MERCEDES A160 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 118 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
118
Avg Mileage
60,693 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2012 MERCEDES A160 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 12 years old, 81% of MERCEDES A160s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 118 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 60,693 miles.
How does the 2012 MERCEDES A160 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MERCEDES A160 has 60,693 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES A160?
The most reliable year is the 2010 model with a 81% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2012 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2012 MERCEDES A160 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 A160 by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES A160?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 MERCEDES A160
The 2012 MERCEDES A160 is a family car with a 1869cc diesel engine. 118 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model 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 60,693 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES A160 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2012 MERCEDES A160 Fuel Costs
The 1869cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 A160?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES A160 Reliability Trend
The MERCEDES A160 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 MERCEDES A160
At 12 years old, the MERCEDES A160 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 2010 model has the highest pass rate at 81%.
Alternatives to the 2012 MERCEDES A160
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 (-4%) from 211,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+6%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-2%) from 101,969 tests
- AUDI A3 (2014) 86% pass rate (+5%) from 77,639 tests