issues are reported across different driving conditions and speeds, with one complaint noting the problem occurred at approximately 8,000 miles. The safety implications include potential loss of control and the risk of accidents, as evidenced by the reported crash.

4 complaints total1 crash
FUEL SYSTEM (3 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

3 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 frequently report issues related to water intrusion affecting the fuel system, specifically the fuel pump control unit. Common symptoms include the vehicle failing to start or stalling unexpectedly while driving, sometimes at high speeds such as 70 MPH. These issues are often observed around 50,000 to 132,000 miles. Safety implications include potential loss of vehicle control due to stalling. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and verify if recall repairs have been completed, as some owners report delays in part availability for necessary repairs.

3 complaints total
TIRES (3 complaints)

TIRES

3 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report issues primarily related to tire condition and pressure. A common symptom described is abnormal tire wear, with some owners noting critically low tread on multiple tires around 20,000 miles. Another frequently mentioned issue is tire pressure loss, with one owner experiencing a recurring drop from 38 PSI to 32 PSI, eventually leading to a sidewall bubble. There are also reports of a tire blowout occurring at approximately 35,040 miles. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, the described tire failures and pressure issues could pose safety risks. This information may be particularly relevant for used car buyers considering vehicles with similar mileage.

3 complaints total
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (3 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

3 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class exterior lighting, specifically with the low beam headlights. Complaints frequently mention inadequate illumination while driving at night, with some owners expressing difficulty seeing without using high beams. One owner notes that the dealership adjusted the bulb locations, but the problem persisted. The failure occurs at low mileage, around 20 miles in one instance. Safety implications include potential difficulty in detecting pedestrians or obstacles in poorly lit areas, although no crashes or injuries are reported.

3 complaints total
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)

AIR BAGS

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class report issues with the airbag system, specifically non-deployment during a crash and warning lights indicating potential malfunctions. One complaint describes a crash where airbags did not deploy, resulting in an injury, while another mentions a persistent airbag warning light and a message indicating a front left airbag malfunction at approximately 46,000 miles. These reports suggest safety implications, particularly regarding the airbag system's reliability in critical situations. Used car buyers should be aware of these issues and consider having the airbag system inspected before purchase.

2 complaints total1 crash1 injury

When Do 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

60,000–65,000 milesPower train shifting issues
49,000–81,000 milesElectrical system water intrusion
9,000–37,873 milesService brakes premature wear

Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years to Buy

The best Mercedes-Benz A-Class year is 2022 with a reliability score of 65/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2026 (64/100) and 2020 (59/100).

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Years to Avoid

The worst Mercedes-Benz A-Class year is 2018 with a score of 48/100, primarily due to power train (10) issues. Also avoid 2024 (50/100).

48
Mixed

2018

(Current Model)

10Recalls
52Complaints
50
Mixed

2024

7Recalls
21Complaints

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Reliability Score Trend

Mercedes-Benz A-Class reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 57/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201848/100Mixed
201955/100Mixed
202059/100Mixed
202158/100Mixed
202265/100Good
202450/100Mixed
202664/100Good

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202664/100+14Good00
202450/100-15Mixed721
202265/100+7Good12
202158/100-1Mixed1511
202059/100+4Mixed918
201955/100+7Mixed1342
2018(selected)48/100Mixed1052

2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Reliability by Powertrain

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.

Reliability comparison across powertrain options
PowertrainComplaintsRecallsIncidents*Crash Rating
Gas010N/T
PHEV5298N/T
Total52108

NHTSA tracks complaints by vehicle configuration when that detail is available. Model-level reports that do not identify a specific powertrain are included in Total but not assigned to a row. A plus sign indicates a confirmed minimum; — means no complaints could be attributed to that specific powertrain. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.

* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class reliable?
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has a "Mixed" reliability rating (48/100) and may present some ownership challenges. With 10 recalls and 52 complaints, buyers should research known issues carefully.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class include: POWER TRAIN (10 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints), VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (4 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class have?
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has 10 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class expensive to maintain?
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class may have above-average maintenance costs. Its reliability score of 48/100 and 52 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely.

Don’t buy a 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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