2005 Mercedes-Benz LO 915

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz LO 915 is a light-duty commercial truck, often used as a bus or delivery vehicle. It was typically equipped with a Mercedes-Benz OM 904 LA diesel engine. Engine options included the OM 904 LA, a 4.3L inline-4 cylinder diesel engine producing around 150 horsepower and substantial torque suitable for commercial applications. Transmission options typically included manual transmissions. Owners often appreciate the truck’s durability and reliability, particularly its robust chassis and engine. However, some dislike the relatively basic interior and somewhat dated technology compared to more modern vehicles.

Engine

OM 904 LA 4.3L Diesel

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, black smoke from exhaust, decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine, excessive black smoke, engine warning light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger inspection and replacement if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, visible leaks near the radiator, water pump, or hoses.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking components (radiator, water pump, hoses, thermostat).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Manual Transmission

• Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding gears, difficulty engaging gears, popping out of gear.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the clutch linkage, clutch disc, or synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, unusual noises when pressing the clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, rough ride, poor handling, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per axle (depending on the number of springs needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, poor handling, longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, malfunctioning gauges, or starting problems, often due to corrosion or damaged wiring.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, warning lights, dimming headlights, engine stalling.
  • Solution: Alternator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure (frame, wheel wells, lower body panels).
  • Solution: Rust removal, repair of affected areas, and rust prevention measures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity and extent of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking and warping of the dashboard due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Dashboard repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz LO 915, while generally robust, is prone to certain issues related to its age and commercial usage. Engine problems, particularly fuel injector and turbocharger issues, can be costly. Suspension wear is also common. Electrical issues related to wiring harness corrosion may arise. While rust can be a problem, it’s highly dependent on the vehicle’s usage environment and maintenance history. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage, but preventative maintenance can mitigate many of these potential problems.