A “Service A3 Due” light just lit up on your Mercedes-Benz dash, leaving you puzzled and anxious. What does this maintenance even include, and how much damage will it do to your wallet?
This article will explain exactly what’s involved in a Mercedes A3 service, how long it will take to complete, how much it normally costs, and whether DIY is an option.
See Also: Mercedes A4 Service
What Is a Mercedes A3 Service?
To keep your Mercedes performing flawlessly for years, stay on top of maintenance like the A3 service. It’s part of the Flexible Service System (FSS) that spaces out care based on your driving.
Mercedes schedules alternate A minor and B major services every 10k miles/12 months. The FSS customizes your exact plan. An A3 follows previous A1, B1, A2, and B2 services as the 3rd minor scheduled maintenance visit.
When Should a A3 Service Be Done?
An A3 service on your Mercedes is usually due around 50,000 miles (80467.2 km) or in the 5th year, whichever comes first. The precise timing is set by your vehicle’s Flexible Service System.
No need to stress about remembering exactly when it’s time. Your Mercedes will display helpful alerts like “A3 Service Due,” “Service A3 in X Days,” “Service A3 Exceeded by X Days,” “Service Code: A3,” or just “Service A” when the next A3 appointment approaches. You can simply rely on your car’s service reminders to know when to bring it in.
What Does a A3 Service Include?
The Mercedes A and B services are a meticulously engineered maintenance program tailored to your vehicle’s needs. A3 service bundles together standard A service tasks with specific A3 items for complete care.
Avoid skipping this service since doing so will throw off the timing of various part replacements and you’ll end up having to make unnecessary trips. Mercedes’ maintenance schedule is very well thought out.
Replace Air Filter (A3 Specific)
Replacing the air filter is an important part of the A3 service. Installing a fresh, clean air filter improves engine airflow and efficiency and is one of the best things you can do for performance and gas mileage.
Over time, air filters accumulate dirt and debris that restrict airflow to the engine, robbing power and hurting fuel economy. Swapping the clogged filter for a new one allows the engine to breathe freely again.
Replace Spark Plugs (A3 Specific)
Inspecting and replacing spark plugs is a key part of the A3 service. Spark plugs deliver the critical spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine.
Over time, spark plugs can wear out, causing misfires, rough idle, lost power and poor fuel economy. The scheduled spark plug service during the A3 maintenance helps prevent these issues. This relatively simple, yet slightly time consuming maintenance task keeps your Mercedes running great.
Replace Synthetic Motor Oil (Standard A-Service)
The A3 service includes changing out the engine oil, just like any routine maintenance visit. Mercedes-Benz vehicles exclusively use full synthetic oil, which is higher quality and more durable than conventional oil. While you can use conventional oil, you’ll need to replace it much sooner than the 10,000 mile interval.
Synthetic oil resists breakdown, allowing you to safely go longer between oil changes without compromising lubrication. This extended oil change interval helps maintain ideal protection and engine performance between services.
Replace Oil Filter (Standard A-Service)
When you replace engine oil, the oil filter should ideally be replaced as well and A3 service does just that. The oil filter plays a key role in trapping debris and contaminants circulating in the oil.
By installing a new filter during the A3 maintenance, it allows the new oil to remain free of particles. This helps the clean synthetic oil maintain its lubricating properties longer. Replacing the filter periodically is important to prevent captured contaminants from being reintroduced into the engine where they could cause wear.
Check Fluid Levels (Standard A-Service)
Another important part of A3 service includes carefully inspecting and topping off vital fluid levels as needed. The Mercedes technician will check and replenish fluids such as transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
Maintaining proper fluid levels is super important for safe operation and longevity of your Mercedes. Fluids lubricate, cool, and power important components throughout the vehicle and A3 service helps make sure that these systems continue running as they should.
Check Tire Pressure (Standard A-Service)
Checking and adjusting tire pressures is part of the comprehensive A3 service. Properly inflated tires last longer, optimize fuel efficiency, and make your Benz both fun and safe to drive. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can cause inside or outside tire wear, compromise traction, are more prone to failure, and hurt fuel economy.
