2014 Mercedes-Benz Viaggio 900
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano 900, also known as the Metris or Vito in some markets, is a versatile van often used for both commercial and passenger transport. Engine options generally include a range of gasoline and diesel engines depending on the market. Common gasoline options include a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing approximately 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Diesel engine options often consist of a 2.1L four-cylinder producing varying outputs based on the tune. Both engines were commonly paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Viano/Metris/Vito for its practicality, spaciousness, and Mercedes-Benz build quality, while common dislikes include its relatively basic interior compared to Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, potential for higher running costs, and some market-specific reliability issues.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (Gasoline)
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, check engine light illumination, whistling sound from the engine bay, excessive oil consumption.
- Solution: Replace the turbocharger unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, difficulty starting, stalling, check engine light.
- Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
2.1L Turbocharged Inline-4 (Diesel)
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning light, potential limp mode.
- Solution: Attempt DPF regeneration (either forced regeneration or driving at higher speeds). If regeneration fails, the DPF may need to be cleaned or replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (cleaning) / $1,500 - $3,000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Injectors
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, excessive smoke, reduced fuel economy, check engine light.
- Solution: Replace faulty injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per injector (parts and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission getting stuck in gear, fault codes related to valve body solenoids.
- Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. Flushing the transmission may temporarily alleviate the issue in some cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling when coming to a stop, abnormal noises from the transmission, poor fuel economy.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side or sitting lower than normal, hissing sound from the rear suspension, air compressor running frequently.
- Solution: Locate and repair air leaks (often at the air springs or air lines). Replace faulty air springs or the air compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per air spring / $800 - $2,000+ for the compressor
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Sliding Door Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Sliding doors not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, making unusual noises, or showing error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Check and repair the sliding door motor, wiring harness, and door sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Window Regulators
- Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down, slow or erratic window movement, clicking noises from the door panel.
- Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $600 per window
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair by a specialized shop
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2,000
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Track Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, grinding or binding noises, visible damage to the door tracks.
- Solution: Clean and lubricate the door tracks. Repair or replace damaged track components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano/Metris/Vito can be a practical and spacious vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, such as turbocharger or HPFP failures (gasoline) or DPF clogging and injector faults (diesel), can lead to significant repair costs. Transmission issues, particularly valve body and torque converter problems in the 7G-Tronic automatic, are also notable. Suspension and electrical malfunctions, especially related to sliding doors and window regulators, add to the potential for higher maintenance expenses. The severity of these issues ranges from moderate inconvenience to potentially expensive repairs, with costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific problem and its complexity. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection and maintenance history review before making a purchase.