2015 Mercedes-Benz Viano

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz Viano, also known as the Vito in some markets, is a versatile van known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and practicality. It was offered with a range of diesel engines, including the 2.1L CDI and 3.0L CDI V6. Power output varied depending on the specific engine tune. The 2.1L could be found with outputs around 136 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0L offered a more substantial 224 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the Viano’s spaciousness and suitability for carrying passengers or cargo. However, some common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the electrical systems and certain engine components. The ride quality is also sometimes criticised for being somewhat firm, especially when the vehicle is unladen.

Engine

2.1L CDI Diesel

• Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust. This can be caused by clogged or failing injectors.
  • Solution: Injector cleaning or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the engine, excessive oil consumption, engine warning light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L CDI V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, coolant contamination with oil, overheating. This is a common issue with the oil cooler seals.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and/or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Timing chain replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 7G-Tronic Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting, delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission warning light.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $5000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, compressor running constantly, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Air strut replacement, compressor replacement, or leak repair in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (per strut)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking, remote not working, alarm issues.
  • Solution: Check fuses, replace door lock actuators, repair wiring harness, or replace the central locking module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues (Diesel Models)
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, engine misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Glow plug replacement and/or glow plug control module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Mechanism Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, doors getting stuck, unusual noises. This often involves the rollers or cables.
  • Solution: Lubricate the mechanism, replace rollers or cables, or replace the entire sliding door mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Malfunctioning Power Windows
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down, slow operation, unusual noises.
  • Solution: Window regulator replacement, motor replacement, or switch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz Viano can be a practical and comfortable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine problems, particularly oil leaks and turbocharger failure on the diesel engines, can be expensive to repair. Electrical gremlins and sliding door malfunctions are also common concerns. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing a used Viano. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially major engine or transmission repairs.