2013 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale, more commonly known as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, is a versatile van popular for both commercial and recreational use. For the 2013 model year, it typically came equipped with a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine or a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, both paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 2.1L produced around 161 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque while the 3.0L produced around 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the Sprinter for its spacious interior, high roof, and fuel efficiency compared to other vans in its class. Some common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as some reliability concerns specific to certain components.

Engine

2.1L Four-Cylinder Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging of the DPF, leading to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential warning lights on the dashboard. Frequent regeneration cycles may also occur.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, cleaning of the DPF, or replacement of the DPF if severely clogged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, causing rough idling, poor acceleration, and engine stalling. The check engine light may also illuminate.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the oil cooler, often dripping onto other engine components. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and associated seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the turbocharger, resulting in a significant loss of power, increased exhaust smoke, and potential engine damage. Whining noises from the turbocharger may also be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Complete failure may result in the vehicle being unable to move.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement of gears, and harsh shifts. The transmission may also slip or fail to shift altogether.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging, especially when loaded, and potential cracking or breaking of the leaf springs. This can lead to poor ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold weather. The check engine light may also illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, sensors, or other electronic components. Corrosion and chafing of the wiring harness are common causes.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, due to worn rollers, damaged tracks, or malfunctioning latches.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sliding door components, such as rollers, tracks, and latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The heating and air conditioning blower motor stops working, resulting in no airflow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Swivel Mechanism Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty swiveling the front seats, due to worn or damaged components in the swivel mechanism.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the swivel mechanism parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter can experience several issues, ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. The DPF, oil cooler, turbocharger, torque converter, and valve body are among the most common components to fail, potentially leading to costly repairs. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to address, others can require substantial investment, so a thorough inspection before purchase is advised.