While tire pressure monitoring systems help alert you to issues, manual inspections like those during scheduled maintenance are still important. A3 service ensures your tires, including the spare, are inflated to the recommended pressures between services.
Check Brake Components (Standard A-Service)
Finally, a detailed brake inspection is a part of A3 service. Mercedes techs will thoroughly examine the condition of key brake components like pads, rotors and calipers to help spot issues like abnormal wear or damage early on.
Identifying potential problems before they progress allows preventative steps to be taken and allow you to save some time and money from your busy schedule. The brake system evaluation ensures your Mercedes’ impressive stopping power remains in top working order between services for safety and optimal performance.
Mercedes A3 Service Checklist (At-a-Glance)
| Service | Standard A Service | A3-Specific Service |
|---|---|---|
| Air Filter Replacement | X | |
| Spark Plug Replacement | X | |
| Synthetic Oil Change | X | |
| Oil Filter Replacement | X | |
| Check Fluids | X | |
| Check Tire Pressure | X | |
| Check Brake Components | X | |
| Maintenance Service Counter Reset | X |
* Air Filter Replacement and Spark Plug Replacement is required (x) for A3-Specific Service.
Mercedes A3 Service Cost
A3 service costs for your Mercedes will be in the $400-$800 range at the dealership. Independent shops may offer some savings, but you’ll want to make sure the mechanic is experienced with Mercedes or German vehicles in general.
Dealerships have their perks including a comfy waiting area, they may be faster, and may even offer you a free loaner car if you’re having additional work done. On the other end, smaller independent shops often provide greater personal attention and lower labor rates.
Wherever you go, choose a shop with strong Mercedes expertise and reputation. Ask around for recommendations. And check that DIY or independent service won’t void factory warranties.
Prices vary by location, so compare quotes. But focus most on quality rather than cost alone. Your Mercedes is a major investment – properly trained technicians using approved methods and parts are worth the peace of mind.
Read Also: Mercedes A2 Service Cost
Why Is an A3 Service So Expensive?
The higher cost of service often surprises newer Mercedes owners. But it reflects the sophisticated engineering of these vehicles. Mercedes are highly complex with advanced technology and premium components. They require specialized tools and diagnostic equipment, and technicians trained to properly service them.
The premium pricing also reflects the Mercedes brand prestige. As a luxury automaker, Mercedes delivers exceptional performance, comfort and innovation. This world-class ownership experience carries over into service costs as well.
So while pricier than the service of some other automotive brands, Mercedes A3 service protects your investment through expert care. But finding a trusted independent mechanic familiar with Mercedes can provide some savings while still getting quality service.
How Long Does an A3 Service Take?
A3 service is slightly more involved than A1 or A2 services but still only takes about 1-2 hours of hands-on mechanic time. That said, total time at the shop can vary significantly depending on a few things.
Dealerships may be faster but charge higher labor rates, while independent shops may offer a better price but may take longer to complete service. Wait times are longer during busy seasons and certain days of the week if shops are overbooked.
The number of technicians on staff also impacts turnaround time. Well-staffed shops can service cars quicker and may even have techs dedicated to only maintenance service while leaving complicated repairs to other technicians.
Any additional repairs needed on top of the standard A3 service will add more time in the shop so plan accordingly if the shop will need to work on other items or possibly wait for parts to come in.
Can I Do an A3 Service Myself?
Performing an A3 service yourself on your Mercedes is possible with mechanical skill and preparation, but has risks to weigh.
Make sure you have the proper tools, knowledge and ability for all service tasks. While basics like oil and filters are novice-friendly, others like spark plug replacement require more skill, especially on certain models where spark plugs may be tougher to reach.
Mistakes from inexperience could prove costly on a high-performance vehicle. Review manuals and online (YouTube) guidance to completely understand the components and procedures.
