Mercedes-benz M166 problems
The M166 is a range of inline-four engines produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1997 to 2005, before it was succeeded by the M266 engine from 2004.
Design
The M166 is transversely mounted and features 2 valves per cylinder with multipoint injection. The engine is used in W168 A-Class models that feature the 'sandwich concept', where the engine is mounted at a 59-degree angle just behind the front axle. This allows for better weight distribution as well as increased safety, as the engine slides underneath the floorpan instead of into the cabin in the event of a head-on collision.
Models
M166 E14
- 1997–2004 W168 A140
M166 E16
- 2001–2005 W639 Vito 1
- 1997–2004 W168 A160
M166 E19
- 1999–2004 W168 A190
- 2001–2005 W639 Vito 1
- 2001-2005 W414 Vaneo 1
M166 E21
- 2002–2004 W168 A210
Social links
Mercedes-benz M166 model years
Common Mercedes-benz M166 problems
The Mercedes-Benz M166 engine is a range of inline-four engines produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1997 to 2005. These engines were used in W168 A-Class models that feature the 'sandwich concept', where the engine is mounted at a 59-degree angle just behind the front axle, allowing for better weight distribution and increased safety in the event of a head-on collision.
One common issue with the M166 engine is oil leaks, which can be caused by a faulty valve cover gasket or a worn crankshaft seal. Oil leaks can cause the engine to run poorly and can damage other components if left untreated.
Fuel system issues can also be a problem with the M166 engine. One common issue is a faulty fuel pump, which can cause the engine to run poorly or even fail to start. Other fuel system issues may include clogged fuel injectors or a dirty fuel filter, which can cause reduced performance and fuel economy.
Overheating can be an issue with the M166 engine, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as a faulty thermostat, a clogged radiator, or a malfunctioning cooling fan. Overheating can cause serious damage to the engine, and should be addressed immediately if detected.
In addition to engine issues, the Mercedes-Benz A160, which uses the M166 engine, can also experience problems with the transmission, electrical system, suspension and steering, brakes, and fuel system. These issues can often be difficult to diagnose and may require the help of a professional mechanic.
Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help prevent or address these common issues, ensuring that the engine runs smoothly and reliably for years to come.
What is the most common problem with Mercedes?
Engine Misfiring Issues
Engine misfires constitute one of the most prevalent problems that Mercedes-Benz cars face. This is a common occurrence in cars that have not received periodic maintenance to replace components such as ignition coils and spark plugs.
What is the problem with the M276 engine?
Introduction:
- Oil Leaks: One prevalent issue with the M276 engine is oil leaks. ...
- Camshaft Adjuster & Camshaft Failure: The M276 engine employs variable camshaft timing for improved performance and efficiency. ...
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Another common concern is related to the timing chain tensioner.
Are Mercedes M-Class reliable?
Provided you purchase a used Mercedes-Benz M-Class from one of the best model years, it could very much be worth your time. That's because even a used Mercedes-Benz M-Class will provide excellent fuel efficiency, good safety features, and overall comfort and reliability.
What is the engine life of a Mercedes?
between 150,000 and 250,000 miles
However, across Mercedes Benz models, the average falls between 150,000 and 250,000 miles.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mercedes-benz M166 years
We have researched Mercedes-benz problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mercedes-benz M166 cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Mercedes-benz M166 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mercedes-benz M166 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mercedes-benz M166 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mercedes-benz M166 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mercedes-benz M166 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mercedes-benz M166 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by M166 model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by M166 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mercedes-benz M166 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mercedes-benz M166 vehicles.
List of Mercedes-benz M166 complaints
Mercedes-benz M166 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-10
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-10
- VIN: WDDGF5EB9AF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: AFTER A FUEL FILL UP THERE IS A SERIOUS GAS SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. AFTER USING A QUARTER OF THE TANK THE SMELL GOES AWAY. THE VEHICLE IS PARKED MOTOR OFF. THE GARAGE IS SO FILLED WITH GAS FUMES I HAVE TO RUN A FAN. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR OVER 2 YEARS.
Mercedes-benz M166 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-20
- Date Complaint: 2020-02-20
- VIN: WDDHF8HB7AA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE
Mercedes-benz M166 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-24
- Date Complaint: 2020-01-27
- VIN: WDDKJ7CB4AF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE TO WORK (APPROX. 35 MILES) AND THEN RETURNING AFTER THE WORK DAY WAS COMPLETE, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. WE SPOKE WITH THE MANUFACTURERS ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AS WELL AS THE TECHNICIAN THEY DISPATCHED TO OUR LOCATION. WE TRIED MULTIPLE SOLUTIONS TO OUR PROBLEM WITH NO AVAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND UPON INVESTIGATION, THE ELECTRONIC STEERING LOCK MECHANISM HAD GONE BAD RESULTING IN A NEED TO REPLACE THIS PART. I HAVE DONE RESEARCH ONLINE AS WELL AS SPOKEN TO SEVERAL MEMBERS OF THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT THE DEALERSHIP WHO INFORMED ME THAT THIS WAS A GROWING ISSUE. THERE ARE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS ONLINE OF SIMILAR ISSUES AND THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THEY ARE SERVICING 1-2 VEHICLES WITH THIS ISSUE EVERY DAY. WITH THAT TYPE OF VOLUME, THIS SEEMS TO BE AN ISSUE WITH THE SOURCING OR MANUFACTURING OF THIS PRODUCT. THIS IS A VERY COSTLY REPAIR THAT SEEMS AS IF IT COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED.
Mercedes-benz M166 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-03
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WDCGG5GB6AF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE COMMUTING ON A HIGHLY CONGESTED HIGHWAY THE CAR LOST POWER CAUSING THE STEERING WHEEL TO BECOME LOCKED THIS LOST OF POWER AND DISABLING CAUSED MY CAR TO VEER INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND TAKING MY VEHICLE UNCONTROLLABLY OFF THE ROAD
Mercedes-benz M166 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2019-11-21
- VIN: 4JGDA5HB0CA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THIS MODEL HASN!T A TRANSMISSION FLUID MEASUREMENT STICK, BUT EITHER NOT INDICATE AT MONITORING SCREEN IF NEEDS FLUID, ALSO THE TRANSMISSION FLUID PAN BECOME RUSTED DUE TO LOW MATERIAL QUALITY LEAKING ALL FLUID AND CAUSING SERIOUS AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DAMAGES, COSTING OVER US$6000.00 IN REPAIR. I WANT THAT YOU AGENCY OPEN A INVESTIGATION. I HAVE THE OLD PAN TO BE EXANMINATED FOR FAULTY MATERIAL AT ALL VEHICLE OF THAT YEAR AND MODEL.
Mercedes-benz M166 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2019-04-14
- VIN: 4JGBB8GB5BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I NEED CAR FIT
Are you having problems with your Mercedes-benz M166?
