2017 Mercedes-Benz Viaggio 900

Introduction:

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Viaggio 900 is a luxury coach bus known for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and powerful performance. It offers various engine and transmission options, including a 12.8-liter OM471 diesel engine that delivers 430 horsepower and 2,100 lb-ft of torque. Despite its impressive qualities, the Viaggio 900 has faced some reliability concerns reported by owners.

Engine

12.8-liter OM471 Diesel Engine

• EGR Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning exhaust gas recirculation valve leads to reduced engine power, increased emissions, and Check Engine Light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace EGR valve and reprogram engine control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Faults:
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty fuel injectors cause rough idling, poor acceleration, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace failed fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per injector

Transmission

• 6-Speed ZF 6HP2000 Automatic Transmission
  • Shift Solenoid Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning shift solenoids prevent smooth gear shifts, resulting in hard or delayed shifting.
    • Solution: Replace faulty shift solenoids and reprogram transmission control unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 8-Speed ZF 8HP7000 Automatic Transmission
  • Torque Converter Shudder:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations felt during acceleration or gear changes indicate a worn torque converter.
    • Solution: Replace torque converter and transmission fluid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty compressor results in unreliable air suspension system, affecting ride height and handling.
  • Solution: Replace air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain even when the vehicle is parked, leading to a dead battery.
  • Solution: Inspect and identify the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty alternator, door modules).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
• Alternator Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Insufficient charging capacity, leading to battery discharge and vehicle electrical issues.
  • Solution: Replace alternator and test electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight assembly due to inadequate sealing.
  • Solution: Replace or reseal affected headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per headlight
• Side Mirror Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning side mirror motor prevents adjustment or folding of the side mirrors.
  • Solution: Replace the motor and control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per mirror

Interior

• Infotainment System Bugs:
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent issues with the multimedia system, including screen freezing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor malfunction leads to insufficient air flow within the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor and inspect the HVAC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Summary

While the Mercedes-Benz Viaggio 900 offers impressive features and capabilities, it has faced some reliability concerns that can impact its performance and safety. Engine and transmission issues, such as EGR valve failure and shift solenoid problems, can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues can also affect the vehicle’s handling and comfort. Additionally, interior and exterior components have experienced issues, including infotainment system bugs and side mirror motor failures. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but they can be a source of frustration for owners of this luxury coach bus.