2009 Mercedes-Benz LO 915

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz LO 915 is a light-duty truck/bus chassis popular in Latin America and other developing markets. It was commonly equipped with the Mercedes-Benz OM 904 LA engine. This engine is a 4.3L inline-4 turbodiesel, producing around 150 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. Other engines that may have been available depending on market include the OM 906 LA, a 6.4L inline-6 turbodiesel. Transmission options typically included manual transmissions, such as the G85-6. Owners generally appreciate the LO 915 for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and robust construction. However, some dislike its relatively basic features and ride quality compared to more modern vehicles.

Engine

OM 904 LA (4.3L Inline-4 Turbodiesel)

• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, black smoke from the exhaust, poor fuel economy, and potential engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on the number of injectors replaced and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, unusual whistling or whining noises from the engine.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ (depending on whether the turbocharger is replaced or rebuilt and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found

OM 906 LA (6.4L Inline-6 Turbodiesel)

• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, black smoke, and illumination of the check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (depending on the complexity of the job and if it requires the cooler to be cleaned as well)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

G85-6 (6-Speed Manual)

• Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially between 2nd and 3rd, or grinding noises during gear changes.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the clutch linkage. If the internal gears are damaged, you may need to rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for linkage adjustment, $1500+ for transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchronizer Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting into gear, especially when the transmission is cold. This happens often with 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Transmission disassembly and replacement of worn synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$2000+ (depending on labor rates and parts costs)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, reduced ride height, and rough ride quality. Cracking or complete breakage of leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+ per spring (depending on the availability of aftermarket parts and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor handling, and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per shock (depending on the quality of the replacement parts and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights not working, gauges malfunctioning, or starting problems. Often caused by corrosion or damage to the wiring harness.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair/replacement of damaged wiring sections or the entire harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illumination, and eventual inability to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Alternator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the quality of the replacement part and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rusting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and repainting. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the severity and extent of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in vehicles exposed to high heat and sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ (depending on whether the dash is replaced or just covered)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz LO 915, while generally reliable, faces some common issues related to its engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Engine issues mainly revolve around injector and turbocharger issues for the OM 904 LA and EGR valve issues for the OM 906 LA, while transmission problems are associated with hard shifting and synchronizer wear. Suspension concerns relate to leaf spring and shock absorber wear. Electrical problems stem from wiring harness and alternator failures. Rust formation is an exterior concern, and dashboard cracking can affect the interior. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly, but addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s reliability and safety.