Also, confirm DIY servicing won’t void factory warranties, as some require authorized mechanics. Finally, remember you’ll still have to pay for parts and properly dispose of fluids so weigh potential savings versus your time investment.
With research, care, and honest self-assessment, an A3 service is doable DIY. But know your limits, as mistakes on a luxury vehicle come at a high price so consider both risks and rewards before committing.
How to Reset an A3 Service Notification On a Mercedes
Finished your own A3 service but still have that pesky reminder telling you that you’re overdue for service? Resetting it is usually easy.
- First, park safely with the engine off and transmission in Park.
- With the ignition on but engine not running, locate the left arrow button on the steering wheel. Tap it repeatedly until the A3 service notice appears.
- Once visible, press and hold the phone button and OK button together for about 5 seconds until the message disappears. This resets the system.
If that doesn’t remove the service notification, you’ll likely need a diagnostic scanner tool to reset it instead (they are an excellent investment if you do any of your own work). But on most models, this simple button procedure clears old service data and turns off the light.
This video will also help:
Do you know what the Mercedes A3
service includes and why it’s so
important?
The Mercedes-Benz company is one of
the top luxury automobile manufacture
-rs in the world. Their vehicles are
renowned for their dependability and
superb design. They usually provide
reliable performance for a very long
time.
Notwithstanding their toughness,
Mercedes-Benz will eventually require
maintenance to increase the engine’s
performance and the longevity of its
essential components. One such
maintenance task is the Mercedes A3
service.
The ‘A’ represents oil and filter change,
tire inspection, and other fluid checks,
while the 3 stands for spark plug
replacement, cabin, and pollen filter
inspection and replacement.
When a car falls under Service A, multi
-ple checks or adjustments need to be
made. And the A3 is added to that as
well. The spark plugs and air filters are
cleaned. However, rather than having
them fixed, they are simply replaced
at no expense.
All of these tasks are completed under
warranty. They may occasionally also
be charged. The A3 service is one of
the most crucial maintenance tasks
on your Mercedes.
Mercedes A3 Service
Simply put, a Mercedes A3 service
includes only basic maintenance, such
as an oil and filter change, air filter
replacement, cabin filter replacement,
tire inspection, spark plug replacement
, brake pad check, and brake fluid
replacement if needed. After complet
-ing all of these tasks, the mechanic
should reset the service interval on
the car computer.
- Oil and Filter Change
An oil and filter change is the first
component of the A3 service. It’s
necessary for maintaining fresh
lubrication in the engine, which will
guard against corrosion and prevent
wear on the moving parts.
The oil filter is required to remove
impurities from the engine oil that
could harm your engine. It is also
responsible for preventing particles
from entering the engine. Eventually,
the oil filter will become clogged with
debris and need to be replaced. [1]
The engine oil also becomes dirty over
time as you drive the car. So the A3
service is a fantastic way to make sure
you have new oil when you need it
most. The engine oil will be drained
and replaced before the technician
removes the old filter and installs a
brand-new one.
- Tire Inspection
Tire examination is necessary once the
oil has been changed. It ensures that
your tires don’t have any nails or other
metal objects inside them that could
cause a blowout when traveling at a
high speed. [2]
Tire pressure and condition also need
to be checked. Having too much or too
little air in your tires can accelerate tire
wear or reduce tire traction. Numerous
variables can cause pressure
variations, which all have the same
effects.
Tire inspection will also include wear
and tread patterns, and general tire
quality. Any irregularities can be a sign
of misaligned axles or lightly dented
wheels. Both of these problems can
significantly reduce your ability to
operate the vehicle, while also
degrading its efficiency ratings.
When it comes to performance and
general safety of the Mercedes-Benz,
tires are an essential element. They
assist in maintaining a reliable grip on
the road while reacting swiftly to your
every command.
Regular inspections are therefore
necessary to keeping a Mercedes-Benz
functioning smoothly and elegantly.
