Mercedes-Benz A-Class A160 / A180 Petrol Engine Replacement Compare Prices & Get Quotes

A replacement engine for an A160 or A180 petrol typically costs between £400 and £3,800 depending on the engine code and condition. Used M266 units start from £400-£900, reconditioned from £900-£1,600, and fully rebuilt M270 turbo engines from £1,800-£3,200. Labour for supply & fit adds £400-£800.

• Used M266 (W169 A160): £400-£900
• Rebuilt M270 (W176 A180): £1,800-£3,200
• Rebuilt M282 (W177 A180): £2,200-£3,800

All A160 and A180 petrol engines use timing chains, not belts. The M266 (W169), M270 (W176) and M282 (W177) all have timing chains designed to last the life of the engine with proper maintenance. However, the M270 is known for timing chain stretch on higher-mileage units - a metallic rattling noise on cold start is the classic warning sign.

• All A160/A180 petrol engines: timing chain
• M270 chain stretch common at 80k-150k miles
• Regular oil changes are critical for chain longevity

On M270-equipped A180 petrol models (W176, 2012-2018), the most common symptom is a metallic rattling noise from the engine on cold start. Other signs include loss of power, rough idle, hesitation, and the engine management light illuminating. If you hear any unusual sounds, have the timing system inspected immediately - ignoring the rattle can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

• Cold-start rattle from the timing cover area
• Loss of power and rough running
• Engine management light activation

It depends on the generation and condition. A W169 A160 petrol is typically worth £1,500-£4,000 - a full engine replacement often exceeds the car's value, making a used engine or targeted repair (ignition coils, timing chain) more economical. A W176 A180 petrol is worth £4,000-£12,000 - a rebuilt M270 engine (£1,800-£3,200) can be a worthwhile investment if the car is in good condition. A W177 A180 petrol is worth £10,000-£20,000 - a rebuilt M282 engine is usually well within the car's value.

• W169 (2004-2012): used engine or targeted repair
• W176 (2012-2018): rebuilt M270 viable for good condition cars
• W177 (2018-present): rebuilt M282 usually justifies cost

On the M266 engine (W169 A160, 2004-2012), misfires are most commonly caused by faulty ignition coils, worn spark plugs, or a compromised ECU. The engine may run unevenly, feel sluggish or rough, and the check engine light may illuminate. Replacing ignition coils and spark plugs at regular intervals is the most effective solution.

• Faulty ignition coils - most common cause
• ECU failure - known issue on 2009-2012 models
• Wiring harness issues - inspect for wear

In the W176 generation (2012-2018), both the A160 and A180 use the same M270.910 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, but with different ECU calibrations. The A160 produces 102 hp, while the A180 produces 122 hp. In the W169 generation (2004-2012), the A160 uses the 1.5-litre M266.920 (95 hp).

• W176: same M270 engine, different ECU tune
• A160: 102 hp, A180: 122 hp
• W169 A160: 1.5L M266, 95 hp