2014 Mercedes-Benz Viale BRT

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano BRT, also known as the Vito in some markets, is a versatile van popular for its spaciousness and passenger capacity. While offered with various diesel engine options, this report focuses on the most commonly reported issues. Owners often praise its ride comfort and utility but express concerns about reliability and repair costs. Engine options can include various turbocharged diesel engines offering power in the range of 136 hp to 224 hp and torque figures between 243 lb-ft and 369 lb-ft, depending on the specific variant. Transmission choices are typically either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic.

Engine

2.1L Diesel Engine

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, engine misfires, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injector(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the engine, excessive oil consumption, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning light illuminated.
  • Solution: DPF regeneration (forced or passive) or DPF replacement if regeneration is not possible.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (regeneration) - $2000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, transmission slipping out of gear, erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, a rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky gear changes, particularly between certain gears.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). Valve body repair or replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid top-up) - $1500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running constantly, suspension warning light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per strut, $500 - $1000+ for compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Central Locking System
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, remote key failing to operate, alarm system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Check fuses and wiring. Diagnose and replace faulty door lock actuators or central locking control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, engine misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, noisy operation, door jamming.
  • Solution: Lubricate door tracks and rollers. Adjust door alignment. Replace worn or damaged rollers or door latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Malfunctioning Power Windows
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not opening or closing, slow operation, window motor failure.
  • Solution: Check fuses and wiring. Replace faulty window motor or window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano BRT, while offering practicality and comfort, can be prone to some potentially expensive issues. The most concerning relate to the engine (fuel injectors, turbocharger, DPF) and transmission, especially the automatic variant. Suspension issues, specifically with the air suspension (if equipped), can also be costly to repair. Electrical and interior issues, while less frequent, can still add to the overall maintenance burden. Potential buyers should carefully inspect these areas and factor in the potential repair costs when considering a purchase. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying significantly depending on the specific problem.