2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano is a versatile van, offering a blend of practicality and luxury. Engine options vary depending on the market, but commonly include diesel engines. A popular choice is the 2.1-liter CDI diesel engine, producing around 163 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options are a 3.0L V6 Diesel engine or a gasoline engine in some countries. Owners appreciate the Viano for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and Mercedes-Benz build quality. Common criticisms include its size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and potential for higher maintenance costs compared to other vans.

Engine

2.1L CDI Diesel Engine

• Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replace faulty injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the engine bay, engine malfunction light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L CDI Diesel Engine

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, engine malfunction light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and associated components (tensioners, guides).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Automatic Transmission (Generally 5-speed or 7-speed depending on the specific model)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission getting stuck in gear, transmission malfunction light.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air suspension malfunction light.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, especially overnight, hissing sound from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500 per strut+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Issues (Electrical)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sliding door failing to open or close automatically, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sliding door motor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking, remote key not working.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the central locking control module or door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Cable Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Manual sliding door is hard to open or close and/or there is noise when opening or closing the sliding door.
  • Solution: Replace the sliding door cable assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunctions (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing correctly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano, while offering a luxurious and spacious experience, can be prone to a range of issues that can become costly to repair. The most concerning are engine and transmission problems, particularly with injectors, turbochargers, timing chains, torque converters and valve bodies, that can lead to significant repair bills. Suspension and electrical glitches, such as air suspension failures and sliding door malfunctions, also contribute to the ownership experience of higher maintenance. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.