2018 Mercedes-Benz Viaggio 900
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris, known as the Viaggio 900 in some markets, is a versatile van often used for commercial and personal transportation. Engine options typically include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine producing around 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Metris for its maneuverability, fuel efficiency compared to larger vans, and cargo capacity. However, common complaints include a somewhat stiff ride, basic interior appointments, and some reported issues with reliability and electronic components.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Gasoline Engine
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the turbocharger resulting in loss of power, excessive oil consumption, and unusual noises from the engine.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between gears. This can be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or in severe cases, transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop. This can indicate a torque converter issue.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200-$2500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits noticeably lower than the front, especially when loaded. Can lead to poor handling and ride quality.
- Solution: Replacing rear springs or shocks. Airbag suspension failure (if equipped) requires airbag replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle is left sitting for a few days. Can be caused by a parasitic drain.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic drain. This may involve replacing faulty modules or wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensor) may fail, leading to engine performance issues, warning lights, and diagnostic trouble codes.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, often due to worn rollers or a faulty latch mechanism. Power sliding doors (if equipped) may experience motor or control module failures.
- Solution: Replacing the rollers, latch mechanism, or motor/control module for power doors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, often around the windshield or door seals.
- Solution: Resealing the windshield or replacing the door seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of the heating and air conditioning system, including blower motor failures, blend door actuator problems, and refrigerant leaks.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris (Viaggio 900) can have a range of issues affecting its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. The severity and cost of these issues vary significantly. Oil leaks and turbocharger problems on the engine can be expensive to address. Transmission issues like rough shifting can also lead to costly repairs. Electrical problems such as battery drains and sensor malfunctions are common. Exterior issues with sliding doors and water leaks, along with interior HVAC problems, can contribute to owner dissatisfaction. While some issues are minor, others can result in significant repair bills, making a thorough inspection before purchase highly recommended.