2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
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60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG has a check engine light?

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.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps for a check engine light on a 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's diagnostic port; this tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that indicate the nature of the problem. Additionally, check the levels of vital fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also cause the check engine light to activate. It's also wise to examine the condition of the spark plugs, since worn or faulty plugs can lead to performance issues. Finally, pay attention to any other warning lights or unusual symptoms your vehicle may display, as these can provide further clues to the underlying issue. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively gather the necessary information to address the check engine light and potentially resolve the issue on your own.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can easily be checked and tightened to potentially resolve the issue. Another common problem is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to increased emissions; if you suspect this, consider using an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the issue. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can trigger the check engine light, and it's crucial to address these promptly to avoid further damage. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can also impact engine performance, so inspecting this component is advisable if you notice performance issues. Furthermore, worn-out spark plugs can lead to engine misfires, another reason for the light to activate, making regular maintenance essential. Lastly, an engine misfire can stem from various factors, including ignition system problems or fuel delivery issues, and should be investigated thoroughly. By being aware of these common problems, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving the check engine light issue in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz A35 AMG, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including diminished engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even safety hazards on the road. The sophisticated onboard diagnostics system in modern vehicles can help identify the root cause of the problem, but it’s essential to act quickly. Delaying diagnosis and repair can escalate minor issues into major, costly repairs, or even result in a breakdown. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, consider investing in an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes associated with the check engine light. This tool can provide valuable insights into the specific issues affecting your vehicle, allowing you to make informed decisions about whether to tackle the repairs yourself or seek professional help. Ultimately, addressing the check engine light without delay is vital for maintaining the performance and safety of your A35 AMG.

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