2012 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, often used as a base for conversions like the Gran Viale, is a popular choice for camper vans due to its spacious interior and robust build. Engine options for this year include a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine producing around 161 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine generating approximately 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. A common dislike is the potential for expensive repairs and maintenance due to its European design. Owners appreciate the van’s reliability, cargo space, and overall driving experience.

Engine

2.1-Liter Four-Cylinder Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, warning lights on the dashboard related to the DPF, and potential for complete blockage if not addressed. Frequent short trips can exacerbate the issue.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF, replacement of the DPF if regeneration is not successful.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ depending on if DPF replacement is needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced fuel economy, and potential for engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty injectors. It’s often recommended to replace all injectors at once.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ depending on the number of injectors replaced and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-Liter V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often visible near the oil cooler housing, and potential for oil mixing with coolant.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and related gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and a whining noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at lower speeds, and potential for complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh gear changes, and potential for getting stuck in a gear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, reduced ride height, and potential for broken leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaf springs, potentially with upgraded heavy-duty versions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll during cornering.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per strut/shock.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, and potential for engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Unit Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other accessories.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Mechanism Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, excessive noise during operation, and potential for complete failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sliding door mechanism, including cables, rollers, and latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, or intermittent operation of the blower motor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Swivel Mechanism
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty swiveling the seat, getting stuck, or being loose and rattling when driving.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the swivel mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter-based Gran Viale can be a reliable and spacious camper van, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. The engine and transmission components, particularly with the diesel engines and 5-speed transmission, are prone to failures. Issues with the DPF and turbocharger can lead to costly repairs, as can electrical problems with the SAM unit. Overall, potential buyers should factor in maintenance costs and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major component failures, and the cost to fix can be anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.