99 A Class - engine problem - advice requested

AUGUSTINE

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Guys,

My wife has a 99 A-Class (pertol, automatic). A while back it started making a noise on the left hand side underneath. It seems to improve when the car has "walmed up" and dosent effect the engine performance at all - so far.

We took it to the Mercedes garage (won't say what one) and they said that they could strip back the engine to find out what the problem was but their opinion was that it would need a new engine (they could strip it back and find out but this would cost). Given that it has only done 78,000 miles I was a bit shocked at this - especially as it runs fine - bar the noise (which I think actually makes this noise in a lower gear - as on motorway it dosent really make the same rumble).

I was surpised they couldnt give me an idea of what the problem was - and given that it was a 99 model with the new scappage scheme in action - wondered whether the problem was that serious (as I am sure they could tell I knew little about cars) and they were looking for me to trade in.

Other problems have occured, in that they have run a diagnostic check for the brakes (ABS light came on) and there is a problem with the v-belt splitting (?) which they said is connected to the engine problem - which they cant or wont tell me about as they would need to strip it back - as mentioned. They also said there was a knocking noise from steering column and right brake disc lipped and front brake hose deterioating. So plenty gone wrong!

Finally, the car may well indeed be finished, but I would be grateful if any of you could give me your opinion if you have experienced any of the above or have an idea of what the problem could be - as I could really do without buying a new car right now or paying £2500 for a new engine for car likely not worth the refit and labour costs.

Sorry in rambling - but really a novice at this so interested to hear back from people with a much better understanding.

Thanks in advance.

A
 

Dave Brooker

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Guys,

My wife has a 99 A-Class (pertol, automatic). A while back it started making a noise on the left hand side underneath. It seems to improve when the car has "walmed up" and dosent effect the engine performance at all - so far.

We took it to the Mercedes garage (won't say what one) and they said that they could strip back the engine to find out what the problem was but their opinion was that it would need a new engine (they could strip it back and find out but this would cost). Given that it has only done 78,000 miles I was a bit shocked at this - especially as it runs fine - bar the noise (which I think actually makes this noise in a lower gear - as on motorway it dosent really make the same rumble).

Take it to an indy for a 2nd opinion.
 

Xtractorfan

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Your Mercedes
S class
The poly V belt splitting and your engine noise may just be an idler pulley that needs replacing, noises that go away when a car warms up are generally never serious .. and as advised seek a seond opinion from and independant merc mechanic..
 
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A

AUGUSTINE

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Thanks will take it to an indy for 2nd opinion. Does anyone know how much it would cost for a new v-belt and fitting (so I dont get stung?)

Also - I live in Streatham, South London, so does anyone know of a good indy garage I could go to in the area?

Cheers,
 

mattkh

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Your Mercedes
A160 W168 1999 1.6
Also - I live in Streatham, South London, so does anyone know of a good indy garage I could go to in the area?Cheers,
Hi
Do you know where Geyfords used to be?
 

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