- Air Filter Replacement
The air filter keeps insects, dust,
particles, sand, or debris from entering
the engine. It also guarantees a good
mixing of air and fuel to facilitate
combustion. Each time an A3 is servic
-ed, the air filter is changed. This
ensures that all impurities are
eliminated before they harm the car’s
delicate interior parts. [3]
- Pollen Filter Replace -ment
Pollen filter replacement is also carried
out in the Mercedes A3 service. The
pollen filter purifies the air that
circulates through the heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning
systems. It effectively prevents dust,
pollen, dirt, and other impurities from
entering the cabin. [4]
With time, your car will develop a clogg
-ed cabin air filter, which will impair the
air quality inside your car. Airflow will
be diminished if debris and other
impurities clog the cabin filter. Your
car will feel stuffy and have limited
access to fresh air.
Consequently, the heating and cooling
system in the car won’t be able to
function properly. The AC blower
motor will also be under strain. You
and your passengers will travel in
comfort if the cabin air filter is clean
and functioning properly. Therefore,
cabin filter replacement is vital under
the Mercedes A3 service.
- Brake Fluid Replace -ment
The brake fluid is crucial part because
it regulates the braking system of your
vehicle. It guarantees that there is
sufficient pressure for the brakes to
function correctly and aids in
preventing corrosion on brakes and
calipers. [5]
For continued effectiveness, the brake
fluid must meet specified standards.
Over time, the brake fluid may pick up
impurities and begin to hold water.
Both water and impurities are bad for
brakes. This results in systems like
traction control and ABS producing
heat, which can reduce the lifespan
of your brake fluid.
- Spark Plug Replace -ment
The replacement of the spark plugs is
a task covered in the Mercedes Benz
A3 Service. The spark plugs are
essential because they light the fuel in
the cylinders, causing an explosion that
converts fuel to mechanical energy.
When spark plugs malfunction, the
engine will misfire and the Benz will
perform poorly. Regular spark plug
replacement will improve fuel
efficiency, lower emissions, smooth
out engine operation, and provide a
seamless combustion process.
Mercedes A3 Service Cost
For Mercedes A3 Service, the letter A
stands for superior and standard-
level services. As a result, the A3
denotes the ride’s third time receiving
A-grade service. According to the
authority, A-rated servicing entails
more thorough and professional
treatment for the vehicle. The service
also includes various modifications
and replacements, which could be
significant or minor.
Given that the A3 service has a higher
grade, it will undoubtedly provide a
better option.Therefore,the associated
cost is also higher. The price of this
service will vary based on your
location, service station, and other
parameters.
The average cost at a dealership range
-s from $500 to $780 while an
independent garage can charge any-
where from $289 to $532. The price
charged by an authorized dealer point
will undoubtedly be more because it
offers better features and
technologies.
In addition, they have many skilled
personnel who will handle your car
with care.
Although Mercedes is a luxury brand,
the cost of the A3 service seems lower
at independent garages compared to
dealerships. The primary cause of the
low price is that they don’t perform as
well as the authorized retailers.
Most importantly, they might not have
as many staff as the dealerships.
Related: Mercedes A0 Service
Conclusion
Mercedes is well known for being the
top in class. They put a lot of effort
into producing and finishing their car
models. Typically, major or minor
services are needed for all sorts of
rides. They need the least upkeep,
regardless of how much it costs.
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are not
exempt from this restriction either.
The Mercedes maintenance plan
includes an A3 service. It comprises
changing the oil and filters, checking
fluids, checking tires, replacing spark
plugs, and changing the cabin/pollen
filter.
However, every car has a distinct A3
service plan. It’s recommended to get
your Mercedes Benz A3 serviced
every 10 000–14 000 miles
(16 093.44 - 22 530.82 km) or every
12–15 months. The frequency of
maintenance services depends on
how frequently you drive your car.
~•~•~•~
Staying informed about the component
-s of a B Service can lead to better
maintenance and peace of mind
regarding your Mercedes’s
performance and reliability.
