2011 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado

Introduction:

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado is a large, luxury bus powered by an OM 471 LA single overhead cam inline-6 diesel engine rated at 330 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque, paired with a GPShift six-speed automatic transmission. People praise the vehicle for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful engine. However, there are a number of reported issues with the Gran Viale Articulado.

Engine

OM 471 LA I6 Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Black smoke from the exhaust, loss of power, reduced fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine hesitation, reduced performance, increased emissions.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

GPShift Six-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed shifting, slipping gears.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission control module or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: MB01-007 (Shifting Issue)

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or within a few days, even when the vehicle is off.
  • Solution: Check for faulty alternator, parasitic draw, or battery issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Short:
  • Description/Symptoms: Smoke from under the dash, burning smell, loss of electrical power.
  • Solution: Find the source of the short and repair or replace the affected wires.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Bag Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or uneven ride height, compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air bag(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+ per bag
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water droplets or fog inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight housings with properly sealed units.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Malfunctions:
  • Description/Symptoms: Black screen, unresponsive touchscreen, audio issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replace the head unit, or repair the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado has a number of reported issues, including turbocharger failure, EGR valve problems, shifting issues, electrical shorts, air bag leaks, headlight condensation, and infotainment system malfunctions. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to fix them can be significant. However, the Gran Viale Articulado remains a popular choice for luxury transportation due to its comfortable ride and spacious interior.