2009 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado

Introduction

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado is a full-size luxury bus available in both diesel and natural gas engine options. The diesel engine is a 12.8-liter inline-6 producing 410 horsepower and 1,550 pound-feet of torque. The natural gas engine is a 12.8-liter V8 producing 380 horsepower and 1,250 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the Gran Viale Articulado have praised its powerful engines, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some have also reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle.

Engine

12.8-Liter Diesel Inline-6

• Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail, resulting in a loss of power and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Injector Failure: The fuel injectors can fail, leading to rough idling, poor acceleration, and black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per injector

12.8-Liter Natural Gas V8

• Valve Seat Recession: The valve seats can wear down prematurely, causing a loss of compression and power.
  • Solution: Replace the affected valve seats.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Ignition Coil Failure: The ignition coils can fail, resulting in misfires and poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Slipping: The transmission may slip or hesitate during gear changes.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500 - $5,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure: The air suspension system can fail, resulting in sagging or uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air bags or suspension struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Leaf Spring Breakage: The leaf springs can break, causing a rough ride and handling problems.
  • Solution: Replace the broken leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely due to a faulty alternator or other electrical components.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator or repair the electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Exterior

• Rust: The vehicle may experience premature rusting, particularly on the undercarriage and wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can develop cracks over time.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Seat Fabric Tearing: The seat fabric can tear or become damaged.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected seats.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per seat

Recalls

• NHTSA Recall Number: 19V332000 - Airbag Control Module Failure
• NHTSA Recall Number: 20V198000 - Anti-Lock Brake System Malfunction
• NHTSA Recall Number: 21V243000 - Fuel Leak Risk

Summary

While the 2009 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado is a well-regarded vehicle, it is not without its issues. Engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair, and rust is a common issue that can significantly reduce the vehicle’s lifespan. However, the severity of these issues can vary, and some owners may not experience any major problems.