2023 Mercedes-Benz A: common problems and what to check
What gets flagged at MOT on 2023 Mercedes-Benz As, from 734 tests in 2025, plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
What gets flagged at MOT
The share of 2023 Mercedes-Benz A MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres13% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Suspension3% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors3% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- Lights and electrics2% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Brakes2% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
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Other years
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 17,786 | Tyres 24% |
| 2021 | 29,555 | Tyres 26% |
| 2020 | 35,472 | Tyres 29% |
| 2019 | 42,686 | Tyres 30% |
| 2018 | 925 | Tyres 32% |
| 2014 | 509 | Tyres 33% |
| 2013 | 1,170 | Tyres 35% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test in Great Britain in 2025, counting tests of 2023 Mercedes-Benz As registered in 2023. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score