2009 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado is a high-capacity articulated bus designed for urban transport. It was primarily available with a Mercedes-Benz OM 457 hLA diesel engine, typically producing around 220 kW (295 hp) and significant torque suited for hauling heavy loads. While appreciated for its passenger capacity and reliability in public transit applications, some owners and operators have reported specific issues. Common likes include its durability and efficiency in high-volume routes, while dislikes often center around maintenance costs and the complexity of its systems.

Engine

Mercedes-Benz OM 457 hLA Diesel

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, rough idling, black smoke from the exhaust, difficulty starting. This is often due to wear and tear or contamination of fuel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injectors. Cleaning the fuel system and using high-quality fuel filters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, visible leaks around the radiator, hoses, or water pump.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking components such as radiator, hoses, water pump, or thermostat housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF Automatic Transmission (Specific Model Varies by Configuration)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, erratic shifting patterns, or harsh jolts between gears. Could be due to worn clutch packs or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ depending on severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling at low speeds, shuddering during acceleration, and unusual noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, failure to maintain proper ride height, error messages on the control panel, hissing sounds indicating air leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking air bags, height sensors, or the air compressor. Repairing or replacing damaged air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ per air spring/component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks and Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor handling, and increased body roll.
  • Solution: Replacement of shocks and struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per shock/strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Multiplex Wiring Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failures of various electrical components, such as lighting, door controls, or instrument panel displays.
  • Solution: Diagnostic troubleshooting to locate and repair damaged wiring harnesses or faulty control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the problem.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings or failure of various systems due to faulty sensors (e.g., ABS, temperature sensors, etc.).
  • Solution: Identification and replacement of the defective sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ per sensor, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Mechanism Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing doors, malfunctioning door interlocks, and air leaks around door seals.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of door actuators, hinges, and locking mechanisms. Replacing worn door seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent heating or cooling, blower motor failures, and refrigerant leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the HVAC compressor, blower motor, or leaking components. Recharging the refrigerant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2009 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado, while a workhorse for urban transportation, experiences typical issues associated with heavy-duty vehicles. Engine issues such as fuel injector problems and cooling system leaks can be costly. Transmission issues, particularly slipping or harsh shifting, demand attention. Suspension malfunctions, mostly related to the air suspension system, affect ride quality and safety. Electrical issues with the multiplex wiring and faulty sensors lead to component failures. Lastly, door mechanism failures and HVAC problems cause inconvenience. Overall, the severity and cost of repairs can be substantial, requiring preventative maintenance and attention.