Mercedes-Benz A220 Has Rough Idle

Diagnosing the Causes of Rough Idle in Your Mercedes-Benz A220 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Mercedes-Benz A220 has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Mercedes-Benz A220 has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz A220

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz A220, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by inspecting for a vacuum leak, as this is a common and easily overlooked issue that can significantly affect engine performance. Next, check the condition of the spark plugs; worn or faulty plugs can disrupt the ignition process, leading to an uneven idle. If the spark plugs appear fine, move on to the ignition coil, as a malfunctioning coil can also cause similar symptoms. Additionally, consider the air conditioning compressor; if it’s slipping excessively, it may impact the engine's idle quality. Don’t forget to examine the fuel injectors, especially if the rough idle occurs when the engine is cold, as clogged or malfunctioning injectors can hinder fuel delivery. Lastly, inspect the rubber hoses connected to the intake, as replacing worn hoses can often resolve idle issues. If all these components check out, you may need to investigate deeper into the engine, such as assessing the piston rings for wear. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of the rough idle in your A220, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

What Are the Common Causes of Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz A220?

When diagnosing a rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz A220, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting your vehicle's performance. One of the most frequent issues is a vacuum leak, which can lead to poor acceleration and misfires, indicating that air is entering the engine improperly. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can disrupt the ignition process, contributing to an uneven idle. Ignition coil problems are another critical factor; if these coils are malfunctioning, you may notice a check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, and difficulty starting the engine. The air-fuel mixture is also vital; an imbalance can cause engine misfires, resulting in rough idling. Furthermore, a defective idle control valve may lead to fluctuating idle speeds, particularly noticeable during startup. Lastly, external influences such as faulty components or irregular air-fuel mixtures can exacerbate these issues. By understanding these common causes, you can take the necessary steps to troubleshoot and resolve rough idle problems, ensuring your A220 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How to Diagnose and Fix Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz A220?

When dealing with a rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz A220, it’s crucial to act swiftly, as neglecting these symptoms can lead to more severe engine problems and safety risks. A rough idle often indicates underlying issues such as vacuum leaks, worn spark plugs, or malfunctioning ignition coils, which, if left unaddressed, can result in decreased engine performance and increased repair costs. Additionally, a dirty throttle body or faulty fuel injectors can disrupt the engine's airflow and fuel delivery, exacerbating the problem. Using an OBDII scanner to check for error codes can provide valuable insights into the specific issues at hand. By diagnosing and fixing these problems early, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also ensure a safer driving experience. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritize these checks and repairs to maintain the reliability of your A220.

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Mercedes-Benz A220 Rough Idle: Causes & Repairs | RepairPal