1990 Mercedes-Benz L1319

Introduction

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz L1319 is a medium-duty truck that was produced from 1989 to 1996. The L1319 is powered by a 6.0-liter diesel engine that produces 134 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The truck is available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The L1319 has a gross vehicle weight rating of 13,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The L1319 is a popular choice for commercial applications due to its durability and reliability. However, like all vehicles, the L1319 has some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 6.0-liter Diesel Engine
  • Head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel injector failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, decreased fuel economy
    • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace the clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission bearing failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Noisy transmission, difficulty shifting gears
    • Solution: Replace the transmission bearings
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Four-speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission solenoid failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifting, no shifting
    • Solution: Replace the transmission solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension coil spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging front end, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace the coil springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension leaf spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Replace the battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No response when turning the key, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on the body panels, frame, and other metal components
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater core failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat from the heater
  • Solution: Replace the heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz L1319 is a reliable and durable truck, but it is not without its problems. The most common issues owners face are with the engine, transmission, and suspension. These issues can be expensive to fix, but they are generally not severe and can be prevented with proper maintenance. Overall, the L1319 is a good choice for commercial applications.