MERCEDES A-CLASS (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 9,525 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Total Tests (2024)
9,525
Avg Mileage
74,077 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,595
Is the 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 12 years old, 79% of MERCEDES A-CLASSs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 9,525 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 74,077 miles.
How does the 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS has 74,077 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES A-CLASS?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 1999 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2012 sits between the two at 79%.
How much does a 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES A-CLASS by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 95% | 204 | 20,573 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 296 | 25,924 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 17,959 | 42,922 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 81,134 | 48,596 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 82,055 | 58,788 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 78,925 | 68,387 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 57,434 | 77,575 mi |
| 2014 | 83% | 51,817 | 86,660 mi |
| 2013 | 83% | 34,582 | 92,179 mi |
| 2012 | 79% | 9,525 | 74,077 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 9,398 | 73,721 mi |
| 2010 | 76% | 11,300 | 79,296 mi |
| 2009 | 75% | 12,533 | 84,461 mi |
| 2008 | 74% | 12,272 | 89,507 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 11,036 | 91,201 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 8,389 | 91,943 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 5,552 | 88,124 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 2,470 | 84,566 mi |
| 2003 | 71% | 2,442 | 81,910 mi |
| 2002 | 70% | 1,766 | 83,515 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 1,096 | 88,180 mi |
| 2000 | 69% | 516 | 80,481 mi |
| 1999 | 68% | 526 | 79,332 mi |
| 1998 | 72% | 72 | 85,941 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES A-CLASS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS
The 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS is a small family car with a 1598cc diesel engine. 9,525 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 74,077 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES A-CLASS owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS Fuel Costs
The 1598cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,595 (£133/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES A-CLASS Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES A-CLASSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS
At 12 years old, the MERCEDES A-CLASS is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 95%. With 9,525 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 MERCEDES A-CLASS
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2013) 77% pass rate (-2%) from 211,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+8%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (same) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (+1%) from 81,831 tests