The UK Mercedes-Benz dealership will only provide 25% compensation for an A-Class paint defect. Is it reasonable?

[JetstreamJay]

Greetings, everybody!
In regards to a paint defect problem on my 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class in the UK, I would appreciate any guidance and stories from others who have been through the same thing.


After my first contact with Mercedes-Benz, they sent me to an approved body repair centre for the brand. On December 18, 2025, the vehicle had an inspection. I did not get a formal report, but the technician did tell me that the whole car had major paint problems and that the amount of degradation 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.

Following this, Mercedes-Benz UK extended an offer to contribute 25% towards the repair as a gesture of goodwill. I have previously spoken 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.

Very seldom does a high-end brand's paint deteriorate to this degree in such a short amount of time. The situation has now escalated to the point that I am contemplating taking it to The Motor Ombudsman.

I was wondering whether anybody 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 much appreciated.

[Lemmand]

The hue, tell me? A cranberry?

[JetstreamJay]

Jupiter red, that is. Scatter microblisters throughout the vehicle

[MuffinClaw]

Unfortunately, this is a typical problem with MBs that have solid red paint.

According to other users, MB has said that their new paint guarantee is for 6 years. Unfortunately, I couldn't locate this information in writing.


It is not guaranteed, but some members were successful in getting MB to provide a free bare-metal respray (excluding bumpers and other plastic trim components).

I can only assume 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.

[JetstreamJay]

It would be very unfair to sell the vehicle in its current state. 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 indicated. Indeed, the plastic components are not repainted.

However, I will not budge from this issue; I want to pursue legal action, ombudsman. 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.

[Lemmand]

Apologies for the paint problem.

This is an issue that far too many people have with the solid red Mercedes paint, as @MuffinClaw pointed out. Surprisingly, the micro-blistering doesn't impact the vast majority of automobiles, but when it does, it seems to harm every single metal panel.


If I were 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 next file a complaint with the Motor Ombudsman and hope for a positive resolution.

The legal process is expected to be lengthy and expensive, as Mercedes-Benz UK is known for fiercely fighting 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.

[MuffinClaw]

I would strongly advise you to begin by obtaining a written copy of the warranty terms and conditions (e.g., a PDF download link). T&Cs will be in writing even for a Goodwill warranty.

The next thing I'd do is get the paint warranty paperwork; I'm sure it's there.


In my experience, MB is not forthcoming with this information; instead, customers are told various things when they ask about the warranty, and this is all done orally.

[EchoTrail]

As a guarantee, good will does not expire once a certain amount of time has passed. To give credit where credit is due is the essence of good will. It seems like you're far 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. They were not required by law to make any kind of offer, and I'm not even claiming it's fair, considering that it's been eight years.