Cost Breakdown
Understanding the costs involved in a
Mercedes B Service helps you prepare
financially. Below is a detailed break-
down of the expenses to expect.
Parts and Labor
Parts and labor significantly influence
the overall cost of a B Service.
Typical expenses include:
● Oil and Filter Change: Essential for
engine performance, costing around
$100–$200.
● Fluid Checks and Top-offs: This may
include transmission fluid, coolant, and
brake fluid, totaling about $50–$100.
● Brake Inspection: A crucial safety
feature, often priced between $50–
$150.
● Tire Rotation: Ensures even tire
wear, costing roughly $20–$50.
● Battery Check: Necessary for
reliability, usually around $20–$30.
Labor costs vary by location and can
range from $75 to $150 per hour.
Expect the entire labor portion to run
between $150 and $300, depending on
the complexity of services performed.
Dealership vs. Independent Shops
Choosing between a dealership and an
independent shop affects the cost and
quality of service. Consider the
following points:
● Dealerships: Typically charge more
for B Service, averaging $600–$700.
They offer specialized technicians and
OEM parts. Warranty coverage from
the manufacturer may also apply.
● Independent Shops: Often provide
services at a lower rate, about $300–
$500, with a more personalized
experience. While parts may not be
OEM, quality aftermarket options exist.
Evaluate your options based on cost,
convenience, and quality of service.
Each choice has benefits depending
on your needs and priorities.
Factors Affecting Cost
Several factors influence the cost of a
B Service for your Mercedes.
Understanding these elements helps
you budget more effectively.
Vehicle Model and Year
Your vehicle’s model and year signifi-
cantly impact service costs. Newer
models often incorporate advanced
technology, which can require
specialized tools and training for
technicians. This may raise labor costs.
For instance, a 2022 Mercedes-Benz
C-Class might incur higher fees
compared to a 2015 C-Class due to the
complexity of newer systems.
Additionally, luxury models, like the
S-Class, may involve more expensive
parts and advanced services, leading
to higher overall service costs.
■ STP Engine Oil Filter P178 for Mercedes Benz 180D
$7.49 ; Part #P178 ; SKU #77383.
■ Mercedes B class
2018
1.5 diesel service and maintenance
116 HP, 260 Nm, Automatic gearbox, Front wheel
drive (FWD)
Engine oil
Engine oil capacity: 4.9 litres (5.2 quarts)
For regular oil change Mercedes B class
2018 1.5 diesel takes approx. 4.5 litres
of oil, 4.9 litres is total engine oil capacity.
Oil change interval is 10,000 km or one
year, whichever comes first.
Recommended oil type (Oil Viscosity
Classification SAE) is 5W-30, 5W-40
Air filter
Replacement interval for the air filter is
10,000 km.
After prolonged driving in particularly dusty
conditions, it is advisable to check the condition
of the air filter earlier and replace it if the filter
is visibly dirty.
Fuel filter
Mercedes B class 1.5 diesel fuel
filter replacement interval: 30,000 km
Change interval for the fuel filter in the
fuel tank is 120,000 km
Glow plugs
Glow plugs change interval is 120,000 km.
Timing belt
Manufacturers recommended timing
belt replacement interval for Mercedes B
class 1.5 diesel is 60,000 km.
The experience of Mercedes B class
owners confirms that timing belt does in
fact last for the specified mileage
sometimes lasting 100,000 km or more,
but it is recommended to carefully
monitor the condition of the timing belt
once the manufacturer's mileage has
been reached.
Running your car in aggressive environments
(e.g. salt, sand, etc.) causes timing belt to degrade
faster and reduces its lifespan; under such
conditions, the belt may need to be replaced sooner.
Serpentine (drive) belt
Mercedes B 180d serpentine or alternator belt replacement interval is 60,000 km.
Engine coolant
Engine coolant (antifreeze) recommended
replacement interval for Mercedes B
class 1.5 diesel is 90,000 km or 5 years,
whichever comes first.
Coolant capacity is 12.1 litres
More details here
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