Mercedes-Benz A-Class A250 Engine Replacement Compare Prices & Get Quotes

A replacement engine for an A250 typically costs between £800 and £5,000 depending on the engine code and condition. Used M270 units start from £800-£1,800, reconditioned from £2,000-£3,500, and fully rebuilt M260 engines from £2,800-£5,000. Labour for supply & fit adds £400-£800.

• Used M270 (W176 A250): £800-£1,800
• Rebuilt M270 (W176 A250): £2,500-£4,500
• Rebuilt M260 (W177 A250): £2,800-£5,000

All A250 engines use timing chains, not belts. The M270 (W176) and M260 (W177) both 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 A250 engines: timing chain
• M270 chain stretch common at 80k-150k miles
• Regular oil changes are critical for chain longevity

On M270-equipped A250 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 W176 A250 is typically worth £5,000-£15,000 - a rebuilt M270 engine (£2,500-£4,500) can be a worthwhile investment if the car is in good condition. A W177 A250 is worth £12,000-£25,000 - a rebuilt M260 engine (£2,800-£5,000) is usually well within the car's value. Always compare the cost of repair against the car's market value.

• W176 (2012-2018): rebuilt M270 viable for good condition cars
• W177 (2018-present): rebuilt M260 usually justifies cost
• Vehicle worth over £8,000: replacement usually justifies the cost

The M270 is Mercedes' original 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine used in the W176 A250 (2012-2018), producing 211-218 hp with a timing chain. The M260 is a further development of the M270 used in the W177 A250 (2018-present), producing 224 hp. The M260 features improved efficiency and, in later models, 48V mild-hybrid assistance.

• M270: 2.0L, 211-218 hp, W176 (2012-2018)
• M260: 2.0L, 224 hp, W177 (2018-present), evolution of M270
• Both use timing chains, not belts

On M260-equipped A250 models (W177, 2018-present), misfires are most commonly caused by cylinder head failure - particularly on cylinder 2. The cylinder head can deform when hot, breaking the seal and allowing valves to burn. Fault codes P1CEF85, P030085 and P030285 are common indicators. On M270 models (W176), misfires are more often caused by timing chain stretch or carbon buildup.

• M260 cylinder head failure - common on 2018-2020 models
• M270 timing chain stretch - power loss + rattling
• Carbon buildup on intake valves - common on all direct injection engines