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Greetings, all!
As a UK resident, I am in need of some guidance and first-hand accounts from others who have dealt with a paint defect issue on a 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
After I got in touch with Mercedes-Benz, they sent me to an authorised body shop that specialises in automobile repairs. On December 18, 2025, the vehicle had an inspection. I did not receive a formal report, but the technician did tell me that the entire vehicle has major paint problems and that the level of deterioration is not usual for the vehicle's age. I was also told that the results will be shared with Mercedes-Benz UK and that the decision for any kind of goodwill repair would be made by corporate.
Mercedes-Benz UK then extended an offer of a 25% goodwill contribution towards the repair. I have previously communicated with customer support and submitted a formal written appeal over this offer. I am of the opinion that it is unreasonable considering the seriousness of the issue, the vehicle's age, and the fact that an Approved repairer conducted the inspection.
Paint damage of this severity in such a short time is very unusual, particularly for a high-end brand. The situation has now escalated to the point where I am contemplating taking it to The Motor Ombudsman.
I was wondering whether anyone in the UK has dealt with a same paint problem with a Mercedes.
Should I try to get a larger contribution, or do you think a 25% goodwill offer is reasonable here?
Anything you can tell me would be greatly appreciated.
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The UK Mercedes-Benz dealership will only provide 25% compensation for an A-Class paint defect. Is it reasonable?
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ThomasWhited
- Posts: 42
- Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:42 pm
That colour is called Jupiter red. Scatter microblisters across the vehicle
Bad news: MBs with solid red paint are prone to this problem frequently.
According to other users, MB has stated that their new paint warranty is for 6 years. Unfortunately, I couldn't find this information in writing.
It is not guaranteed, but some members were successful in getting MB to offer a free bare-metal respray (excluding bumpers and other plastic trim components).
I can only imagine that selling the automobile in its present state would result in a substantial loss; if MB is unsuccessful, you may pursue other legal options, such as the courts or the ombudsman.
According to other users, MB has stated that their new paint warranty is for 6 years. Unfortunately, I couldn't find this information in writing.
It is not guaranteed, but some members were successful in getting MB to offer a free bare-metal respray (excluding bumpers and other plastic trim components).
I can only imagine that selling the automobile in its present state would result in a substantial loss; if MB is unsuccessful, you may pursue other legal options, such as the courts or the ombudsman.
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ThomasWhited
- Posts: 42
- Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:42 pm
Selling the car in its current state is absolutely unfair. It was confirmed by the individual who examined my car as well. Warranty (or, more accurately, goodwill) coverage is available for up to ten years, as they mentioned. Indeed, the plastic components are not repainted.
The ombudsman may be sure that I will not abandon this case; I want to pursue legal action. Please refrain from contacting the ombudsman until we have discussed your request, they told me when I spoke with them today. From what I've heard today, this is the case.
The ombudsman may be sure that I will not abandon this case; I want to pursue legal action. Please refrain from contacting the ombudsman until we have discussed your request, they told me when I spoke with them today. From what I've heard today, this is the case.
This paint problem is my apologies.
Having said that, this is an issue that many people have with the solid red Mercedes paint. Surprisingly, the micro-blistering doesn't impact the vast majority of cars, but when it does, it seems to affect every single metal panel.
In your shoes, I'd try to get Mercedes-Benz to pay for a complete bare metal respray first. If they disagree, you'll have to make up your own mind about whether or not to accept their offer. I would then file a complaint with the Motor Ombudsman and hope for a positive resolution.
The legal procedure is expected to be lengthy and expensive, as Mercedes-Benz UK is known for fiercely defending accusations. I hope that won't be the case.
Wishing you the best of success with your claim. Please keep us updated on its progress.
Having said that, this is an issue that many people have with the solid red Mercedes paint. Surprisingly, the micro-blistering doesn't impact the vast majority of cars, but when it does, it seems to affect every single metal panel.
In your shoes, I'd try to get Mercedes-Benz to pay for a complete bare metal respray first. If they disagree, you'll have to make up your own mind about whether or not to accept their offer. I would then file a complaint with the Motor Ombudsman and hope for a positive resolution.
The legal procedure is expected to be lengthy and expensive, as Mercedes-Benz UK is known for fiercely defending accusations. I hope that won't be the case.
Wishing you the best of success with your claim. Please keep us updated on its progress.
Here is where you should begin: by insisting on receiving the warranty terms and conditions in writing (e.g., a link to download a PDF etc.). T&Cs will be in writing even for a Goodwill warranty.
Then, I'd enquire about the paint warranty; I'm sure there must be some paperwork concerning it.
My experience has been that MB is not forthcoming with this information; instead, customers are told various things about the warranty through verbal communication.
Then, I'd enquire about the paint warranty; I'm sure there must be some paperwork concerning it.
My experience has been that MB is not forthcoming with this information; instead, customers are told various things about the warranty through verbal communication.
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LiamTheGreat
- Posts: 79
- Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:35 pm
Good will is a warranty that does not have a set expiration date. To give credit where credit is due is the essence of good will. It seems like you're well beyond the coverage of the new car limited warranty, which usually covers paint defects for three years or up to 36,000-50,000 miles on a Mercedes-Benz of that age. Just because it's eight years old doesn't mean they had to give anything legally. I'm not suggesting it's logical, either.