2012 Mercedes-Benz Vito

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Vito is a versatile van known for its practicality and reliability, often used for commercial and personal transportation. Engine options typically included a range of diesel engines. For example, the 2.1L diesel engines produced around 114-163 horsepower and torque figures ranging from 221-265 lb-ft. Transmission options were generally a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic, depending on the engine and model variant. Owners often praised its cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and smooth ride quality, while some common complaints revolved around electrical issues and the cost of replacement parts.

Engine

2.1L Diesel Engine

• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and potential black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the number of injectors and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idling, increased emissions, check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, shuddering, delayed or harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sits lower than normal, uneven tire wear, compromised ride quality, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear springs or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises from the front suspension, imprecise steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, rough idling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plug(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Mechanism Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking or binding.
  • Solution: Lubrication, adjustment, or replacement of the sliding door rollers and mechanism components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No cold air from the A/C system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the A/C compressor and system recharge.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Seat Adjustment Mechanisms
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty adjusting seat position.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the seat adjustment mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Vito is generally a reliable vehicle, but some common issues reported by owners include problems with the injectors and EGR valve within the 2.1L diesel engine, automatic transmission issues (particularly the torque converter), suspension wear, electrical problems like door lock actuators, and A/C issues. Repair costs can range from relatively minor fixes to more substantial expenses depending on the specific issue. It’s important to inspect these areas when considering purchasing a used 2012 Vito.