When choosing the ideal battery for your Mercedes-Benz A-Class I (W168), produced between 1997 and 2004, several crucial factors must be considered, including engine type, battery capacity, and cold-cranking amperage (CCA). Given the age of these vehicles, ensuring the selection of the correct battery is essential to maintain reliable starting performance and optimal electrical system functionality.
For the petrol-powered models of the Mercedes A-Class W168—such as the A 140, A 160, A 190, and the sportier A 210—the recommended battery types are traditional lead-acid batteries. These petrol engines require battery capacities ranging from 60 Ah to 65 Ah, along with cold-cranking amperage ratings between 540 A and 640 A. Suitable examples of compatible battery models include Bosch S40 05, Bosch S50 05, Exide EA640, Exide EB620, Halfords HCB 027, Lucas LS027, Varta D15, and Varta D24. It’s important to note that these battery models are illustrative examples, providing reliable guidance, but similar batteries from other respected brands meeting the same specifications will also function effectively.
Owners of diesel versions of the Mercedes A-Class W168, specifically the A 160 CDI and A 170 CDI, will need batteries with higher capacities due to the increased electrical demands of diesel engines, particularly when starting in colder climates. For these diesel engines, the recommended battery capacities range between 74 Ah and 78 Ah, accompanied by higher cold-cranking amperage ratings from 680 A up to 780 A. Examples of suitable batteries for these diesel variants include Bosch S40 08, Bosch S50 08, Exide EA770, Exide EB740, Halfords HCB 096, Lucas LP096, Lucas LS096, Varta E11, and Varta E44. Again, remember that these are just examples, and batteries from other trusted manufacturers offering comparable specifications will also be appropriate choices.
A particularly interesting fact about the Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168 is that upon its launch in 1997, it represented a significant departure from traditional Mercedes designs. It was one of the first premium small vehicles offering a unique blend of compact dimensions, practicality, and innovative safety features, such as its patented sandwich floor construction designed for enhanced safety and packaging efficiency. Selecting an appropriate and robust battery is therefore especially important, as maintaining the electrical systems and safety features built into the A-Class ensures it continues to operate at its original high standards.
Furthermore, since the Mercedes-Benz A-Class I (W168) does not feature modern Start-Stop systems, the traditional lead-acid batteries mentioned earlier are fully sufficient and remain a cost-effective solution for owners seeking dependable and straightforward maintenance. Regular battery care, including routine voltage checks, maintaining proper fluid levels (for non-sealed models), and ensuring clean terminals, is highly recommended to extend battery life and keep the vehicle in top operating condition.
Finally, when replacing the battery in your Mercedes-Benz A-Class I, it’s advisable to verify the exact battery specifications outlined in your vehicle’s manual or consult automotive specialists to confirm compatibility. Considering the vehicle’s age, periodic checks on the alternator and charging system will also help maintain battery longevity, ensuring your Mercedes continues to deliver the reliable driving experience for which it is known. By carefully selecting the right battery—matching both capacity and cold-cranking amperage requirements—you enhance your vehicle’s reliability, safety, and longevity for years to come.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class in version I (W168) was produced in the years 1997 – 2004. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Mercedes-Benz A-Class (1997-2004):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Mercedes-Benz A-Class I (W168) – petrol engines:
- A 140
- A 160
- A 190
- A 210
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
Mercedes-Benz A-Class I (W168) – diesel engines:
- A 160 CDI
- A 170 CDI
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Mercedes-Benz A-Class , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!