I’m a big fan of the a35, I think with aero kit it’s got massive road presence and I’d happily overlook some of the cheaper plastics in the cabin for the way it looks. I however joined the a35 Facebook group a few months ago and it completely turned me away from the a35/cla35 as it seems to be a daily occurrence asking what each different warning light is, the fix, removing batteries for 10 mins etc. Seems like some amazing tech on them but after 6 years of never touching a dealership (touch wood) and after owning and Alfa prior, I’m not willing to risk a merc and fearing what will be the next bodge to get me by for a few more weeks until another dealership visit
That doesn't sound good. An A35 AMG was on my list of possible replacements. Might have just slipped down the list a few places. No car is ever faultless, and you always get the "Built on a Friday afternoon" car, but if lots of people are having the same issue, then that's a worry.
My Golf GTI was in and out of the dealership over a period on 11 months. I'd never want that experience again. Luckily the dealership was round the corner from where I live. If this happened after I bought an A35, it's a 30 min trip each way. Then time off work etc. Recurring or constant problems certainly can put you off a brand. I'd be reluctant to buy another VW for a while. And certainly not with the dealership round the corner.