Hi All

I am new to this forum (any forum actually) - I have just purchased a 2003 A190 Elegance, and have noticed a 'knocking' on the steering wheel if turned quickly (whilst stationary) - it does make a noise if I go over any bump also - any suggestion before I take it to a mechanic, which I am sure will cost me a fortune.

Thanks

John

 

A very common issue, but not usually an issue really. Because of the driving position there is a long link between the steering wheel and the steering box. There are quite few joints and over time they will wear a tiny bit. If each one wears maybe 0.5mm or less you will end up with the knocking you describe. It happens on my g/f's A190 too.

A new one is c£700 GBP to install from an independent around here. However you probably don't need it, unless it is really bad and you can move the steering wheel a few inches without the tires moving. Your best bet is to live with it, it is perfectly safe as long as there isn't too much play!

I would advise you to keep an eye on the following too:

1) Air con, use it often (even at winter!) so the gas keeps the rubber lubed. Last time ours was checked it came out at 7degrees c from the dash vent, if your aircon is ok, it should be similar.

2) Tires - do you have low profile ones? Change them before they get to the legal limit as the side walls go, better to be safe than sorry.

3) Indecator stalk, can break easilly, e.g. when you indecate it moves slightly and flashes the main beam.

4) Get the suspension checked at each service, if you hear a big thud that sounds like something hitting an empty plastic container it could be the plastic bits on the front suspension, not too expensive but will need doing eventually.

5) The break pipes perish on the front so get them checked at each service.

The A class has lots of common faults but any good independent that sees a lot of them will know what to look out for and spot an issue before it becomes more of an issue. For that reason I would reccomend you spend a bit more on a service and take it to a good Mercedes independent who know what to look out for. Well maintained they are good little cars.

 

Thank you for that information (much appreciated)!

I seem to have another problem now - my water squirters have just stopped working for no reason (have checked all fuses, wiring, pipework) and still no luck! I cannot hear the motor though - do you think it could be the motor and is there a way I can check it?

Cheers

John

 

Check to see that you have voltage to the pump when activated.

 

guys m looking for assistance. i have a mercedes a190, suddenly its cranking but will not start, any suggestions?