My father and step-mother have a later model A Class, which broke down on them a few weeks ago. The AA guy diagnosed gear selection problems (it's an auto) and to get the linkage adjusted at the next service, which was due soon. Turns out - according to Mercedes - that it needed a new gearbox, which cost them over £3000. This despite only 50k miles on the clock and full Mercedes service history from new!
Mercedes refused to contribute in any way. Is this a common fault and normal behaviour by the manufacturer? I am astounded it wasn't at least repairable. Do they have any recourse, other than a stiff letter to Mercedes?
BTW, I drive a '92 Honda Accord with 204k miles on the original engine & auto box.
-- David Poyner davidbartonalpacascouk