2012 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale
Introduction:
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale is a luxurious sedan offered with a choice of two engine options: a 3.5L V6 and a 4.6L V8. It features a 7-speed automatic transmission and boasts a spacious cabin with premium amenities. While the Gran Viale is praised for its comfortable ride and refined interior, certain issues have been reported by owners.
Engine
- 3.5L V6
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, reduced engine performance
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling or grinding noise from engine, reduced engine performance
- Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
- 4.6L V8:
- Balance Shaft Module Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, engine noise, engine misfires
- Solution: Replace balance shaft module
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $4,000+
- Intake and Exhaust Valve Seat Recession:
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine compression, engine knocking, increased oil consumption
- Solution: Replace engine cylinder head
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $7,000+
- Balance Shaft Module Failure:
Transmission
- 7-Speed Automatic Transmission:
- Torque Converter shudder:
- Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shudder during acceleration or gear changes
- Solution: Replace torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Transmission Slip:
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, slipping gears, slow acceleration
- Solution: Repair or replace transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500 - $5,000+
- Torque Converter shudder:
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim headlights, electrical system failure
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
- Battery Discharge:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery repeatedly goes dead, electrical system malfunctions
- Solution: Diagnose and repair/replace faulty electrical components
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Panoramic Sunroof Rattle:
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noise from sunroof
- Solution: Adjust or replace sunroof components
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
- Navigation System Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen unresponsive, incorrect directions, software glitches
- Solution: Update software or replace navigation unit
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
Summary:
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale has faced some significant issues, particularly with its engines. The 3.5L V6’s intake manifold gasket and timing chain tensioner failures can lead to costly repairs. The 4.6L V8’s balance shaft module and valve seat recession issues are even more severe and expensive to resolve. The 7-speed transmission may also experience shudder and slip. Additionally, electrical problems with the alternator and battery discharge have been reported. Interior issues include a rattling sunroof and navigation system malfunctions. These issues can be a major inconvenience and financial burden for owners.