Experiencing issues with your Mercedes Benz A 220 can be concerning, especially when it involves the transmission. Recently, our long-term A 220 exhibited some unsettling rough shifts, prompting a visit to the dealership for a thorough inspection. This experience highlights the importance of understanding potential issues and the service process for your Mercedes Benz A 220.
After dropping off the A 220, the dealership technicians conducted a comprehensive examination over two days. They were able to replicate the reported rough shifts in the transmission during 4 out of 8 attempts, occurring in both Sport and Comfort driving modes, specifically during the 1-2 upshift at speeds between 15-20 mph. The technicians noted harsh clutch engagement and overall rough shift characteristics. Utilizing the SDS diagnostic system and a battery charger, they performed a quick test. Interestingly, the diagnostic scan revealed no current or relevant fault codes that were directly related to the customer’s concern. Furthermore, their search for related technical service bulletins or tip documents came up empty.
Following the shop foreman’s recommendation, a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) fluid level check was performed. The DCT fluid level was found to be within the specified range, registering at dipstick marking 5 at 158 degrees Fahrenheit. To address the observed shifting issues, the technicians proceeded to perform full basic transmission adaptations. This procedure is designed to re-learn the shift patterns and wet clutch application characteristics of the DCT. After completing the transmission adaptations via SDS, a quality control road test was conducted. The dealership reported a significant improvement, stating that the shift pattern and clutch application in both Comfort and Sport modes were improved by approximately 99% after the adaptations.
Upon picking up the Mercedes Benz A 220, the service advisor detailed the services performed. However, they were hesitant to definitively state that there was a mechanical fault with the vehicle. Instead, the service advisor attributed the driving characteristics to the inherent nature of a DCT. While DCT transmissions can sometimes exhibit minor jerkiness, especially at low speeds, the assertion that the observed behavior in the A 220 was normal is questionable, particularly considering the vehicle’s smoother performance when newer and the subsequent degradation over mileage. Despite the claim of a fix, and somewhat puzzlingly, there was no charge for the service. The A 220 was returned, and the crucial next step was to evaluate whether these “fixes” had effectively resolved the rough shifting issues on the road.
Prior to this dealership visit, the transmission concerns with the A 220 had been confirmed by multiple drivers. Initial experiences with the A 220’s transmission revealed less-than-ideal off-the-line starts. However, after accumulating 10,000 miles, the long-term A 220’s transmission performance had noticeably worsened, becoming significantly more problematic. The issue was thoroughly explained to both the service advisor and the technician at the time of service appointment scheduling. The service personnel asked pertinent questions regarding the issue’s timing, whether it occurred when the car was cold or warm, and the selected drive mode – all indicating a methodical approach to diagnosis. The vehicle was left overnight for a more in-depth assessment.
The following day, the dealership requested to keep the A 220 for an extended drive, further demonstrating their commitment to understanding the problem. After the technician took the car for an overnight extended drive, a follow-up call was received from the service advisor the next morning. They outlined a list of checks that had been performed and several adjustments that they believed had successfully addressed the reported transmission issue. The resolution, in this case, appeared to be the transmission adaptations.
In a separate service event, the Mercedes Benz A 220 also indicated the need for its 10,000-mile scheduled service. An appointment was promptly scheduled at the local Mercedes dealership. This service included essential maintenance tasks such as an oil change, tire rotation, and brake inspection. The brake inspection revealed no issues, and the oil change was completed without complications. However, a tire wear inspection revealed irregularities, leading to the dealer’s recommendation for a wheel alignment. Subsequently, the Mercedes Benz A 220 received a wash, oil change, tire rotation, and wheel alignment. The total cost for this 10,000-mile service amounted to a significant $617.59.
Breaking down the service costs, the wheel alignment was priced at $229.95, the oil change (including 6 quarts of Synthetic 5W40 and a filter) at $285.69, and the tire rotation and balance at $101.95. Due to time constraints, the service was performed at the nearest dealership without price negotiation. Considering the substantial expense of this service, exploring independent service shops for the upcoming 20,000-mile service is a prudent consideration for managing long-term maintenance costs for the Mercedes Benz A 220.
