2008 Mercedes-Benz O500

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz O500 is a popular chassis used for buses and coaches. Engine options typically include a range of diesel engines, with the OM 457 LA being a common choice. The OM 457 LA is a 12.0-liter inline-6 turbo diesel engine, producing around 360 horsepower and 1180 lb-ft of torque, although output can vary depending on configuration. Transmission options include automatic and manual gearboxes from manufacturers like ZF and Voith. Owners often praise the O500 for its robust build quality, reliability, and comfortable ride. However, some common complaints include maintenance costs, availability of specific parts in certain regions, and potential issues related to the air suspension system.

Engine

OM 457 LA (12.0L Inline-6 Turbo Diesel)

• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, black smoke from the exhaust, reduced power, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace faulty injectors. Recoding of the new injectors is also needed for proper function.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black or blue smoke, whining noises from the turbocharger, increased oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ (depending on turbocharger type and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible coolant leaks around the engine, low coolant warning light.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak (e.g., hoses, water pump, radiator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the severity and location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF Automatic Transmission (Specific Model Number Varies)

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, delayed engagement, rough shifting.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement, transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, stalling, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Voith Automatic Transmission (Specific Model Number Varies)

• Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay when shifting between gears, especially from a standstill.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid service, valve body repair/replacement, or software update.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bus leaning to one side, compressor running constantly, failure to maintain ride height.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air springs, air lines, or height sensors. Inspect and repair the compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ per air spring (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace worn shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per shock absorber (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard, inaccurate readings, potential engine performance issues. Common culprits include ABS sensors, speed sensors, and temperature sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ per sensor (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, short circuits, failure of various components.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Formation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust appearing around wheel wells, undercarriage, and other exposed areas. Particularly prevalent in regions with harsh winters and road salt use.
  • Solution: Rust removal, body panel repair, and rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+ (depending on the severity of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the air conditioning or heating system, weak airflow, unusual noises from the blower motor.
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty components such as the compressor, blower motor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the component needing repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz O500, particularly models equipped with the OM 457 LA engine and ZF/Voith automatic transmissions, can experience issues ranging from relatively minor sensor failures to more substantial engine and transmission problems. Suspension system leaks are also a common concern. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, particularly those involving the engine, transmission, or air suspension. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to significant operational disruptions.