2016 Mercedes-Benz Viaggio 900
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz Vito/Viano (known as the Viaggio 900 in some markets) is a versatile van offered in various configurations for passenger and commercial use. Engine options typically include a range of diesel engines. For example, the 2.1L diesel produces around 136 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque in its base configuration and is generally liked for its fuel efficiency, and the available space for passengers or cargo. Dislikes often center around the base models feeling somewhat spartan compared to luxury-focused Mercedes-Benz vehicles and potential for higher repair costs associated with the brand. The most common transmission option is a 7-speed automatic.
Engine
2.1L Diesel Engine
- Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, black smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine misfires. Can sometimes result in fuel getting into the oil.
- Solution: Replace faulty injectors. It’s recommended to replace all injectors at the same time to maintain optimal balance and performance.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the number of injectors replaced and labor).
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, poor fuel economy, and the engine may enter limp mode.
- Solution: Replace the turbocharger. It’s crucial to diagnose the root cause of the failure to prevent recurrence, such as oil starvation or foreign object damage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-TRONIC (7-Speed Automatic)
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, harsh shifting, and potential stalling at low speeds.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter. It’s often recommended to flush the transmission and replace the filter during this repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement of gears, and getting stuck in a gear. Can sometimes cause the vehicle to go into limp mode.
- Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue, but this is often a temporary fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, longer time to level after start-up, and warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. Also, check for leaks in the air struts and lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Strut Leaks (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeable sagging of the vehicle on one or more corners, especially after being parked for a while. The air suspension compressor may run excessively to compensate.
- Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s). It is advisable to replace struts in pairs to ensure balanced performance.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per pair
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, or intermittently working.
- Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
- Malfunctioning Power Sliding Door (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Power sliding door failing to open or close, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
- Solution: Inspect the motor, cables, and sensors associated with the power sliding door. Replace any faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Roller Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing sliding doors, grinding noises during operation.
- Solution: Replace worn or damaged sliding door rollers. Lubricate the tracks for smoother operation.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Multimedia System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The multimedia system freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive.
- Solution: Try a software update first. If that fails, the system might need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for software. $500 - $2,000+ for system replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz Viaggio 900 can have some notable issues, particularly related to the diesel engine’s injectors and turbocharger, as well as the 7G-TRONIC transmission. Electrical gremlins, air suspension (if equipped), and sliding door mechanisms can also present problems. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, so it is important to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing and factor potential maintenance costs into the ownership experience.